What are the grease trap requirements in Brownsville, TX?

Food service establishments in Brownsville 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 Brownsville?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Brownsville. Fee: Contact Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) Pretreatment Manager.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. 50 gallons minimum for grease traps (only for expansions/renovations where no space available; must be pre-approved by BPUB Pretreatment Manager). Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Brownsville, TX

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Brownsville, Texas.

As needed to maintain efficien

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency As needed to maintain efficiency and prevent visible grease in discharge; per TCEQ model standards every 90 days recommended

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Contact Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) Pretreatment Manager

Max Fine Per city code and TCEQ enforcement; contact BPUB for schedule

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	50 gallons minimum for grease traps (only for expansions/renovations where no space available; must be pre-approved by BPUB Pretreatment Manager)
Pumping Frequency	As needed to maintain efficiency and prevent visible grease in discharge; per TCEQ model standards every 90 days recommended
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Contact Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) Pretreatment Manager
Maximum Fine	Per city code and TCEQ enforcement; contact BPUB for schedule
Inspections	Inspections by BPUB Pretreatment program
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Brownsville FOG Ordinance (BPUB); Brownsville Code of Ordinances Chapter 102 (Utilities); TCEQ Model Standards for Grease Management (HB 1979)
Authority	Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB)

Additional Notes

Use of enzymes, surfactants, solvents, and emulsifiers is prohibited. Compliance costs are responsibility of property owner and lessees. Texas adopted IPC as base plumbing code.

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