Business owners are responsible for cleaning and maintaining sewer pipes that run from their facility to the main sewer line. If pipes become blocked, the facility’s own sewage may overflow. An overflow will force a food service establishment (FSE) to shut down to protect public health until proper sanitary sewer service is restored and the site can be cleaned. Generally, FSE sewer lines become plugged with the accumulation of fats, oils and grease (FOG). To prevent clogs and overflows, properly maintain a grease trap and use the BMPs referenced here. Drain cleaners and other chemicals should not be poured down the drain without first checking with the sewer authority as they can be toxic to humans and aquatic life once in local waterways.

Implementation 
DO:

• Consider a professional inspection and cleaning. The older the facility, the more likely your pipes may be in need of some repair. Moisture from small leaks in underground pipes attracts roots which can cause further damage. Look for “plumbing contractors” in the yellow pages. A contractor can clean sewer lines and remove any obstructing roots.
• Properly Dispose of Oil and Grease
• Conduct Activities in Designated Areas
• Locate your lateral with survey documents. Your lateral is the main pipe that runs from your facility to the street. You probably received survey documents when you purchased your business and they will indicate the lateral location. If you do not have these, your city planning or public works department at http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/ can provide them for view.
• Prevent roots from entering your lateral. Once you have located your lateral, landscape so that roots from tree and shrubs can’t reach it. Choose varieties that do not have shallow, spreading roots. Roots seek out the water and nutrients available in sewer lines and can grow into pipes and block them. Problem trees include poplars, willows, figs, rubber trees, large eucalyptus trees, fruitless mulberry and the Modesto ash. For more information visit http://www.sewersmart.org/prevention-4.html.

DON’T:

• Do not wait for a sewer overflow before you have your lateral and grease trap inspected and cleaned. A sewer overflow will shut down your business until sanitary conditions are restored. An overflow reaching the storm drain is illegal and may result in enforcement action, including fines.  Schedule routine maintenance as part of your ongoing facility maintenance. Clean up of an overflow will be much more expensive than an inspection and routine cleaning.
• Do not use chemicals to unclog drains or digesters to break down grease without first checking with your local sewer authority. Chemicals in these products can be toxic to humans and aquatic life.
• Do not wash oil, grease, and solids on the floor into floor drains. Instead, Clean Up Regularly with Dry Methods and Properly Collect and Dispose of Wash Water.

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