Hillsborough County requires all food service establishments to maintain grease traps and interceptors under its Grease Management Program. The county enforces a 90-day maximum pumping interval, which is stricter than the state baseline under Chapter 62-705 F.A.C..
Local Ordinance Details
The Hillsborough County Grease Management Program operates under county environmental ordinances and is enforced by the Hillsborough County Public Utilities Department. Within the City of Tampa, the Tampa Water Department co-enforces grease management requirements. All FSEs connected to the public sewer system must register with the program and maintain an active grease management plan.
Pump-Out Frequency
Hillsborough County mandates that grease traps and interceptors be pumped at least every 90 days. This applies to all commercial food preparation establishments regardless of trap size. The City of Tampa follows the same 90-day requirement. Facilities with smaller traps or higher grease output may need to pump more frequently to prevent blockages. Your specific frequency may be adjusted by the county based on inspection findings.
Documentation Required
Inspectors in Hillsborough County require:
- City of Tampa approved grease waste manifests for all pump-outs
- Maintenance records showing date, hauler company, and gallons removed
- Registration documentation with the Grease Management Program
- Current grease trap sizing documentation
- Evidence of employee training on grease management best practices
Penalties
Hillsborough County enforces FOG violations through escalating actions. Initial violations result in a written Notice of Violation with a compliance deadline (typically 30 days). Continued non-compliance leads to fines of up to $500 per day. Chronic violators may face sewer service disconnection. The City of Tampa can impose surcharges on sewer bills for facilities that cause FOG-related blockages or sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs).
How to Stay Compliant
- Register with the Grease Management Program — ensure your facility is on file with the county.
- Pump every 90 days minimum — set a recurring schedule with your service provider to avoid lapses.
- Use City of Tampa approved manifests — ensure your hauler provides the correct documentation for every service visit.
- Keep records for a minimum of three years — inspectors may request historical compliance data.
- Install properly sized equipment — undersized traps lead to more frequent failures and violations.
Find a Service Provider
Browse verified grease trap service companies in Hillsborough County to find compliant haulers near your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 90-day rule the same for traps and interceptors in Hillsborough?
Yes. Hillsborough County applies the 90-day maximum pumping interval to both interior grease traps and exterior grease interceptors. However, smaller interior traps may need more frequent cleaning depending on usage volume.
Do I need different permits for Tampa vs unincorporated Hillsborough?
Facilities within the City of Tampa fall under Tampa Water Department oversight, while unincorporated areas are managed by Hillsborough County Public Utilities. Both follow the 90-day rule, but permit registration processes differ. Contact the appropriate authority based on your location.
What happens if my hauler does not provide an approved manifest?
Using a hauler that does not provide City of Tampa approved manifests can put your facility out of compliance. You are responsible for ensuring your service provider uses the correct manifest forms. Keep copies of every manifest on file.