San Antonio Water System

Ordinance Overview:

• The purpose of this program is to aid in the prevention of sanitary sewer blockages, obstructions and Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) caused by the accumulation of fats, oils and grease discharged into the sanitary sewer system.
• This division applies to all Food Service Establishments (FSEs) and Food Processing Establishments (FPEs) within the city limits and the extra territorial jurisdiction of the City of San Antonio.
• Historically, 75 percent of sanitary sewer overflows in San Antonio are attributed to grease and debris. Reducing SSOs will reduce the environmental impacts to our streams and waterways.
• The ordinance changes enforcement from a sampling focus to an instant solids measurement.
• Analytical results are enforceable under other City ordinances.
• Existing FSEs and FPEs not equipped with an interceptor that complies with this ordinance shall install such an interceptor no later than 180 days after the effective date of this ordinance.
• FSEs that exceed 25 percent or more of the wetted height of the interceptor during an inspection by San Antonio Water System will be considered in violation.
• SAWS Resource Protection and Compliance will be responsible for program management and implementation.
• Best Management Practices (BMPs) are incorporated into the ordinance.

For questions concerning Best Management Practices, please contact us at greasebmp@saws.org.