Avoid £50K fines—grease traps are now a legal must for restaurants.
Restaurants and cafés across the UK are facing stricter regulations regarding the disposal of fats, oils, and grease (FOG). Authorities are imposing fines of up to £50,000 on businesses that fail to install grease traps, leading to significant financial and operational risks. FOG buildup in drainage systems causes severe blockages, environmental harm, and expensive repairs, prompting strict enforcement from water companies and regulators.
Many food business owners remain unaware that grease traps are a legal requirement, not just a best practice. Failing to comply can result in legal action, substantial fines, and even forced business closure. To help you stay compliant, this guide explains what grease traps are, why they are legally mandatory, and how you can protect your business from penalties.
What Are Grease Traps and How Do They Work?
A grease trap is a device installed in commercial kitchens to prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering drainage systems. It allows wastewater from sinks, dishwashers, and cooking appliances to flow through, separating grease from clean water before it reaches the sewer system.
Without a grease trap, FOG solidifies in pipes, leading to:
✅ Severe blockages that can cause flooding.
✅Unpleasant odours that affect customers and staff.
✅Costly emergency plumbing repairs and potential health code violations.
There are two main types of grease traps:
Passive Grease Traps – Small units that require manual cleaning.
Automatic Grease Removal Units (GRUs) – More advanced systems that automatically remove grease, requiring less frequent maintenance.
Choosing the right grease trap is not just about convenience—it’s a legal necessity that protects your business from penalties and keeps your kitchen running efficiently.
UK Legal Requirements for Grease Traps
In the UK, food businesses must install grease traps under key regulations designed to prevent drainage blockages and environmental harm. Relevant laws include:
- Water Industry Act 1991 – Prohibits discharging substances that cause sewer blockages.
- Building Regulations 2000 (Part H) – Mandates grease traps for commercial kitchens to prevent FOG from entering drains.
- Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Holds businesses responsible for waste disposal compliance.
Who must comply?
Restaurants, cafés, takeaways, and food service establishments.
Any business that produces large amounts of FOG through cooking or cleaning.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to install and maintain a grease trap can result in:
- Fines up to £50,000 for sewer blockages.
- Legal action under environmental protection laws.
- Drainage repair costs, billed directly by water companies.
- Business closure orders for repeat offenders.
- Reputational damage, affecting customer trust and revenue.
Authorities actively monitor compliance, meaning non-compliance can lead to severe legal and financial consequences.
How to Stay Compliant
Protect your business by following these steps:
- Install a grease trap that fits your kitchen’s needs.
- Regular maintenance – Clean traps frequently to ensure proper function.
- Proper waste disposal – Train staff to dispose of grease correctly.
- Keep maintenance records – Proof of regular cleaning may be required during inspections.
How Marigolds Engineers Ltd. Can Help
At Marigolds Engineers Ltd., we specialise in grease trap installation, maintenance, and compliance for commercial kitchens. Our services help restaurants, cafés, and takeaways meet UK legal requirements while avoiding costly fines and plumbing issues.
Why choose us?
Expert Installation – We ensure your grease trap meets UK standards.
Regular Maintenance – Prevent blockages and avoid expensive repairs.
Compliance Support – Stay up to date with regulations.
Tailored Solutions – Custom services based on your business needs.
Don’t risk fines or business disruption—contact Marigolds Engineers Ltd. today!
Call us now or visit marigolds.uk.com for more information.