F.O.G. Program

Jackson Energy Authority’s wastewater system is not designed to be a disposal and cannot handle fats, oils and grease (F.O.G.) that gets washed down the drain. Any time dishes get rinsed/washed, floors get cleaned and equipment gets sanitized, residuals from the process can get washed down the drain of the facility and enter the wastewater system. The FOG coats and sticks to the insides of the wastewater pipes, which causes buildup. The buildup can restrict the flow of wastewater causing backups and overflows.

Grease related overflows or backups can result in raw sewage overflowing into homes, businesses, streets, yards, parks and waterways, exposing harmful disease-causing organisms. Additionally, cleanup and repairs from damage due to grease related backups create excessive maintenance costs, which could result in increased wastewater rates.

Jackson Energy Authority F.O.G. Program

All existing, proposed or newly remodeled food service facilities, restaurants, institutional or commercial kitchens inside the Jackson Energy Authority wastewater service area which are likely to discharge grease to JEA’s wastewater system are required to participate in the F.O.G. program.

Existing restaurants are given 180 days to install an approved grease interceptor at the user’s expense. This 180-day period includes a maximum of 90 days to submit plans and obtain JEA’s approval. After plans approval, the remaining time will be applied to the installation.  This can be modified at the discretion of Jackson Energy Authority.

F.O.G. Program Requirements

• Required facilities must install an approved, properly operated and maintained grease interceptor
• Each interceptor must be easily accessible for inspection, cleaning and removal of the intercepted grease at any time
• Jackson Energy Authority will manage pumping and removal of the intercepted grease
• Each interceptor must be pumped out completely on a monthly basis; however, frequency could increase or decrease as determined by Jackson Energy Authority
• All pumpout from grease interceptors must be tracked by a manifest which confirms pumping, hauling and disposal of waste
• Owners are responsible for any grease interceptor maintenance issues and fixes.
• Jackson Energy Authority must be the first point of contact if a grease-related backup is suspected

In the Event of a Spill

Spillage from a grease interceptor on the ground, in facilities, homes or waterways is a health risk to the public and to the environment.

• Contact Jackson Energy Authority to have the interceptor pumped
• Wear protective gear and begin cleanup immediately
• Do not use detergents, enzymes or degreasers to clean the spill
• Prevent spillage from entering nearby storm drains or sewers
• Do not wash anything related to cleanup into streets or drains
• Dispose of all materials used for cleanup into dumpsters or garbage cans

For more information regarding Jackson Energy Authority’s F.O.G. Program, please call 731-422-7541.