Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG)

When Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) go down the drain, they build up in pipes to cause clogs. These clogs can cause a sewer pipe to break or back up into the street, causing a Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO). SSOs are trouble for everyone.

  • They contain harmful bacteria unhealthy for people and pets.
  • They sometimes spill into the gutter and storm drain system before we can get there.
  • Raw sewage in waterways can cause foul odors, kill wildlife, and make waterways unsafe.

 

Help Us Keep It Off the Streets

If you see water and sewage bubbling up from a maintenance hole or pooling in a grassy area, please report it immediately by calling the 24-Hour Emergency Service Center.    

 

Tips to Prevent SSOs

At Home Tips

  • Never pour grease down sinks, drains, or toilets.
  • Collect cooking fats, oils, and grease into a closed container and dispose of them in the garbage.
  • Before washing, wipe grease from pans with a paper towel.
  • Catch food scraps with baskets or strainers in sink drains; throw scrapes in the Organics (green/food waste) cart.
  • Visit the Residents page for more ways to prevent SSOs.

Restaurants and Building Owners Tips

  • Recycle grease and oil.
  • Dry wipe pots, pans, and dishware before washing.
  • Do not pour FOG down sinks, floor drains, or onto parking lots or streets.
  • Check and maintain grease traps regularly.
  • Never put solids into grease traps or interceptors.
  • Provide regular employee training on the proper disposal of FOG.
  • Visit our Businesses page for more ways to prevent SSOs.

 

External Links


San Joaquin County Household Hazardous Waste Facility - Free local drop off of household waste or unwanted items including cooking and frying oil, leftover paint, pool chemicals, expired or unwanted medications

This City of Stockton web page last reviewed on --- 6/29/2023

Videos


 

Fats Oils Grease (FOG) Video

 

See more City of Stockton videos