Do Not Pour Kitchen Grease Down the Drain
Do not pour cooking fats, oils and grease (FOG) down any drains or toilets. FOG will clog sewer pipes, which can then cause costly sewer overflows and basement backups.
When homeowners have to hire a plumber to remove grease from their sewer service line, rates vary from $200 - $400 the first hour for response, with additional charges for extra time and after-hours service calls. Sewer blockages often cause backups into basements, causing loss of property.
Cleaning a FOG sewer clog in the public right of way costs the city at least $2,000 per job. If the blockage causes a sewer overflow, the City must pay fines for the discharge into the environment.
To dispose of FOG in your trash, first make sure it is in solid form:
- Absorb the grease with paper towels, wiping thoroughly before washing.
- For small amounts in a pan, let the grease cool and solidify and then wipe with paper towels.
- Pour the grease into a lidded container with wood shavings or cat litter to throw in the trash.
- Place the grease in a strong container (tin can, coffee can or bottle) and freeze until solid.
Remember, cooking oil can be re-used; do not throw it away if you can re-use it.
Fats, Oils, and Grease Control
A leading cause of sewer blockages across the U.S. is the accumulation of fats, oils and grease (FOG) in the sanitary sewers. The greasy waste enters the sewers through connections from homes, food service establishments, and industrial wastewater dischargers. The blockages cause sanitary sewer overflows into local waterways and backups into basements of nearby homes and businesses.
Flooding and Water Leak Info
Information and resources (including basement backup prevention devices) for customers experiencing flooding and water leak issues such as: basement or yard flooding; water meter leaks; leaks in the street or a hydrant; blocked storm drains causing street flooding &/or ice; safety & cleanup information for basement flooding; how to locate your main water control valve to turn-off during an emergency.
Sewer Overflow FAQs
When volume exceeds capacity, sewer overflows can discharge into local waterways. Learn why this happens & where, what we are doing about it and what residents can do to help.