UK Grease Trap Regulations Guide
Everything you need to know about grease trap compliance in the UK. Understanding the law helps you avoid fines and protect your business.
The Legal Framework
Multiple laws and regulations apply to grease management in commercial kitchens. Here's what you need to know.
Building Regulations Part H
Approved Document H
Building Regulations require grease separators in commercial hot food premises drainage systems.
- Applies to all new builds and significant refurbishments
- Must comply with BS EN 1825-1:2004
- Must be sized according to BS EN 1825-2:2002
- Required for kitchens preparing hot food
Water Industry Act 1991
Section 111
Makes it illegal to discharge matter that interferes with the free flow of wastewater.
- Prohibits FOG entering the sewer system
- Unlimited fines for contravention
- Potential imprisonment for serious offences
- Water companies can recharge cleanup costs
Environmental Protection Act 1990
Duty of Care
Businesses must ensure waste is managed properly and doesn't cause pollution.
- Duty of care for controlled waste
- Proper documentation required
- Licensed waste carriers must be used
- Fixed penalties for non-compliance
Food Safety Act 1990
Hygiene Regulations
Poor grease management can lead to food hygiene violations and enforcement.
- Covers food business hygiene standards
- Local authority enforcement powers
- Can result in closure notices
- Linked to FOG management failures
Building Regulations Part H
Building Regulations Approved Document H (Drainage and Waste Disposal) sets out the requirements for drainage systems in commercial kitchens.
Section 2.21 states: "Drainage serving kitchens in commercial hot food premises should be fitted with a grease separator complying with BS EN 1825-1:2004 and designed in accordance with BS EN 1825-2:2002 or other effective means of grease removal."
This applies to all new commercial kitchens and significant refurbishments where the drainage system is being altered. Building Control will typically require evidence of grease management provision before signing off work.
Key Requirements
- Grease trap must comply with BS EN 1825-1:2004
- Sizing must follow BS EN 1825-2:2002 methodology
- Must be accessible for maintenance
- Must be properly vented
- Installation must not compromise fire safety
Water Industry Act 1991
Section 111 of the Water Industry Act 1991 makes it a criminal offence to "throw, empty or turn, or suffer or permit to be thrown or emptied or to pass, into any sewer... any matter likely to injure the sewer or drain, to interfere with the free flow of its contents."
Fats, oils, and grease fall under this definition. When FOG enters the sewer system, it cools and solidifies, causing blockages (fatbergs) that can affect entire neighbourhoods.
Penalties include:
Unlimited Fines
No maximum fine for convictions
Imprisonment
Up to 2 years for serious offences
Recharge Costs
Pay for clearing blockages you cause
Criminal Record
Permanent record of conviction
How Water Authorities Enforce
Initial Contact
You receive a letter or notice about grease management. This is your opportunity to comply without penalties.
Enforcement Notice
If you don't respond, a formal Enforcement Notice is issued requiring specific actions by a deadline.
Prosecution
Failure to comply with an Enforcement Notice leads to prosecution and the full range of penalties.
Compliance Checklist
Documentation You Need
Proper documentation is essential for proving compliance during inspections.
Installation Certificate
Proof your grease trap was installed correctly and complies with regulations. Should include model, size, and installation date.
Waste Transfer Notes
Required for every grease trap collection. Legal proof that waste was disposed of by a licensed carrier. Keep for 2 years minimum.
Service Reports
Documentation of all maintenance visits. Shows regular cleaning and condition of the trap. Essential for warranty and compliance.
FOG Management Plan
Document outlining your grease management procedures, staff training, and maintenance schedule. Required by many water authorities.
Compliance Certificate
Issued after installation or major service. Confirms the system meets current regulations and is operating correctly.
Staff Training Records
Evidence that kitchen staff understand FOG disposal procedures. Important for food safety and environmental compliance.
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