Quick answer: Health inspectors check that your grease trap is properly installed, not overfull, free of damage, and that you have current service records on file. The 25% rule applies: your trap must not have FOG and solids exceeding 25% of total liquid depth. Missing records or an overfull trap are the two most common reasons restaurants fail grease trap inspections in Arkansas.
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A failed grease trap inspection can mean a written violation, mandatory re-inspection, and in serious cases a temporary closure. The good news: passing is straightforward if you know what inspectors are looking for and stay on top of maintenance.
Use this checklist before your next inspection — and as an ongoing reference for keeping your grease trap compliant year-round.
What Health Inspectors Look For in Your Grease Trap
Inspectors typically evaluate four areas:
- Physical condition: The trap lid, baffles, inlet and outlet pipes, and body should be intact and undamaged.
- Fill level: The 25% rule — combined FOG and solids must not exceed 25% of total liquid depth.
- Service documentation: You must have pump-out records available showing licensed, recent service.
- Compliance with local ordinances: Your trap must meet local size and installation requirements for your kitchen’s output.
The Grease Trap Inspection Checklist (Print and Keep)
Documentation Checklist
- Service records for the past 12 months on file and accessible
- Provider name, license number, and contact info recorded
- Date of last pump-out documented
- Service manifests or disposal receipts available
Physical Condition Checklist
- Trap lid is secure, undamaged, and properly sealed
- Inlet and outlet baffles are intact and functional
- No visible cracks, leaks, or corrosion on the trap body
- Trap is accessible — not blocked by equipment or built over
Fill Level Checklist
- FOG and solids layer is below 25% of total liquid depth
- No active overflow or backup visible
- No foul odors indicating a near-full or blocked trap
Kitchen Practices Checklist
- Staff trained — no fats, oils, or grease poured directly down drains
- Grease collection containers in place near fryers
- Floor drain covers clean and not blocked by grease buildup
The Most Common Inspection Failures — and How to Avoid Them
- Missing or outdated service records: Keep a physical binder with all pump-out receipts. Our grease trap maintenance checklist includes a log template.
- Trap too full: Don’t wait for backups to schedule service. Use the 25% rule proactively.
- Damaged baffles: A broken baffle is an automatic fail. Have baffles inspected at every service visit.
- Unlicensed service provider: Records from an unlicensed hauler may not be accepted. Always use licensed providers who document their work.
- Trap inaccessible: Inspectors need to be able to access and open the trap. Don’t store equipment on top of the access lid.
How to Maintain Records That Pass Inspection
The simplest system: a physical folder or binder stored in your office with:
- One sheet per service visit: date, provider, what was done
- Provider license number on file
- Disposal receipts or manifests
Ozark Grease Pros provides a signed service record after every visit. Request scheduled grease trap maintenance to ensure your records stay current automatically.
What to Do If You Fail a Grease Trap Inspection
Don’t panic. Here’s the process:
- Get service immediately: Call for emergency grease trap service if the failure was due to fill level. Same-day or next-day service is often available.
- Get documentation: Make sure you receive a service record after the pump-out.
- Respond to the violation notice: Follow the instructions on your violation notice — most require you to provide service documentation within a set timeframe.
- Address the root cause: If baffles are damaged, get them replaced. If your trap is undersized, talk to us about your options.
- Request re-inspection: Once corrected, contact your local health department to schedule a follow-up.
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Conclusion / TL;DR — Key Takeaways
- Health inspectors check trap condition, fill level, documentation, and physical integrity.
- The 25% rule is the key fill threshold — exceed it and you’re at risk of failing.
- Missing service records are the #1 cause of inspection failures — keep a binder with all receipts.
- Use the checklist in this article before every inspection and after every service visit.
- If you fail, get service immediately and document the corrective action for re-inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do health inspectors check when they inspect a grease trap?
Inspectors check four main areas: the physical condition of the trap (lid, baffles, pipes), the fill level (must be below 25% FOG and solids), service documentation (current pump-out records from a licensed provider), and compliance with local size and installation requirements.
What is the 25% rule for grease traps?
The 25% rule states that the combined layer of FOG (floating grease) on top and solids (settled at the bottom) should not exceed 25% of the trap’s total liquid depth. Most FOG compliance programs use this as the mandatory pump-out threshold. Exceeding 25% during an inspection is typically recorded as a violation.
How long should I keep grease trap service records?
Most local FOG programs require you to keep records for a minimum of three years, though keeping records for the full life of your business is best practice. Inspectors typically ask to see records from the past 12 months during routine inspections.
What happens if I fail a grease trap inspection in Arkansas?
You’ll receive a written violation notice requiring corrective action within a specified timeframe — usually 30 days or less. You’ll need to document the corrective action (service records, repair receipts) and may be required to pass a follow-up inspection. Repeat failures escalate to larger fines and potential permit action.
Can Ozark Grease Pros provide documentation for my grease trap inspection?
Yes. We provide a signed service record after every pump-out that documents the date, provider, work performed, and trap condition. This is the documentation inspectors are looking for. We also offer scheduled maintenance programs so your records stay current automatically.
