What are the grease trap requirements in McAllen, TX?

Food service establishments in McAllen 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 McAllen?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in McAllen. Fee: $10-$100 (city hall permits for grease trap services).

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per TCEQ model standards and McAllen Public Utility policy. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
McAllen, TX

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

Per McAllen Public Utility Pre

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Per McAllen Public Utility Pretreatment/Grease Trap Facilities Policy schedule

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee $10-$100 (city hall permits for grease trap services)

Max Fine Unknown - users liable for costs of any POTW damage caused by trap neglect/malfunction

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per TCEQ model standards and McAllen Public Utility policy
Pumping Frequency	Per McAllen Public Utility Pretreatment/Grease Trap Facilities Policy schedule
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	$10-$100 (city hall permits for grease trap services)
Maximum Fine	Unknown - users liable for costs of any POTW damage caused by trap neglect/malfunction
Inspections	Periodic per pretreatment program requirements
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	McAllen Municipal Code Chapter 106, Article IV, Division 3 (Pretreatment and Sewer Use); McAllen Public Utility Pretreatment/Grease Trap Facilities Policy
Authority	City of McAllen Public Utility / General Manager

Additional Notes

Blocking or interfering with a grease trap is a criminal offense. Biological grease treatment products (bacteria/enzymes) prohibited without written consent of control authority. Users financially responsible for any POTW damage from trap neglect.

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