City of Santa Maria, California
Send A Message View To Print
graphic-horizontal line with shadow
City of Santa Maria, California, Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG), Utilities Department
  FATS, OILS & GREASE

What is FOG?

FOG stands for Fats, Oil and Grease. Did you know that pouring fats, oil and grease down the drain or garbage disposal creates obstructions in underground pipes and creates serious problems like blockages and sewer overflows?

When washed down the sink, grease sticks to the insides of your sewer pipes (both on your property and in the streets). Over time, grease buildup can clog an entire pipeline, causing sewer overflows in your home and neighborhood. The damage from overflows could cost you thousands of dollars!

photo of a drain pipe clogges with fats, oils and grease
Click photo for larger view.

Here are some simple tips on how to prevent sewer overflows.

Do not pour cooking oil, grease or greasy food down the drain.
Use strainers in the sink drains to catch food scraps and other solids.
Do not use hot water and soap to try to wash grease down the drain. It will eventually cool and harden in the sewer lines.
Pour cooled grease into a disposable container, cover with a tight fitting lid and place in your freezer. Once contents are frozen, toss it in the garbage.
Mix cooking oils with absorbent material such as coffee grounds or cat litter. Place in a tight lidded container and dispose of it in the garbage.
Wipe or scrape food particles from pots, pans and dishes into the trash can prior to placing them in the sink for washing.
Wipe excess fats and grease from pans with a dry paper towel and toss in the garbage.

photo of used cooking grease being poured into a can to be disposed of properly   photo of a skillet being wiped clean of oil or grease before washing

graphic-Return To Top    graphic-Back To Previous Page

Fats, Oils, & Grease (FOG)