Grease Management Ordinance

WHY IS THE LAKELAND SANITARY DISTRICT #1 UTILITY CONCERNED ABOUT FATS, OILS & GREASE (F.O.G.)?

In a warm, liquid state, F.O.G. can appear harmless since it flows easily down the drain.  However, shortly after it enters the drain, it can quickly cool and turn into a solid that will cause problems in the pipes in your home and in the sanitary sewer system. 

Over time, F.O.G. will accumulate along the walls of the sewer pipes.  This will restrict the flow of wastewater and can cause sewer backups not only into your property, but throughout your neighborhood.  

F.O.G. also contributes to operational issues for the Lakeland Sanitary District #1 such as obstructing flow in the sewers, causing foul odors, and interfering with equipment and treatment processes at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. 

WHICH FOOD PRODUCTS CONTAIN FATS, OILS AND GREASE?  

F.O.G. are natural by-products of the cooking and food prep process.  Common sources include food scraps, meat fats, cooking oils, lard, baked goods, salad dressings, sauces, marinades, dairy products, shortening, butter and margarine.

All establishments serving food including bars, restaurants, bowling alleys, nursing homes, schools, churches, grocery stores, and hospitals were contacted. We currently monitor 61 food service facilities. Reminder letters are sent in January and reports are due annually on April 1st for the previous calendar year. Per Grease Management Ordinance, Grease Trap Installations, we require maintenance records indicating emptying, cleaning, and repairs.