Grease Trap Cleaning in New Orleans, LA: Cost, Rules & Top Companies (2026)

By the GreaseTrapFinder Editorial Team · Updated August 24, 2026 · Louisiana rules cited to official sources

Running a commercial kitchen in New Orleans? Staying on top of grease trap cleaning keeps you out of a sewer backup and compliant with Louisiana's FOG rules. Here's what it costs in New Orleans, 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 New Orleans

New Orleans prices near the national baseline; dense provider competition across the metro keeps rates competitive.

Trap / interceptor sizeTypical 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 New Orleans

At least quarterly, or when the trap reaches 25% of design capacity, whichever comes first (under New Orleans Plumbing Code Section 16; SWBNO FOG Program). 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.

New Orleans Grease Trap Requirements, Permits & Penalties

ProgramSewerage and Water Board of New Orleans FOG Program (official page)
Governing codeNew Orleans Plumbing Code Section 16; SWBNO FOG Program
Permit / registrationGrease Trap/Interceptor Discharge Permit from SWBNO, $100 per unit, expires yearly, non-transferable

Always get a signed manifest at every service and keep your records — that's the proof inspectors ask for. For the full Louisiana breakdown (hauler licensing, record retention, state penalties), see the Louisiana grease trap regulations guide.

Top Grease Trap Cleaning Companies in New Orleans

Screened companies serving New Orleans and the surrounding metro:

See all grease trap companies in New Orleans → or get free quotes from several at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does grease trap cleaning cost in New Orleans?

In New Orleans, expect roughly $150–$475 for small-to-medium traps and $400–$1,200 for larger interceptors per service. New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

At least quarterly, or when the trap reaches 25% of design capacity, whichever comes first 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 New Orleans?

Grease Trap/Interceptor Discharge Permit from SWBNO, $100 per unit, expires yearly, non-transferable. See the Louisiana regulations guide for details.

What are the penalties for grease trap violations in New Orleans?

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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