Public Works

Fats, Oils and Grease are by-products of cooking and can be found in various food sources. Fats, Oils and Grease become a problem for residents, businesses, and the City when they are not disposed of properly.

When Fats, Oils, and Grease are disposed of down the drain they cause a build up in the plumbing (sewer) lines causing an obstruction and not allowing wastewater to flow freely to the treatment facility. Wastewater then backs up and overflows either into your home, business, or out the manhole in the street. These overflows are unsanitary and costly to clean up.

The following is an example of some of the products in your kitchen that should NOT be disposed of down the drain:

Here are some helpful tips on how Fats, Oils and Grease can be properly managed in your kitchen:

• Allow cooking oil and grease to cool, pour into a tightly sealed container and dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour oil and grease down the drain;
  
  
• Remove oil and grease from kitchen utensils, equipment and food preparation areas with scrapers or paper towels and dispose in the trash. Keep grease out of wash water;
  
  
• Use sink strainers to capture excess food waste and place all food scraps in the trash. Do not use a garbage disposal to dispose of excess food waste. 

For more information on the Fats, Oils and Grease Program please contact the Utilities Department at (530) 822-4639.