Protect Your Pipes

Fats Oil and Grease being pured down a drain with a don't do it sign

Every day, household cooking and food preparation generate fats, oils, and grease—commonly known as FOG. When poured down the drain, these substances may seem harmless, but once they cool, they harden and cling to the inside of pipes. Over time, this buildup can block your home’s plumbing and create major problems for the District’s wastewater system.

Why It Matters

When FOG enters the sewer system, it doesn’t just disappear. As it solidifies, it restricts flow in pipes and can cause:

  • Sewer blockages and backups in homes and streets.
  • Increased maintenance costs for the District.
  • Environmental harm from sewer overflows into storm drains and waterways.

Preventing these issues helps protect your property, our community, and the environment. 

Do’s and Don’ts of FOG Disposal

Do:

Pour cooled fats, oils, and grease into a sealed container and dispose of it in the trash.

Wipe pots, pans, and dishes with a paper towel before washing.

Use sink strainers to catch food scraps and dispose of them properly.

Sewer Pipe with Grease.jpg

Don’t:

Pour cooking oil, grease, or meat drippings down the sink, toilet, or storm drain.

Rinse greasy dishes or pans with hot water—this only pushes FOG farther down the pipe.

Use additives or detergents that claim to dissolve grease; these only move the problem downstream.

Commercial Kitchens and Businesses

Restaurants and food service establishments play a major role in keeping our sewer system healthy. SLWSD requires that commercial kitchens install and maintain grease traps or interceptors to capture FOG before it enters the wastewater system. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent blockages and ensure compliance with District regulations.

Working Together for a Cleaner System

At SLWSD, our Utilities Department works every day to maintain the integrity of our wastewater collection and treatment systems. But keeping those systems running smoothly starts at home—with every resident and business doing their part.

By practicing good FOG disposal habits, you’re helping protect our community’s infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs, and preserve our local environment.

Back to top