A lot goes into keeping a city running smoothly and safely. Streetlights need to switch from green to red, water needs to flow from the faucet, right-of-ways have to stay clear, and splash pads need regular testing. These are the visible parts of city life that most of us notice. But what about what’s happening underground?
Though you (hopefully) may never see them, it’s incredibly important to keep things flowing in our sewer systems by preventing blockages. One of the biggest challenges lurking below the surface is the buildup of fats, oils, and grease in the sewer system. This problem can cause costly damage if not addressed.
No single organization, home, or business is solely responsible for what goes down the drain. It’s a collective issue, and one we all play a part in preventing. For restaurants, that role is even more important given the daily volume of food preparation and cleanup.
Earlier this year, Kyle City Council approved the Fats, Oils, and Grease Ordinance requiring restaurants to take specific steps to limit the amount of—you guessed it—fats, oils, and grease entering our sewer system.
You may be asking, why does it matter? The answer is simple. Just like melted butter hardens when placed in the fridge, fats, oils, and grease that go down the sink can cool and solidify inside sewer pipes. This buildup can lead to blockages. It may cause sewage backups in homes and businesses, damage city infrastructure, and require costly emergency repairs.
Shortly after the ordinance went into effect, city staff recognized that complying with the new rules could come with significant costs for small, locally owned restaurants. To help, the city launched the Grease Interceptor Grant Program.
The grant helps eligible restaurants install grease interceptors. These are devices that trap grease before it reaches the public sewer system. The program reimburses up to 50 percent of the cost of purchasing and installing a grease interceptor, with a maximum grant of $5,000 per business. Grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis and only apply to businesses that were operating before the ordinance passed.
“This project is the first of its kind in Texas. It shifts the idea of maintaining compliance with local environmental programs through the means of enforcement, to stewardship of our infrastructure by both parties,” said Devon Sizemore, Pretreatment Coordinator for the city. “In so doing, compliance is met faster, and businesses are allowed to maintain normal operations without incurring heavy penalties or covering the cost of installation on their own.”
While the grant program is designed to help local food service establishments, the broader goal is to protect the city’s wastewater system for everyone. Grease interceptors are a critical part of that effort. These devices act as the first line of defense against blockages by separating fats, oils, and grease from wastewater before it enters public pipes.
Under the ordinance, food service establishments must also follow best practices such as using drain screens, disposing of cooking oil correctly, training staff, and keeping records of grease trap maintenance. Grease interceptors must be cleaned by a professional at least every 90 days.
“This program is a win-win for our businesses and our community,” Sizemore said. “And other cities have even reached out about starting their own.”
To learn more or apply, visit cityofkyle.com/WaterWise or contact the City of Kyle Water Utilities Department.
