In Houston and other parts of Texas, managing plumbing isn’t just about handling leaks and clogs—it’s also about preventing environmental damage.
If you run a commercial kitchen or manage a food-service facility, you already know how critical a properly maintained grease trap is. But many businesses overlook the other half of the equation: the storm drain system.
These two systems might seem unrelated, but in reality, they’re more connected than you think.Improperly handled grease can end up in storm drains, especially during heavy rain or flooding. When that happens, the consequences can be messy, expensive, and legally complicated.
In this blog, we’ll break down how grease traps and storm drains work, how they affect each other, and why maintaining both is essential for businesses in Houston and across Texas.
What a Grease Trap Actually Does
Grease traps, also known as grease interceptors, are devices that capture fats, oils, and grease (FOG) before they enter the sewer system. In commercial kitchens, wastewater from dishwashers, sinks, and cooking equipment often carries significant amounts of grease. Without a grease trap in place, that material would travel down the pipes and harden as it cools, forming thick blockages that disrupt water flow.
Most cities in Texas, including Houston, require commercial kitchens to install and maintain grease traps as part of their local plumbing codes. These systems help reduce the load on wastewater treatment facilities and prevent costly pipe backups both on-site and downstream.
Grease traps typically need to be cleaned every one to three months, depending on kitchen volume. If they’re not cleaned regularly, they overflow, and excess grease can bypass the trap entirely—causing it to enter drains that were never meant to handle it.
Understanding the Role of Storm Drains in Texas
Storm drains are the large grates and curb openings you see on city streets. Their purpose is to carry rainwater away from buildings and roadways into natural water systems such as bayous, creeks, or detention ponds. In Texas, where flash floods and heavy storms are common, storm drains are crucial to keeping neighborhoods safe and preventing water damage.
But storm drains aren’t part of the sanitary sewer system. They’re not treated. That means anything entering a storm drain flows directly into the environment. When grease, food debris, or other contaminants make their way into storm drains—whether intentionally or by accident—they don’t just clog the system. They pollute Texas waterways and put wildlife and water quality at risk.
How Grease Traps and Storm Drains Are Connected
You might be wondering, “How does grease get from my kitchen into a storm drain?” The truth is, it happens more often than most businesses realize.
When a grease trap isn’t maintained, overflows can spill onto loading docks, back alleys, and parking lots. From there, grease and waste wash into storm drains during rain events. In other cases, staff may improperly dispose of kitchen grease by dumping it outside or into floor drains connected to the stormwater system—sometimes unknowingly.
This kind of contamination causes major problems. Hardened grease can block storm drain pipes the same way it clogs sanitary lines. The result is localized flooding, bad odors, and costly emergency cleanups. In Houston, blocked storm drains have been a growing concern during periods of heavy rain.
These issues aren’t just inconvenient—they’re illegal. Grease pollution in storm drains can lead to serious fines from the city and state. That’s why keeping your grease trap and stormwater system clean is a vital part of business compliance and environmental stewardship.
Environmental Impact & Legal Ramifications in Texas
Grease and food waste entering storm drains don’t just disappear. They end up in Texas rivers, bays, and estuaries. The impact includes oxygen depletion, damage to aquatic life, and water that’s unsafe for human use.
To combat this, the City of Houston runs an outreach program known as Protect Our Pipes, which educates food service establishments about the importance of proper grease disposal. Their guidelines clearly state that FOG violations may result in penalties, inspections, or even service termination for repeat offenders.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) also regulates wastewater discharge and has strict policies on pollutants entering municipal stormwater systems. Businesses found violating these regulations risk environmental citations and liability for cleanup costs.
Best Practices for Maintaining Both Systems
To avoid violations and prevent disasters, it’s important to take a proactive approach to maintenance. Here are some best practices for keeping your grease trap and storm drain systems in top shape:
- Stick to a strict grease trap cleaning schedule: Most commercial kitchens benefit from professional cleaning every 1–3 months depending on use.
- Never pour grease down sinks or floor drains: Instead, store used grease in sealed containers and use a licensed hauler for disposal.
- Inspect storm drains around your property: If you notice debris, pooling water, or slow drainage after rain, it may be time for a clean-out.
- Install screens and filters: These can prevent debris and trash from washing into storm grates.
- Train your team: Make sure staff know the difference between sanitary drains and storm drains, and understand the importance of proper disposal.
How TX Hydrojet Helps Keep Your System Compliant
At TX Hydrojet, we don’t just offer grease trap and storm drain services—we specialize in making sure both systems work together as they should. Our expert team can assess your entire setup, identify risks, and perform maintenance on a schedule that works for your business.
If something goes wrong—like a flooded storm drain or an overflowing grease interceptor—we’re available 24/7 to respond quickly. As an emergency Houston plumber, we understand how high the stakes can be when plumbing systems fail.
Our commercial services include:
- Hydrojetting for clogged storm drains
- Full grease trap pump-outs
- Preventive inspections and reporting
- Environmental compliance support
- Emergency response for backups and overflows
We serve businesses across Houston and surrounding areas, helping restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and facilities stay clean, safe, and within regulation.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait for a Mess
If you’ve been focusing on just one part of your plumbing system, now’s the time to step back and look at the big picture. Grease traps and storm drains play different roles, but both are essential for running a clean, compliant, and efficient business—especially in Houston’s fast-paced, storm-prone environment.
By maintaining both systems regularly, you’re not just preventing fines and emergencies. You’re protecting your business, your customers, and your community. Let TX Hydrojet help you stay ahead of the mess with experienced service and rapid response when you need it.
FAQs
How often should I clean my grease trap?
Most commercial kitchens should clean their grease traps every 30 to 90 days, depending on size and cooking volume.
Can grease go down storm drains during a flood?
It shouldn’t. Even during flooding, grease and food debris can harden and clog storm pipes, leading to worse drainage issues.
What fines can Houston businesses face for grease violations?
Fines vary but can reach thousands of dollars. Repeat offenders may also face permit suspension or business closure.
How do I know if my storm drain is clogged?
If water pools around drains after rain or you notice slow runoff, there’s likely a blockage that needs professional cleaning.
Does TX Hydrojet clean both grease traps and storm drains?
Yes. We’re equipped to handle both systems and ensure your business stays compliant with Houston plumbing codes.
What happens if grease enters the city’s stormwater system?
It pollutes local waterways, harms wildlife, and increases flood risk. It can also lead to costly cleanup and legal consequences.
Are grease traps required by law in Texas restaurants?
Yes. Most cities, including Houston, mandate grease traps for food service businesses and require regular maintenance.
What are signs my grease trap isn’t working properly?
Overflowing, foul odors, and slow drainage in kitchen sinks are common signs that the trap needs cleaning or repair.
How often should storm drains be inspected in Houston?
We recommend quarterly inspections, especially before and after storm season in the Gulf Coast region.
Can TX Hydrojet help during heavy rainfall or flooding?
Absolutely. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to storm drain blockages and water damage emergencies across Houston.
