Purpose and General Information

This Best Management Practice (BMP) is in effect for Food Service Establishments (FSEs) that are connected directly to infrastructure that HRSD owns and/or operates or for any other FSE as deemed necessary by HRSD. It is designed to aid in preventing the introduction and accumulation of Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) into the sanitary sewerage system.

Grease Control Devices (GCDs) are to be properly installed and regularly maintained by the FSE. GCDs capture FOG that is washed down kitchen fixtures. Improperly maintained GCDs can create backups in the sewer systems which can lead to sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). SSOs create significant public health hazards and expose HRSD to costly environmental penalties. SSOs are prohibited under the Federal Clean Water Act and are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and HRSD. SSOs can harm human health, degrade water quality, and impair ecosystem functions. FOG is a major source of SSOs and regular GCD cleaning is required to ensure proper operation and the prevention of SSOs.

Types of Grease Control Device

Gravity Grease Interceptor:

Hydromechanical Grease Interceptor (HGI):

HGI rated for high-capacity grease retention: 

Automatic Grease Removal Device:

Sludge Judge Measurements