City Grease Interceptor Codes and Contact Info

Grease trap codes and city water regulations are complicated. Here’s how to find answers faster in your city’s code:

1. Big Dipper and Trapzilla units are hydromechanical grease interceptors. If you see the words “hydromechanical grease interceptors” in your regulation or code, chances are good that Trapzilla and Big Dipper are allowed. The same goes for “AGRU” or “automatic grease removal units” — Big Dipper units fall under this category.

2. Look for any references to ASME and PDI certifications. Big Dipper and Trapzilla units are certified by both.

3. If your city’s grease trap code requires all grease interceptors to have a long retention or detention time (anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours), your city may only approve grease interceptors larger than Trapzilla and Big Dipper. Most cities offer a variance if you don’t have much space and don’t produce much grease. Ask your plan reviewer for a variance to use Trapzilla or Big Dipper.

4. If local code dictates pumping before grease and solids reach a combined 25% of the liquid volume, it may approve only units larger than Trapzilla and Big Dipper. Most cities offer a variance if you don’t have much space and don’t produce much grease. Ask your plan reviewer for a variance to use Trapzilla or Big Dipper.
 
 
Grease interceptors are often specified in local plumbing codes. Many city plumbing codes are edited versions of either the Uniform Plumbing Code or International Plumbing Code, altered by a few local amendments.

• A good rule of thumb is referring to UPC Chapter 10.
• Here is the pertinent part of the IPC. 

Ultimately, final approvals are often left at the discretion of your local regulator. Click the magnifying glass icon below to search for your city’s specifications and see if your city’s grease trap code gives the okay for Trapzilla or Big Dipper.

Questions? Contact us at (800) 633-4204 or info@thermaco.com.