Fats, Oils, and Grease Disposal

Why Proper Disposal Matters

Properly disposing of fats, oils, and grease (often called FOG) helps protect your home’s plumbing and our community’s wastewater system. Fats, oils, and grease may be liquid when warm, but they cool and solidify as they move through pipes. This buildup can restrict flow, damage infrastructure, and increase the risk of sewage overflows. Over time, this can lead to backups, overflows, and costly repairs.

What Counts as Fats, Oil, and Grease?

1

Cooking oils and shortening

2

Butter, lard, and margarine

3

Meat drippings and gravy

4

Dairy products and creamy sauces

5

Salad dressings and marinades

6

Food scraps with oily residue

A person pours liquid from a pan into a plastic bottle labeled "FOG" using a funnel; a jar with the same label is nearby on the kitchen counter.

How to Dispose of FOG Safely

The best way to dispose of fats, oils, and grease is to let them cool, pour them into a sealed container, and throw them in the trash. You can also wipe greasy pans and plates with a paper towel before washing them.

Never pour grease down the sink or toilet, even if you run hot water afterward.

Helpful Tips for Your Kitchen

• Scrape food scraps into the trash instead of rinsing them down the drain
• Use sink strainers to catch leftover food
• Avoid using your garbage disposal for greasy foods
• Wipe dishes before washing
• Teach everyone in your household about proper FOG disposal

Protecting Our Community

Keeping fats, oils, and grease out of the sewer system helps protect local waterways, prevents backups, and reduces the need for emergency repairs. Small habits in your kitchen can make a big difference for the whole community.