Fats Oils and Grease - Introduction
Special Projects Coordinator (757) 259-4138
Environmental Education Coordinator (757) 253-6859
greasebusters@james-city.va.us
The James City Service Authority has created a public education campaign to eliminate improper disposal of fats, oils and grease (FOG). We have established the program to promote a clean environment by reducing the number of sanitary sewer overflows caused by Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG). Sewer overflows and backups can cause health hazards, damage homes and the environment. The campaign's slogan, "Don’t Strain the Drain!" is meant as a friendly reminder to our customers that putting fats, oils or grease down a sink can create a situation that is both unhealthy and expensive not only to the JCSA, but to you personally.
Putting these greasy materials down a sink can lead to a clogged sanitary sewer line. Clogs can then lead to wastewater backing up into your home or business, spilling out onto the streets, and even finding its way into storm drains and to the beaches of the Chesapeake Bay. Cleanup can be expensive for residential homeowners and especially expensive for commercial businesses like restaurants. They can also be subject to fines and closures if the situation is serious enough. While the JCSA maintains the community-wide sewer system, the sewer line within your own home and on your property out to the sewer main is the responsibility of the property owner. If you find that your home's sewer lines have become clogged with FOG, it may require either do-it-yourself maintenance or assistance from a plumber to clear the blockage.
Residential Frequently Asked Questions
- What is FOG?
- Is FOG a community issue?
- What kind of problems can occur from a grease blockage in my neighborhood line?
- What about using my garbage disposal or detergents to wash it down the drain?
- What can you do to help?
- What is the JCSA doing about educating the public?
Commercial Frequently Asked Questions
- What is FOG?
- Is FOG a community issue?
- What is a grease trap and how does it work?
- What is a grease interceptor?
- Can you recommend a maintenance schedule?
- Do I have a grease trap?
- Do I need a grease trap?
- What if I don’t install a grease trap?
- Who determines if I need a grease trap or interceptor?
- How can I get in compliance?
- What are the criteria for inspecting grease traps?
- What are Best Management Practices?
- How does the JCSA ensure Compliance?
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