Grease Trap Cleaning in Providence, RI: Cost, Rules & Top Companies (2026)
Running a commercial kitchen in Providence? Staying on top of grease trap cleaning keeps you out of a sewer backup and compliant with Rhode Island's FOG rules. Here's what it costs in Providence, 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 Providence
Providence 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 Providence
Annual minimum pump-out for in-ground interceptors; weekly inspections required (under 835-RICR-20-00-1 (125 mg/L oil & grease discharge limit)). 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.
Providence Grease Trap Requirements, Permits & Penalties
| Program | City of Providence FOG program, within the Narragansett Bay Commission sewer district (official page) |
| Governing code | 835-RICR-20-00-1 (125 mg/L oil & grease discharge limit) |
| Permit / registration | NBC Wastewater Discharge Permit required for sewer-connected establishments (~800 area restaurants hold one) |
Always get a signed manifest at every service and keep your records — that's the proof inspectors ask for. For the full Rhode Island breakdown (hauler licensing, record retention, state penalties), see the Rhode Island grease trap regulations guide.
Top Grease Trap Cleaning Companies in Providence
Screened companies serving Providence and the surrounding metro:
- Zoom Drain of Rhode Island · 4.9★ · (401) 399-4065
- Providence Grease Trap Services · 4.8★ · (401) 229-9089
- ZTERS · (888) 251-2660
- SewerMan of Providence
See all grease trap companies in Providence → or get free quotes from several at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does grease trap cleaning cost in Providence?
In Providence, expect roughly $150–$475 for small-to-medium traps and $400–$1,200 for larger interceptors per service. Providence 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 Providence?
Annual minimum pump-out for in-ground interceptors; weekly inspections required 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 Providence?
NBC Wastewater Discharge Permit required for sewer-connected establishments (~800 area restaurants hold one). See the Rhode Island regulations guide for details.
What are the penalties for grease trap violations in Providence?
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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