Prepared by GreaseTrapLocator · Fact review: August 17, 2026
Start with City sewer jurisdiction and the permit
Atlanta's Grease Management Program applies to covered food-service facilities discharging to the City's wastewater collection system. The City requires food-service facilities to submit a permit application, pay the applicable permit fee, and be available for inspection. New or changed work also goes through City plan review.
An Atlanta postal address does not prove that every surrounding metro-area facility uses the same sewer authority. Confirm the service address and wastewater authority before applying the City schedule.
Use the City's device-specific maintenance rule
For covered City facilities, the combined depth of floating FOG and settled solids must not exceed 25% of the total liquid depth. Outdoor traps must be maintained at least every 90 days and indoor traps at least every 14 days. A permit can require more frequent service, and the 25% limit can require service before the calendar minimum arrives.
City rules require complete removal of floatables, wastewater, sludges, and solids. Top-skimming, decanting, and back-flushing are not substitutes for the required cleaning.
Keep the required service record
Keep the required manifests on site for three years. The City record includes the service date, quantity removed, hauler, and final disposal site. Arrange the service so the provider can supply the information needed for that record.
Compare written Atlanta service quotes
The City does not publish a contractor market-rate table. Compare written quotes for the actual device, indoor or outdoor access, complete pump-out and cleaning, manifest and disposal documentation, after-hours terms, excluded work, and total price. Confirm that the proposed schedule satisfies both the permit and the City minimums.
A practical facility checklist
- Confirm the address is served by the City of Atlanta sewer system.
- Keep the current grease-management permit and approved device information.
- Service before the 25% limit and no less often than the applicable indoor or outdoor minimum.
- Require complete removal rather than top-skimming, decanting, or back-flushing.
- Keep the required manifest and disposal information on site for three years.
Frequently asked questions
How often must a grease trap be serviced in Atlanta?
For covered facilities discharging to the City sewer system, outdoor traps must be maintained at least every 90 days and indoor traps at least every 14 days. Combined floating FOG and settled solids must remain below 25% of total liquid depth, and the permit can require more frequent service.
What records must an Atlanta operator keep?
Keep the City's required manifests and related records on site for three years. The record includes the service date, waste quantity, hauler, and final disposal site.
What must an Atlanta grease-trap service include?
City rules require complete removal of floatables, wastewater, sludges, and solids. Top-skimming, decanting, and back-flushing do not satisfy the complete-removal requirement.
How should I compare Atlanta service quotes?
Request a written scope identifying the device, access, complete pump-out and cleaning, manifest and disposal documentation, and any after-hours or additional-work charges. Confirm that the schedule meets the permit and City rules for the address.
Official sources
- City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management — Grease Management
- City of Atlanta Code — section 154-297.01
- City of Atlanta Code — section 154-297.03
Fact-checked August 17, 2026. Local rules, permits, and official guidance can change; confirm current requirements for the service address. General information only, not legal, plumbing, engineering, environmental, health, or safety advice.
Author: Grease Trap Locator Editorial Team
The Grease Trap Locator editorial team covers FOG compliance, grease trap maintenance, and commercial kitchen regulations across the US and Canada. Our guides are written for restaurant owners, facility managers, and food service operators who need practical, accurate information without the fluff.
Find local contractors who handle cleaning, pumping, and FOG compliance — in your area.