Grease Trap Requirements
Pittsburgh, PA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Serving 3,243 food service establishments.

Maximum every 90 days
Pumping Freq.
Required
Permit
Yes
25% Rule
IPC
Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Maximum every 90 days; per PA IPC Chapter 10 requirements
25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Complete FOG Regulations

Pumping Frequency Maximum every 90 days; per PA IPC Chapter 10 requirements
25% Rule Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required Yes
Record Keeping Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref. City of Pittsburgh Code of Ordinances; Pennsylvania Plumbing Code (IPC adoption); Allegheny County Plumbing Code Chapter 10
Authority Pittsburgh Water (formerly PWSA); City of Pittsburgh Department of Permits, Licenses and Inspections; ALCOSAN

Additional Notes

Pittsburgh sends wastewater to ALCOSAN for treatment. Pennsylvania adopted the IPC, which requires grease interceptors or automatic grease removal devices for food preparation areas. Allegheny County has adopted the 2022 Plumbing Code based on IPC. Grease interceptors must be sized per PDI G101 or ASME A112.14.3. Some local PA jurisdictions require minimum 1,000-gallon interceptors. Pittsburgh Water manages sewer system operations.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.

Contact Information

Phone (412) 687-2243

Allegheny County Health Department: (412) 687-2243 (ACHD)

Official Sources

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