Understanding Miami-Dade Certificate of Use: Who Needs a Grease Trap?
Improper grease disposal costs Miami-Dade County millions of dollars annually in sewer repairs and maintenance. To address this, businesses in the food service industry are required to comply with strict regulations, including obtaining a Miami-Dade Certificate of Use and implementing proper grease management systems.
This guide explains who needs a grease trap, how to obtain necessary permits, and what steps are required to maintain compliance with DERM (Department of Environmental Resources Management) regulations.
Understanding DERM and FOG Regulations
What is DERM and Its Role?
The Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) oversees environmental protection in Miami-Dade County, specifically focusing on monitoring and controlling FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) discharge into the sanitary sewer system. DERM enforces regulations that protect the environment and county infrastructure while ensuring businesses comply with local codes.
FOG Program Overview
The FOG program requires food service establishments to obtain a Grease Discharge Operating (GDO) Permit. The program applies to facilities such as:
Restaurants and bakeries
Hotel and cafeteria kitchens
Commercial food preparation areas
Healthcare facility kitchens
Food processing plants
Certificate of Use Requirements
Who Needs a Grease Trap?
According to DERM guidelines, any non-residential facility that handles, prepares, or processes food must install a grease trap and obtain a FOG Discharge Control Operating Permit. Businesses requiring this include:
Restaurants, cafés, and cafeterias
Supermarkets and food courts
Hotels and banquet facilities
Healthcare facility kitchens (e.g., hospitals, nursing homes)
Schools and daycare centers with food preparation
Compliance Requirements
To operate legally, businesses must meet the following conditions:
Obtain a Certificate of Use: Mandatory for all food service establishments.
Install Approved Grease Traps: Systems must meet local codes and DERM standards.
Renew Permits Annually: All permits expire on December 31st and require renewal.
Maintain Proper Documentation: Maintain grease trap maintenance logs and cleaning records.
Grease Trap Installation Guidelines
Size and Capacity Requirements
Grease trap size is determined by your facility’s flow rate and grease output. Standard guidelines include:
Flow rates up to 75 GPM: Suitable for smaller operations.
Flow rates exceeding 100 GPM: Require larger-capacity systems.
For extensive operations: Multiple units should be equally spaced for optimal flow.
Installation and Accessibility
Grease traps must be installed by a licensed plumber and meet the following requirements:
Location: Units must be placed on a solid, level surface near the fixtures being served.
Ground Preparation:
Excavate an area 12 inches wider than the tank.
Lay a 6-inch deep layer of crushed aggregate.
Stabilize soil and compact subgrade to 95% Proctor.
Verification: Ensure components like flow controls, covers, and risers are correctly installed.
Certification Process
Pre-Installation: Verify proper sizing and functionality of the grease trap system.
Post-Installation: Licensed plumbers must fill the unit with water before backfilling and secure all components. Final approval is required from DERM inspectors.
The Permit Application Process
The process for obtaining a FOG Operating Permit and Certificate of Use follows a clear structure:
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Municipal Approval: Apply for a Certificate of Use or municipal license.
DERM Review:
Access DERM’s online portal.
Submit a completed FOG Operating Permit application.
Upload required documents, including business name, facility square footage, and grease trap specifications.
Documentation Requirements:
FOG Generator Disclosure Statement (required for property owners).
Notarized signatures from authorized representatives.
Processing Timeline
Permit approval typically takes 30 days.
Permits remain valid for one year (January 1st – December 31st).
Renewal notices are sent 45 days before expiration.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid:
Business name inconsistencies with state records.
Missing or incomplete grease trap specifications.
Missing signatures or documentation.
Compliance and Maintenance
Regular Maintenance Requirements
Compliance requires regular cleaning and inspection of grease traps to ensure proper operation. Key maintenance points include:
Frequency: Follow DERM-specified cleaning schedules based on your facility’s size and FOG volume.
Licensed Haulers: Use only DERM-approved haulers for grease trap pump-outs.
Record-Keeping: Maintain logs and receipts for all cleaning and maintenance activities.
Documentation Obligations
Maintenance logs must be kept on-site and accessible for DERM inspections.
Records must include:
Dates of cleaning and pump-outs.
Service provider details.
Repair and maintenance history.
Retain records for a minimum of 3 years.
Failure to maintain records or meet cleaning schedules may result in fines, permit revocation, or enforcement actions.
Conclusion
Proper grease trap management and compliance with DERM regulations are essential for obtaining a Miami-Dade Certificate of Use. By adhering to installation guidelines, cleaning schedules, and permit requirements, businesses can:
Avoid costly fines and penalties.
Protect Miami-Dade County’s sewer infrastructure.
Operate efficiently and responsibly.
At Grease Trap FL, we provide complete grease trap solutions, including:
Engineering design and permit assistance
Grease trap installation and maintenance
Violation corrections and compliance reviews
Contact Us Today for professional guidance on DERM compliance and grease trap management:
📞 Call: 786-841-1991
🌐 Visit: www.greasetrapfl.com
