What are the grease trap requirements in Charleston, SC?

Food service establishments in Charleston must install and maintain grease traps or interceptors per local FOG ordinances. The city follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC).

Do I need a grease trap permit in Charleston?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Charleston. Fee: $30 Grease Trap Origination Fee (non-refundable, non-transferable).

What size grease trap do I need for my restaurant in Charleston?

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per Charleston Water System sizing method (based on flow rate to meet 100 mg/L discharge limit). Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Charleston, SC

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Charleston, South Carolina. Serving 1,423 food service establishments.

Quarterly minimum (at least 4

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Quarterly minimum (at least 4 times per year), or more per CWS Inspector determination

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee $30 Grease Trap Origination Fee (non-refundable, non-transferable)

Max Fine Unknown - costly enforcement actions for exceeding 100 mg/L discharge limit

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per Charleston Water System sizing method (based on flow rate to meet 100 mg/L discharge limit)
Pumping Frequency	Quarterly minimum (at least 4 times per year), or more per CWS Inspector determination
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	$30 Grease Trap Origination Fee (non-refundable, non-transferable)
Maximum Fine	Unknown - costly enforcement actions for exceeding 100 mg/L discharge limit
Inspections	Periodic inspections by Charleston Water System; post-installation inspection required
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Charleston Water System Grease Trap Requirements; South Carolina Plumbing Code Chapter 10
Authority	Charleston Water System (CWS) Wastewater Collection Department

Additional Notes

Grease Trap/Interceptor Application Form must be submitted with plans, specifications, plumbing diagrams, and riser diagrams. Approval letter required before installation. Discharge concentration limit of 100 mg/L FOG. Maintenance log required.

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