Grease Trap Cleaning in New York City, NY: Cost, Rules & Top Companies (2026)
Running a commercial kitchen in New York City? Staying on top of grease trap cleaning keeps you out of a sewer backup and compliant with New York's FOG rules. Here's what it costs in New York City, 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 York City
New York City is in a higher-cost region — the Northeast and West Coast typically run 20–40% above the national baseline, so expect the upper end of these ranges.
| 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 New York City
Clean before FOG and solids exceed 25% of total liquid depth — typically every 30–90 days (under Title 15 RCNY §19-11; NYC Administrative Code). 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 York City Grease Trap Requirements, Permits & Penalties
| Program | NYC DEP grease interceptor rules + Business Integrity Commission hauler licensing (official page) |
| Governing code | Title 15 RCNY §19-11; NYC Administrative Code |
| Permit / registration | Interceptor installation requires DEP filing and building department approval, installed by NYS-licensed plumbers; only BIC-licensed haulers may collect grease waste |
| Penalties | Up to $10,000 per day per violation |
Always get a signed manifest at every service and keep your records — that's the proof inspectors ask for. For the full New York breakdown (hauler licensing, record retention, state penalties), see the New York grease trap regulations guide.
Top Grease Trap Cleaning Companies in New York City
Screened companies serving New York City and the surrounding metro:
- NYC Clean Air Group · 4.9★ · (718) 746-1497
- Metropolitan Plumbing & Heating · 4.0★ · (718) 494-9190
- A&L Cesspool & Recycling · 3.0★ · (718) 729-3018
See all grease trap companies in New York City → or get free quotes from several at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does grease trap cleaning cost in New York City?
In New York City, expect roughly $150–$475 for small-to-medium traps and $400–$1,200 for larger interceptors per service. New York City is in a higher-cost region — the Northeast and West Coast typically run 20–40% above the national baseline, so expect the upper end of these ranges. Get 2–3 local quotes to compare — it's free.
How often do I have to clean my grease trap in New York City?
Clean before FOG and solids exceed 25% of total liquid depth — typically every 30–90 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 New York City?
Interceptor installation requires DEP filing and building department approval, installed by NYS-licensed plumbers; only BIC-licensed haulers may collect grease waste. See the New York regulations guide for details.
What are the penalties for grease trap violations in New York City?
Up to $10,000 per day per violation Keep a signed manifest from every cleaning and your maintenance records on file — that's what inspectors ask for first.
Get Free New York City Grease Trap Quotes
Compare screened local companies in minutes — no obligation.
Get My Free Quote