What are the grease trap requirements in Knoxville, TN?

Food service establishments in Knoxville 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 Knoxville?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Knoxville. Fee: 125.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Grease traps: 20-100 gallons; grease interceptors: 1,500 or 2,000 gallons (determined by KUB based on facility). Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Knoxville, TN

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Knoxville, Tennessee. Serving 1,081 food service establishments.

Minimum quarterly

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Minimum quarterly; frequency determined by KUB inspectors

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee 125

Max Fine 10000

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Grease traps: 20-100 gallons; grease interceptors: 1,500 or 2,000 gallons (determined by KUB based on facility)
Pumping Frequency	Minimum quarterly; frequency determined by KUB inspectors
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	125
Maximum Fine	10000
Inspections	Periodic inspections by KUB; plumbing inspector follow-up before opening
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	KUB Wastewater Rules and Regulations (Resolution 1347); Grease Control Program; Appendix D (Enforcement Response Guide-Grease Program)
Authority	Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB)

Additional Notes

Standard Grease Control Program permit fee is $125/year. KUB determines type and size of grease control equipment based on facility. Pumping manifests and cleaning logs spanning previous 24 months must be kept on site. Civil penalty up to $10,000 per offense for non-compliance. Plumbing permit required for installation.

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