What are the grease trap requirements in Chesapeake, VA?

Food service establishments in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Chesapeake. Fee: Per city plumbing permit fee schedule.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code / IPC sizing standards. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Chesapeake, VA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Chesapeake, Virginia.

Regular pumping before FOG/sol

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Regular pumping before FOG/solids exceed 25%; typically quarterly

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Per city plumbing permit fee schedule

Max Fine Per Chapter 78 Utilities violation penalties

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code / IPC sizing standards
Pumping Frequency	Regular pumping before FOG/solids exceed 25%; typically quarterly
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Per city plumbing permit fee schedule
Maximum Fine	Per Chapter 78 Utilities violation penalties
Inspections	Periodic inspections per Hampton Roads regional standards
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Chesapeake Code of Ordinances Chapter 78 (Utilities); Hampton Roads Regional Technical Standards
Authority	City of Chesapeake Department of Public Utilities / Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD)

Additional Notes

Part of Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC) region. HRPDC FOG Technical Committee created regional technical standards for grease control device sizing. Virginia adopts USBC which references IPC. Certified grease haulers required.

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