What are the grease trap requirements in Vancouver, WA?

Food service establishments in Vancouver must install and maintain grease traps or interceptors per local FOG ordinances. The city follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).

Do I need a grease trap permit in Vancouver?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Vancouver. Fee: Not publicly listed; contact City of Vancouver Public Works.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per Washington State UPC / manufacturer specifications; size determined by anticipated conditions of use. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Vancouver, WA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Vancouver, Washington.

As needed to prevent FOG disch

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

UPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency As needed to prevent FOG discharge violations; maintenance logs required for previous 12 months

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Not publicly listed; contact City of Vancouver Public Works

Max Fine $10,000 per violation per day (VMC 14.10.540)

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per Washington State UPC / manufacturer specifications; size determined by anticipated conditions of use
Pumping Frequency	As needed to prevent FOG discharge violations; maintenance logs required for previous 12 months
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Not publicly listed; contact City of Vancouver Public Works
Maximum Fine	$10,000 per violation per day (VMC 14.10.540)
Inspections	Routine inspections by city; frequency based on compliance status
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Vancouver Municipal Code Chapter 14.10 (Wastewater Discharge); VMC 14.10.050 (Prohibited Discharge Standards); VMC 14.10.540 (Administrative Fines)
Authority	City of Vancouver Public Works / Wastewater Division

Additional Notes

FOG concentrations exceeding 50 mg/L total petroleum hydrocarbon are prohibited. Fines assessed per-violation per-day basis. Emergency response and investigation costs may be added to fines. Washington state uses UPC 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.