Wastewater Department

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Oil & Grease Permits

RESTAURANTS & FOOD SERVICES PERMITS REQUIRED

Businesses that make and prepare food are required to participate in Bardstown's FOG (Fat, Oil, & Grease) Program.  There is no fee associated with the program but a means to educate the food service industry about the importance of keeping our sewer system FOG free.  Grease traps are needed in most instances to capture the food oil/grease from dishwashing and cleaning practices so that it doesn't solidfy and clog the public sewer main.  Guidelines for sizing a grease trap can be found below.   For an application click here.
Guidelines for Grease traps

MECHANIC & FLEET MAINTENANCE (NON-FOOD) PERMITS REQUIRED

Businesses that perform automotive and machine maintenance also have a risk of discharging oil, gas, and grease used for mechanical lubrication to the sanitary sewer system through floor drains.  These substances are also prohibited discharges and can cause blockages in the sewer main as well as a dangers being volatile. 
Thus, there is a Non-Food FOG Permit Application for facilities that fall in this category.   There is a set of guidelines that can be followed to help size oil water separators.  Contact the Bardstown Engineering Department if you have further questions or comments.

FOG PROGRAM

Fats, Oils, and Greases can cause problems with the operation of the city's sanitary sewer system by sticking to the inside of pipes and eventually clogging them. This can cause sewer backups and sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), possibly in your home or yard.

FOG 1   FOG 2   FOG 3

FOG consists of fats, oils and greases from cooking and food waste
 
  • Meat fats
  • Sauces and dressings
  • Cooking oil
  • Shortening
  • Butter
  • Frying oil
  • Margarine
  • Lard
  • Dairy products
 FOG Clogs             

Overflowing sewers release bacteria, viruses and other pathogens that may be dangerous to human health. When sewer pipes on private property back up, the homeowner is responsible for the cleanup. Other costs associated with SSO’s include disinfecting, sampling and testing, and potential enforcement actions. Residents and business owners can help control the problem by properly disposing of fat, oil and grease.

Simple steps to keep your plumbing working well

  • Pour FOG into a sealable container and allow it to cool.  Dispose of it in the trash.
  • Scrape food scraps into the trash.
  • Wipe cookware and dishes with a paper towel before washing them to remove FOG.
  • Limit using your garbage disposal. Grinding food up does not eliminate FOG.
  • Place strainers in your sink to catch food. Dispose of the scraps in the trash.

What Not To Flush