What is FOG?
FOG stands for Fats, Oils, and Grease. Did you know that pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain or garbage disposal creates obstructions in underground pipes and creates serious problems like blockages and sewer overflows? In fact, FOG is one of the leading causes of sewer overflows and blockages in the United States.
When washed down the sink, fats, oils and grease stick to the insides of your sewer pipes (both on your property and in the streets). Over time, grease buildup can clog an entire pipeline, causing sewer overflows in your home and neighborhood. The damage from overflows could cost you thousands of dollars!
Here are some simple tips on how to prevent sewer overflows.
- Do not pour cooking oil, greasy food, dairy products, or salad dressing down the drain.
- Use strainers in the sink drains to catch food scraps and other solids.
- Do not use hot water and soap to try to wash grease down the drain. It will eventually cool and harden in your sewer lateral or municipal sewer line.
- Pour cooled grease into a disposable container, cover with a tight fitting lid and place in your freezer. Once contents are frozen, toss in the garbage.
- Mix cooking oils with absorbent material such as coffee grounds or cat litter. Place in tight lidded container and dispose of it in garbage.
- Wipe or scrape food particles from pots, pans and dishes into the trash can prior to placing them in the sink for washing.
- Wipe excess fats and grease from pans with a dry paper towel and toss it in the garbage.
For more information see the following links:
- FOG Control Program: Standard Conditions [PDF]
- FOG Outreach Flyer: Food Service Establishments [PDF]
- Grease Trap and Interceptor Maintenance Guide [PDF]
- FOG Best Management Practices [PDF]
- Food Service Establishment Cleaning Record (English/Spanish) [PDF]
- FOG Pumping Contractor Record & Grease Trap Cleaning Log [PDF]
- 2020 Grease Hauling Companies [PDF]
For FOG Control Program related questions contact the District’s FOG Control Program Environmental Compliance Inspectors at Wallace Group: (805) 544-4011.
