18 providers across Florida
Used cooking oil (UCO) collection is a separate but complementary service to grease trap cleaning. While grease traps capture FOG from wash water and drains, used cooking oil comes directly from fryers and cooking equipment. Florida regulations distinguish between the two waste streams — UCO is often recycled into biodiesel and other products, while grease trap waste requires disposal at permitted facilities. Many grease trap service companies offer UCO pickup as an add-on service, providing collection containers and scheduled pickups at no charge since the oil has recycling value. Proper UCO disposal prevents it from entering your grease trap (which reduces cleaning frequency) and keeps you compliant with waste management regulations.
UCO collection providers supply secure collection containers for your used fryer oil, schedule regular pickups (typically weekly or bi-weekly), transport the oil for recycling into biodiesel or other products, and provide documentation of proper disposal. Many providers offer this at no charge since recycled oil has commodity value.
Collection frequency depends on your frying volume. Most restaurants need weekly or bi-weekly pickup. High-volume frying operations (fried chicken restaurants, fish fry establishments) may need more frequent service. Your provider will help determine the right schedule based on your container fill rate.
Many UCO collection services in Florida are free — the provider earns revenue by selling the recycled oil. Some providers even pay restaurants for high-quality cooking oil. If there's a fee, it's typically minimal ($25-50/month) and often bundled with grease trap cleaning contracts.
Used cooking oil collection has different regulatory requirements than grease trap waste. UCO recycling doesn't fall under Chapter 62-705's grease waste hauler licensing. However, ensure your provider has proper waste hauling permits for your municipality.
Showing 18 companies across Florida