Palm Beach County manages grease waste compliance through coordination between the Solid Waste Authority (SWA) and the county's Water Utilities Department. Pump-out requirements are set on a per-permit basis, and all food service establishments must comply with both local requirements and state standards under Chapter 62-705 F.A.C..
Local Ordinance Details
Palm Beach County's FOG management is governed by county utility ordinances and enforced by the Water Utilities Department. The SWA plays a role in grease waste disposal oversight, ensuring that collected grease waste is transported to approved receiving facilities. Each FSE connected to the county wastewater system must obtain a FOG compliance permit. Municipalities within Palm Beach County, including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Delray Beach, may enforce additional local requirements through their own utility departments.
Pump-Out Frequency
Palm Beach County sets pump-out frequency on each facility's individual permit. Common schedules include:
- High-volume restaurants and buffets: Every 30 to 60 days
- Standard restaurants: Every 60 to 90 days
- Low-volume FSEs (cafes, delis): Every 90 days
The county determines your schedule based on trap size, establishment type, menu composition, and historical grease output. Your permit will specify the exact interval. Inspectors verify adherence to the permitted schedule during compliance checks.
Documentation Required
Palm Beach County inspectors and SWA representatives require:
- Active FOG compliance permit with assigned pump-out schedule
- Grease waste service manifests for each pump-out event
- Maintenance log showing dates, hauler company name, and volumes removed
- Proof that the hauler is registered with the Florida DEP for grease waste transport
- Trap or interceptor sizing and installation records
Penalties
Palm Beach County enforces FOG violations through a Notice of Violation (NOV) process. Initial NOVs come with a compliance deadline, typically 15 to 30 days. Unresolved violations can result in fines up to $500 per violation per day. Facilities causing sewer overflows due to FOG negligence may be billed for emergency response and cleanup costs. The county can mandate increased pumping frequency or require equipment upgrades at the facility's expense.
How to Stay Compliant
- Obtain your FOG compliance permit from Palm Beach County Water Utilities and follow the assigned schedule.
- Verify your hauler's DEP registration and ensure they transport waste to SWA-approved receiving facilities.
- Check with your municipality — Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and other cities may have additional local FOG requirements.
- Keep manifests and maintenance records organized for at least three years.
- Respond promptly to NOVs — the compliance window is short, and fines accumulate daily.
Find a Service Provider
Browse verified grease trap service companies in Palm Beach County to find compliant haulers near your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does the SWA play in grease trap compliance?
The Solid Waste Authority oversees waste disposal infrastructure in Palm Beach County. For grease waste, SWA ensures that haulers deliver collected grease to approved receiving and processing facilities. SWA does not directly inspect FSE grease traps, but works with county utilities on disposal compliance.
Do Boca Raton and West Palm Beach have their own FOG rules?
Yes. Several municipalities within Palm Beach County, including Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Delray Beach, operate their own utility departments and may impose additional FOG requirements. Contact your local utility provider to confirm whether municipal rules supplement county requirements.
How do I know what pump-out frequency I will be assigned?
Your frequency is determined during the permitting process based on your establishment type, trap size, menu, and estimated grease output. You can request a review if your business operations change significantly. Contact Palm Beach County Water Utilities FOG Program for permit inquiries.