Show All Answers

1. What is FOG?

FOG stands for Fat, Oils, and Grease. When it is poured down drains, it can harden and create blockages in the wastewater system. 

2. What is a Gravity Grease Interceptor?

Grease Interceptor is a device located on the outside of the building meant to separate FOG from the wastewater discharge. There are at least two chambers separated by a baffle.

3. When is a Gravity Grease Interceptor Required?

A Gravity Grease Interceptor is required for businesses or commercial establishments that discharges grease, fats, or oils such as restaurants, food service facilities, and stores that sell food they cook on premises as seen in City Ordinance Section 82-140.

4. What is a Hydro-mechanical Grease Interceptor?

A Hydro-mechanical Grease Interceptor is a device that separates nonpolar FOG such as fats, oils, and grease from wastewater discharge.

5. How often do I need to clean out the Grease Interceptor?

The frequency the Grease Interceptor needs to be cleaned is based on the unit itself. The suggested pumping and cleaning intervals are listed below; however, some may need to be scheduled more frequently.

>50-gallon capacity

    It should not exceed 90-days, or if the following occurs:

1.    When the floatable grease layer in the outlet side (measured by an approved dipping method) exceeds 6 inches in depth 

2.    When the settable solids layer in the outlet side (measured by an approved dipping method) exceeds 8 inches in depth 

<50-gallon capacity

It should not exceed 7-days, or if the following occurs:

1.    The total volume of grease and solid material displaces more than 20% of the total volume of the unit.

BSI will generate the frequency of when the interceptor will need to be cleaned and pumped. If the business/property owner needs to alter the frequency, please reach out to the Utility Department.

6. Where can I report when the Grease Interceptor is cleaned and pumped?

The cleaning and pumping of the Grease Interceptor are to be reported to Backflow Solutions Inc, or BSI.

7. What is BSI?

Backflow Solutions Inc, or BSI, is a company partnering with the City of Fernandina Beach to help record the frequency of the cleaning and pumping of the systems. They are available for assistance on their website: backflow.com, or by phone: (800) 414-4990.

8. Who can I use to clean the Grease Interceptor?

The business/property owner can use any certified hauler for cleaning and pumping the Grease Interceptor.

9. What if I don’t have a Grease Interceptor but received the letter to report when the Grease Interceptor is cleaned?

The business/property owner will have six months to come in compliance. If they have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Utilities Department.

10. Who is responsible for reporting the Grease Interceptor has been pumped and cleaned?

The business/property owner is responsible for ensuring that either they, or the hauler, report that the unit has been pumped and cleaned.