Yes, most new restaurants in Coeur d'Alene need a grease trap before opening. It keeps fats, oils, and grease out of sewer pipes. This is why grease trap installation in Coeur d'Alene should be on your opening checklist.
This guide covers rules, permits, sizing, placement, cost, timing, and common mistakes.
Do New Restaurants In Coeur d'Alene Need A Grease Trap
Yes, food service sites that drain to the city sewer are often required to add a grease device. Coeur d'Alene code requires grease and oil interceptors when wastewater can carry grease. Start with the grease interceptor rule and the city's Pretreatment Program, which covers sewer discharge rules for businesses.
Grease control also lowers backup risk. The U.S. EPA reports that grease is the most common cause of reported sewer blockages in its cited data set, accounting for 47%. See the EPA pretreatment guide. For local planning help, start with Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Coeur d'Alene.
What Permits or Inspections Are Needed in Coeur d'Alene
Most new restaurants need a plumbing permit and city inspections before opening. Some projects also need sewer review for grease control. Use the city Permits and Licenses page to confirm what applies.
Common steps:
- Plumbing permit for new drain work
- Rough and final plumbing inspections
- Food business license steps with the health district
Grease Trap Vs Grease Interceptor For A New Kitchen
What Is The Difference Between A Grease Trap And A Grease Interceptor
A grease trap is smaller and often sits inside. A grease interceptor is larger and often goes outside in the ground. Both slow the flow so grease can float and solids can settle.
| Feature | Grease Trap | Grease Interceptor |
| Location | Under sink or near prep | Outside, in ground |
| Capacity | Smaller | Larger |
| Best fit | Light grease load | Heavy grease load |
| Service | Manual cleanout | Pump truck service |
Which One Should A New Restaurant Use
Most full kitchens need an interceptor because the grease load is higher. A small trap may fit a light prep shop, but it can fail fast if volume grows.
If you need a plan review, our commercial plumbing services team can help.
Grease Trap Size And Placement Basics in Coeur d'Alene
What Size Grease Trap Does My Restaurant Need
Size depends on sink count, sink size, dish machines, and menu grease. Use this quick checklist.
- List sinks that make greasy water.
- Add sink bowl size and bowl count.
- Note any dish machine or dump station.
- Mark the grease load as low, medium, or high.
A plumber uses code and sizing charts to pick the final unit.
Menu Clues That Often Mean A Larger Interceptor
- Fryers, grills, or a wok line
- High dish volume on weekends or tourist season
- A big three bay sink and a pre rinse sprayer
Where Should A Grease Trap Be Installed In A New Kitchen
A grease device should go on the kitchen waste line before it ties into the main sewer line. It should not serve restrooms.
Good placement rules:
- Put it after prep and dish sinks.
- Keep lids easy to reach for service.
- Leave pump truck access for in ground units.
- Use strainers to stop food scraps.
Cost and Timeline for Grease Trap Installation in Coeur d'Alene
How Much Does Grease Trap Installation Cost For A New Restaurant
Cost depends on the unit type and site work. Small indoor traps can cost hundreds of dollars in equipment. Large in ground interceptors can cost thousands for the tank, plus digging and concrete work. One industry guide lists $250 to $1,500 for some small unit equipment ranges.
Main cost drivers:
- Size and type
- New piping and vents
- Excavation and concrete work
- Permit fees and inspection timing
To scope the work early, schedule grease trap installation during the buildout phase.
How Long Does Grease Trap Installation Take Before A Grand Opening
A small indoor install can often be done in one day. An in ground interceptor can take several days, plus inspection timing. A safe plan is to start two to four weeks before opening.
If your date is close, call (855) 982-2028 to plan next steps.
Common Grease Trap Failures After Installation in Coeur d'Alene
What Mistakes Cause Grease Trap Failures After Installation
Most early failures come from sizing, access, or poor upkeep. A grease trap is not a magic box. These mistakes show up fast.
Common mistakes:
- The unit is too small for the menu.
- Location is hard to reach for service.
- The dish machine flow hits a small trap.
- Grease or oil goes into the sink.
- Pumping gets skipped for too long.
How Often Should A Grease Trap Be Pumped Or Cleaned
Pump or clean before grease and solids build up. Coeur d'Alene code points to cleaning before the unit is about one quarter full. Many kitchens need service every 1 to 4 weeks, based on volume.
When you need grease trap pumping, plan it before that one quarter mark.
Final Thoughts
Yes, new restaurants in Coeur d'Alene often need a grease trap or grease interceptor before opening. Good sizing, placement, and service help protect drains and keep you open. For help from Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Coeur d'Alene, call (855) 982-2028 or start a Request Job Estimate.
