Grease Trap Cleaning in Houston, TX: Cost, Rules & Top Companies (2026)
Running a commercial kitchen in Houston? Staying on top of grease trap cleaning keeps you out of a sewer backup and compliant with Texas's FOG rules. Here's what it costs in Houston, how often you're required to clean, the permit and regulation basics, and the local companies that handle it.
What Grease Trap Cleaning Costs in Houston
Houston prices near the national baseline; dense provider competition across the metro keeps rates competitive.
| Trap / interceptor size | Typical cost per service |
|---|---|
| Small trap (under 50 gal) | $115 – $240 |
| Medium trap (50–500 gal) | $150 – $475 |
| Large interceptor (500–1,500 gal) | $400 – $1,200 |
| Large interceptor (1,500+ gal) | $475 – $2,500 |
Typical ranges per service — your price depends on trap size, accessibility, and frequency. Recurring contracts usually run 15–30% below one-off rates. Estimate yours with the cost estimator or see the full pricing guide.
How Often You Must Clean It in Houston
Full evacuation at least quarterly (every 90 days) under §47-512(b), unless a Notice of Waiver is approved. The industry-standard 25% rule applies either way: clean before fats, oils, and grease reach a quarter of your trap's capacity, because past that point grease passes straight through to the sewer. High-volume kitchens (fryers, BBQ, seafood) often need service more often than the minimum.
Houston Grease Trap Requirements, Permits & Penalties
| Program | Special Waste Generators Program (Houston Health Department) (official page) |
| Governing code | Houston Code of Ordinances, Chapter 47, Article XI, §47-512(b) |
| Permit / registration | Annual generator registration required; haulers need a separate city transporter permit |
| Penalties | $250–$2,000 per violation |
Always get a signed manifest at every service and keep your records — that's the proof inspectors ask for. For the full Texas breakdown (hauler licensing, record retention, state penalties), see the Texas grease trap regulations guide.
Top Grease Trap Cleaning Companies in Houston
Screened companies serving Houston and the surrounding metro:
- Houston Grease Trap Services · 5.0★ · (713) 893-1995
- Affordable Environmental Services · 5.0★ · (832) 277-2739
- Ameritex Septic · 5.0★ · (281) 785-0104
- Ameri-Tex Septic and Grease Service · 5.0★ · (281) 752-6231
- Grease Recyclers LLC · 4.8★ · (713) 828-7310
- Pump Truck Houston · 3.9★ · (713) 868-1171
- 1st Choice Grease Service · 3.2★ · (832) 514-7793
- Southwaste Disposal · 3.2★ · (713) 413-9400
See all grease trap companies in Houston → or get free quotes from several at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does grease trap cleaning cost in Houston?
In Houston, expect roughly $150–$475 for small-to-medium traps and $400–$1,200 for larger interceptors per service. Houston prices near the national baseline; dense provider competition across the metro keeps rates competitive. Get 2–3 local quotes to compare — it's free.
How often do I have to clean my grease trap in Houston?
Full evacuation at least quarterly (every 90 days) under §47-512(b), unless a Notice of Waiver is approved Regardless of the calendar, clean before FOG and solids reach 25% of capacity — past that, grease escapes to the sewer, which is what triggers violations.
Do I need a permit for a grease trap in Houston?
Annual generator registration required; haulers need a separate city transporter permit. See the Texas regulations guide for details.
What are the penalties for grease trap violations in Houston?
$250–$2,000 per violation Keep a signed manifest from every cleaning and your maintenance records on file — that's what inspectors ask for first.
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