Grease & Sand Traps

The City of Knoxville operates and maintains the municipal sewer system. Commercial and some residential wastewater customers, including restaurants, food services (schools, hospitals, nursing homes, etc.) car washes, and other specific activities, utilize grease/oil/sand traps. These traps are required by Municipal Code 4-5-6 as outlined below:

4-5-6 Grease, Oil or Sand Traps (PDF)

Grease Trap

The grease/oil/sand traps are an important part of the sewer system that when properly maintained, prevent fats, oils and grease from building in the sewer system which prevents sewer back-ups and/or further damage. These traps are also required to be easily accessible for cleaning and inspection when necessary.

The City of Knoxville will schedule and complete inspections of grease and sand traps every six (6) months. The fee for the service is $100/year which is broken down to $8.35/month added to the sewer bill. Failure to have the inspection completed will result in a municipal infraction.

Inspection Document (PDF)

Best Management Practices (PDF)

If you have any questions, please contact the City of Knoxville, Wastewater Department at (641) 828-0587 or by email. Thank you for helping the City clean and maintain the municipal sewer system.