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Grease interceptor / grease trap compliance: New York City restaurant guide

NYC DEP

What it is

Kitchens discharging fats, oils and grease must install and maintain a properly sized grease interceptor to protect the sewer system.

When a restaurant needs it

Any kitchen producing FOG (fats / oils / grease) discharge — restaurants, cafeterias, delis and similar.

How to apply

Designed and installed by a Licensed Master Plumber under a DOB plumbing filing; DEP sets and enforces the discharge rules.

Documents you’ll need

Fee
No permit fee — installation cost only
Processing time
Within construction
Renewal
Ongoing maintenance & cleaning logs
Who files
Installed by a Licensed Master Plumber.

Good to know

Only licensed plumbers may install interceptors. Food-waste disposers are prohibited in NYC commercial establishments, and DEP penalties can reach $10,000 per day per violation.

Official source

DEP — grease rules for businesses

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.