Oregon City Implements Grease Trap Ordinance to Combat FOG in Sewers

A city in Oregon has taken a significant step to protect its sewer system by passing an ordinance that requires businesses to install grease traps to prevent fats, oils, and grease (commonly referred to as FOG) from entering the sewage system.

The city council unanimously approved the measure aiming to address a persistent problem that has been causing damage and potential health hazards in the community.

FOG is a major issue for sewer systems because, once the warm substances enter the colder environment of the sewer mains, they solidify and begin to create blockages. These blockages can lead to damage within the sewer infrastructure and may cause sewage overflows onto public streets or even into homes elsewhere in the city.

The assistant city manager highlighted particular concerns in the downtown core area, which has been experiencing recurring problems due to FOG accumulation.

“We have identified certain hotspots where the issue is most severe,” the assistant city manager explained. “In one notable incident a few years ago, sewage was flowing in the gutter of the street in front of the post office, downstream from several restaurants.” This example underscores the urgency and necessity of the new ordinance.

To address the problem proactively, the assistant city manager hosted two open houses to explain the new regulations to local restaurant owners and operators in the most affected areas.

The ordinance mandates that commercial businesses likely to discharge FOG must obtain a permit through the city and are required to install and maintain grease traps and interceptors.

This requirement applies to approximately 60 to 80 businesses, including establishments such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and car washes.

The primary goal of the ordinance is to encourage entities contributing to the FOG issue to modify their practices, ensuring that grease is managed appropriately and does not impact other water sources or community members.

By holding these businesses accountable, the city aims to protect public health and reduce the environmental impact caused by improper grease disposal.

In addition to improving the sewer system’s functionality, the ordinance also has financial implications. The city will charge commercial users $3.62 per month for the permit, which will generate an estimated $2,600 to $3,500 annually.

Currently, the city dedicates two sewer workers and equipment to cleaning problematic sewer lines for two weeks each month, costing approximately $149,000 per year.

With this new FOG program in place, the amount of necessary cleaning may be reduced by 30%, resulting in an annual savings of around $44,000 for the sewer department.

The new local law is set to go into effect in 2025. Businesses are required to obtain a permit must do so within 60 days after the ordinance’s adoption. The city is committed to working with local businesses during this transition period to ensure a smooth implementation of the new regulations.

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This proactive approach by the city serves as a model for how municipalities can address infrastructure challenges by collaborating with the community and enforcing regulations that benefit both the environment and public health.

By tackling the FOG problem head-on, the city is taking meaningful steps to preserve its sewer system and prevent future issues that could affect residents and businesses alike.

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