What are the grease trap requirements in Memphis, TN?

Food service establishments in Memphis 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 Memphis?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Memphis. Fee: No separate annual FOG permit fee published; covered under sewer use permit.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. 1,000 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical units sized per flow rate (minimum 20 GPM). Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Memphis, TN

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Memphis, Tennessee. Serving 1,819 food service establishments.

Every 90 days minimum

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Every 90 days minimum; or when FOG and solids reach 25% of capacity

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee No separate annual FOG permit fee published; covered under sewer use permit

Max Fine $10,000 per violation per day; repeat offenders subject to sewer disconnection

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	1,000 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical units sized per flow rate (minimum 20 GPM)
Pumping Frequency	Every 90 days minimum; or when FOG and solids reach 25% of capacity
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	No separate annual FOG permit fee published; covered under sewer use permit
Maximum Fine	$10,000 per violation per day; repeat offenders subject to sewer disconnection
Inspections	Annual inspections; complaint-driven inspections as needed
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Memphis City Code, Title 23 - Public Works, Section 3 - Sewer Use Ordinance; FOG Management Program provisions
Authority	City of Memphis Public Works Department - Stormwater & FOG Program

Additional Notes

Tennessee follows IPC-based state plumbing code. The Memphis FOG Management Program investigates FOG-related SSOs and requires all food service establishments to install appropriately sized interceptors. Grease hauler manifests must be retained. The program will investigate complaints and can require corrective action. Contact: (901) 636-6762 or pubworks@memphistn.gov

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