Baxter City Code 8-2-16, “Regulation of Fats, Oils and Grease” regulates the discharge of fats, oils and grease (FOG) into the sanitary sewer system by food service establishments (FSE). FSE’s generate thousands of pounds of cooking oil, grease and food wastes each day in Baxter. Experience has shown that if this waste is not managed properly, it can result in several problems for the City sewer system and the wastewater treatment plant. The FOG will clog sewers resulting in sewer blockage and backups. Once at the wastewater treatment plant, the food wastes impart a significant load on the wastewater treatment processes, resulting in increased costs for treatment of the wastewater and decreased capacity for other users. The food wastes in the wastewater also contain significant pollutants that can impact the water quality in the Mississippi River.

Reduction of the grease and food waste discharges to the sewer will result in improved efficiency of the wastewater plant operations and, ultimately, a reduction of organics and nutrients entering the Mississippi River, which will help to protect and preserve our natural environment. Listed below are some PDF documents with more information about FOG. If you have any questions about FOG, please contact Building Official at 454-5114 or Public Works Director at 454-5115, or email publicworks@baxtermn.gov

Grease Trap Maintenance

Grease traps must be maintained in order to function properly. If grease traps are not maintained regularly, failure will result, leading to sewer blockages. You should perform routine inspections on a weekly basis to ensure the traps are working effectively. This simple BMP will ensure the trap is removing grease from the waste stream and helping to reduce FOG. Routine cleaning is fundamental to a proper functioning grease trap. 

Prevention Tips

• Display "No Grease" signage near drains
• Do not pour grease down the sink
• Install and maintain grease traps
• Install drain screens on all drains
• Remove all excess food prior to washing
• Train employees on proper disposal and maintenance methods

By having a preventative care program in place, you can save large unwanted costs. Implementing BMPs is the best approach and through the use of BMPs, owners and operators can avoid costly backups and higher user rates attributed by FOG. The sanitary system performs best in the absence of FOG.

Please do your part to help eliminate Fats, Oils and Grease from the city's sanitary system.