Grease Trap Cleaning in Memphis, TN: Cost, Rules & Top Companies (2026)
Running a commercial kitchen in Memphis? Staying on top of grease trap cleaning keeps you out of a sewer backup and compliant with Tennessee's FOG rules. Here's what it costs in Memphis, 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 Memphis
Memphis 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 Memphis
No single statewide interval. TDEC guidance points to the 25% rule; individual sewer authorities set enforceable schedules — Nashville requires grease traps serviced at least every 30 days and interceptors at least every 90 days. 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.
Memphis Grease Trap Requirements, Permits & Penalties
| Program | City of Memphis Fats, Oil and Grease Management Program (official page) |
| Governing code | Memphis City Code Chapter 13-26 |
| Permit / registration | FOG application required; use of a certified grease waste hauler is required |
Always get a signed manifest at every service and keep your records — that's the proof inspectors ask for. For the full Tennessee breakdown (hauler licensing, record retention, state penalties), see the Tennessee grease trap regulations guide.
Top Grease Trap Cleaning Companies in Memphis
Screened companies serving Memphis and the surrounding metro:
- SewerMan Memphis · 5.0★ · (901) 598-1999
- Grease Trap Cleaning Memphis TN · 4.1★ · (901) 414-3097
- SewerMan of Memphis · Contact via website
- RooterMan Memphis · (901) 681-0888
See all grease trap companies in Memphis → or get free quotes from several at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does grease trap cleaning cost in Memphis?
In Memphis, expect roughly $150–$475 for small-to-medium traps and $400–$1,200 for larger interceptors per service. Memphis 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 Memphis?
No single statewide interval. TDEC guidance points to the 25% rule; individual sewer authorities set enforceable schedules — Nashville requires grease traps serviced at least every 30 days and interceptors at least every 90 days. 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 Memphis?
FOG application required; use of a certified grease waste hauler is required. See the Tennessee regulations guide for details.
What are the penalties for grease trap violations in Memphis?
Fines are set by the local sewer authority and can escalate for repeat violations. Keep a signed manifest from every cleaning and your maintenance records on file — that's what inspectors ask for first.
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