The City of Virginia Beach has developed a public outreach program in order to help reduce the presence of Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) in our sanitary sewer system. Regulatory requirements from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Regional Special Order by Consent mandate that localities take measures to reduce Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs)--a violation of the EPA Clean Water Act. FOG discharged into public sewer systems is the leading cause of SSOs.  The FOG Program is designed to provide you with the proper tools and knowledge to prevent pipe blockages that cause backups and Sanitary Sewer Overflows.

Grease buildup occurs when Fats, Oils, and Grease produced from and aided in cooking end up in the sewer system. Whether you’re a Food Service Establishment, business, or resident of Virginia Beach who generates FOG, you play an important role in preventing Sanitary Sewer Overflows.

Public Utilities has partnered with Virginia Beach Restaurant Association (VBRA), Virginia Beach Hotel & Motel Association (VBHMA), Virginia Beach Public Schools, and local Grease Haulers to raise community awareness of the FOG Program. Below you will find a comprehensive list of FOG Program information and important resources. There are a number of ways you can help reduce the amount of FOG entering the sanitary sewer system by following Best Management Practices in the kitchen to properly dispose of Fats, Oils, and Grease. Doing so helps the environment, our health, and our economy.