Prepared by GreaseTrapLocator · Fact review: August 17, 2026
Confirm Charlotte Water is the control authority
Charlotte Water's Grease Trap Policy applies where it is the wastewater control authority. Covered food-service establishments need approved grease-handling facilities that are accessible for inspection and maintenance. Confirm the sewer authority for the exact address before relying on the City policy.
Follow the published device-based schedule
Charlotte Water says outside traps should be pumped quarterly and small under-sink traps monthly, unless the control authority directs otherwise. The policy calls for complete pump-out by a Charlotte Water-approved grease handling and hauling company. Pumped waste must not be returned to the interceptor.
The published Charlotte policy does not establish a universal 25% capacity trigger. Use the actual device, the policy schedule, and any written Charlotte Water direction.
Maintain the facility's three-year file
Keep an on-site file with pumping and maintenance logs and receipts, inspection information, hauler and disposal information, and monitoring data when required. Retain those records for three years and keep as-built drawings for the life of the grease trap.
Compare Charlotte service quotes
Charlotte Water does not publish a standard contractor rate. Compare written scopes for complete pump-out, the approved hauler, device access, maintenance or repair work, disposal records, after-hours terms, exclusions, and total price. Confirm current hauler status through Charlotte Water.
A practical facility checklist
- Confirm Charlotte Water is the authority serving the address.
- Use a Charlotte Water-approved grease handling and hauling company.
- Plan for outside devices quarterly and small under-sink devices monthly, as the policy advises, unless directed otherwise.
- Do not allow pumped waste to be returned to the interceptor.
- Keep the three-year facility file and life-of-device as-built drawings.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a Charlotte grease trap be serviced?
Charlotte Water's policy says outside traps should be pumped quarterly and small under-sink traps monthly, unless the control authority directs a different schedule. The facility must also keep the equipment working properly.
What records must a Charlotte operator keep?
Keep an on-site file for three years with pumping and maintenance logs and receipts, inspection information, hauler and disposal information, and monitoring data when required. Keep as-built drawings for the life of the grease trap.
Can a restaurant choose any service company in Charlotte?
Charlotte Water's policy requires cleaning by a Charlotte Water-approved grease handling and hauling company. Confirm current status with Charlotte Water and retain the disposal records from each service.
How should I compare Charlotte service quotes?
Ask for a written scope identifying the device, access, complete pump-out, cleaning or repair work, disposal documentation, and any after-hours or additional-work charges. Confirm the scope follows Charlotte Water requirements for the address.
Official sources
- Charlotte Water — Grease Trap Policy
- Charlotte Water — FlowFree
- City of Charlotte Code — Wastewater Discharge Restrictions
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.