Commercial Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) Program
The DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management's Commercial Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) Program works with food service establishments to help protect the county's wastewater collection system, prevent sanitary sewer overflows, and safeguard public health and the environment.
Fats, oils and grease generated by restaurants, commercial kitchens, cafeterias, food preparation facilities and other food service establishments can accumulate in sewer lines and restrict wastewater flow. Proper management of FOG helps reduce blockages, protect infrastructure, and maintain reliable wastewater service throughout DeKalb County.
The Commercial FOG Program provides education, compliance assistance, inspections and monitoring to help food service establishments meet local requirements and operate responsibly.
Program Mission
The Commercial FOG Program is committed to educating food service establishments and the public on the proper management, operation and maintenance of grease interceptors and wastewater systems. Through education, compliance monitoring and enforcement of applicable codes and ordinances, the program helps reduce sanitary sewer overflows and protect DeKalb County's wastewater infrastructure.
Who Must Participate?
The Commercial FOG Program applies to food service establishments (FSEs) that generate fats, oils and grease as part of their operations. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Restaurants
- Cafeterias
- Commercial kitchens
- Catering facilities
- Bakeries
- Food preparation facilities
- Institutional food service operations
Participation in the program is required for applicable food service establishments connected to the DeKalb County wastewater system.
Program Services
Grease Interceptor Inspections
Compliance Inspectors conduct routine inspections of grease interceptors and related equipment to help ensure proper operation, maintenance and compliance with county requirements.
Compliance Monitoring
The program monitors compliance with local codes and ordinances designed to prevent excessive grease discharges and protect the wastewater collection system.
Education and Training
The Commercial FOG Program provides guidance and educational resources to help food service establishments understand best management practices, grease interceptor maintenance requirements and regulatory obligations.
Permitting Assistance
Staff are available to assist businesses with questions regarding FOG-related requirements, permitting processes and compliance expectations.
Compliance Inspectors
DeKalb County's Compliance Inspectors are highly trained professionals with educational backgrounds in engineering, biology, chemistry and related disciplines. Inspectors work directly with food service establishments to promote compliance, provide technical guidance and support the county's Capacity, Management, Operation and Maintenance (CMOM) efforts.
Responsibilities of Compliance Inspectors include:
- Conducting grease interceptor inspections
- Monitoring compliance with county regulations
- Responding to customer concerns and inquiries
- Maintaining inspection records and program documentation
- Managing compliance data and reporting
- Assisting with investigations involving improper wastewater discharges
- Supporting enforcement actions when necessary
- Participating in continuing education and regulatory training
Why FOG Management Matters
Proper management of fats, oils and grease helps:
- Prevent sewer line blockages
- Reduce sanitary sewer overflows
- Protect local waterways and the environment
- Extend the life of wastewater infrastructure
- Maintain reliable wastewater service for residents and businesses
- Support public health and safety throughout DeKalb County
Contact the Commercial FOG Program
For questions regarding inspections, compliance requirements, grease interceptors or permitting assistance, contact the Department of Watershed Management Commercial FOG Program.
Phone: 404-687-7150