Houston, TX grease trap & interceptor requirements
Program run by Houston Health Department (Special Waste Program) & Houston Public Works. Hand-checked against source Last checked 2026-10-17. Report an error / rule changed
Quick answer
- How often to pump: At least every 90 days
- Interceptor minimum / sizing: not stated in the sources we checked
- Permit / fees: Permit required
Rules change; verify with your city. Summaries are plain-English restatements of the official source linked below; “Source says” shows the exact wording. Blank rows mean the sources we checked did not state that rule, not that there is no rule.
| Required trap / interceptor type | Not stated in the sources we checked |
|---|---|
| Sizing rule | Not stated in the sources we checked |
| Pumping / cleaning frequency | Every interceptor inside city limits must be fully evacuated at least quarterly (every 90 days) unless a Notice of Waiver is submitted and approved (City Code §47-512(b)). ✓ checked against source |
| Permit required? | Commercial kitchens and businesses that generate grease must be permitted. ✓ checked against source |
| Permit & program fees | Not stated in the sources we checked |
| Inspections | Restaurants, cafeterias and commercial kitchens are inspected at least annually by the Houston Health Department. ✓ checked against source |
| Record keeping | Keep the white and yellow manifest copies on site for 5 years; return the generator copy within 15 days of pump-out. ✓ checked against source |
| Pumper / hauler approval | Use a permitted transporter; the transporter must leave a city-approved manifest. ✓ checked against source |
| Reporting portal | Not stated in the sources we checked |
| Fines & penalties | Not stated in the sources we checked |
| Program contact | [email protected] · 832-393-5740 |
Sources
- https://www.houstonhealth.org/media/11581/download?attachment= · checked 2026-10-17
- https://library.municode.com/tx/houston/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COOR_CH47WASE_ARTXITRTRCEWA_DIV1GE_S47-412SCINLISTRE · checked 2026-10-17
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