What are the grease trap requirements in El Paso, TX?

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

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. 750 gallons (gravity interceptor); smaller point-of-use units sized per fixture count and flow rate. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
El Paso, TX

Q: Do I need a grease trap permit in El Paso?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in El Paso. Fee: No separate FOG permit fee published; covered under wastewater discharge permit.

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in El Paso, Texas. Serving 1,814 food service establishments.

Minimum every 90 days

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Minimum every 90 days; more frequently if 25% rule is triggered

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee No separate FOG permit fee published; covered under wastewater discharge permit

Max Fine $2,000 per violation per day

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	750 gallons (gravity interceptor); smaller point-of-use units sized per fixture count and flow rate
Pumping Frequency	Minimum every 90 days; more frequently if 25% rule is triggered
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	No separate FOG permit fee published; covered under wastewater discharge permit
Maximum Fine	$2,000 per violation per day
Inspections	At least annually; high-risk facilities inspected more frequently
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	El Paso Water Rules & Regulations, Chapter 15 - Management of Fats, Oils, and Grease
Authority	El Paso Water (EPWater) - Wastewater Pretreatment Division

Additional Notes

Texas cities follow IPC-based state plumbing code. El Paso Water requires all food service establishments (FSEs) to install and maintain grease interceptors. Gravity interceptors must be pumped on a schedule that prevents FOG accumulation above 25% of wetted depth. Manifest records for hauling must be retained for 3 years. Contact: (915) 594-5500 or customer.service@epwater.org

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