[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
Unless the context specifically and clearly indicates otherwise,
the meaning of the terms used in this Part shall be as follows:
AUTHORIZED AGENT
The Township has delegated the Newtown, Bucks County, Joint
Municipal Authority to carry out the provisions of this Part.
AUTHORITY
The Newtown, Bucks County, Joint Municipal Authority, its
employees and/or its Engineer.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE
Schedules of activities, prohibitions of practices, maintenance
procedures and other management practices to prevent or reduce the
introduction of fats/oils/greases (FOG) to the sewer facilities. (Available
upon request.)
DISCHARGE
The introduction of wastewater into the Newtown, Bucks County,
Joint Municipal Authority sewer system.
DISPOSAL
The discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking
or placing of any solid or semi-solid grease interceptor waste into
or on any land or water so that such wastewater or any constituent
thereof may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged
into any waters, including ground waters.
DISPOSAL FACILITY OPERATOR
An individual who is authorized to accept or reject liquid
waste at a disposal site, and who is authorized to sign a manifest.
DISPOSAL SITE
A permitted site or part of a site at which grease interceptor
waste is processed, treated and/or intentionally placed into or on
any land in a manner compliant with all applicable Federal, State,
and local regulations, and at which site said wastewater will remain
after closure.
EMULSIFIERS AND/OR DE-EMULSIFIERS
Any substance or substances which, when added or placed into
a grease interceptor, will form an oily substance into a milky fluid
in which the fat globules are in a very finely divided state and are
held in suspension, giving it the semblance of a solution.
EXISTING FACILITY
Any building, structure or installation from which there
is or may be a discharge of wastewater, the construction of which
started before the adoption of this Part.
FATS, OILS AND GREASE DISCHARGE LICENSE (FOG LICENSE)
The license issued to a new or existing facility that grants
the facility permission to discharge its wastewater into the Authority's
sewer system under the conditions of this Part.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
FOG
Any substance, such as a vegetable, animal or other product
that is used in, or is a by-product of, the cooking or food preparation
process, and that turns or may turn viscous or solidifies with a change
in temperature or other conditions.
FOOD COURTS
Areas predominantly found in shopping centers or festivals
where several food preparation establishments having different owners
may be sharing seating space and/or plumbing facilities.
FOOD ESTABLISHMENT
Any new or existing facility that cuts, cooks, bakes, prepares
or serves food, or which disposes of food-related wastes and/or which
has a local, State, and/or Federal food establishment license.
GARBAGE GRINDER
A device that shreds or grinds up solid or semisolid waste
materials into smaller portions for discharge into the sewer system
including a food scrap disposal system.
GENERATOR
A new or existing facility that causes, creates, generates,
stores, or otherwise produces wastewater from on-site process operations,
whether domestically or commercially generated. The generator is responsible
for assuring that the produced wastewater is disposed of in accordance
with all Federal, State and local disposal regulations.
GREASE
Waxes, free fatty acids, calcium and magnesium soaps, mineral
oils and certain other non-fatty material from animal or vegetable
sources, or from hydrocarbons of petroleum origins, commonly found
in wastewater from food preparation and food service. Grease may originate
from, but not be limited to, discharges from scullery sinks, pot and
pan sinks, dishwashing machines, soup kettles and floor drains located
in areas where grease-containing materials may exist.
GREASE INTERCEPTOR
A watertight receptacle utilized by commercial or industrial
generators of liquid waste to intercept, collect and restrict, the
passage of grease into the sewer system to which the receptacle is
directly or indirectly connected, and to separate and retain grease
from the wastewater discharged. Grease interceptors are generally
required to be located underground between the food establishment
and the connection to the sewer system.
GREASE INTERCEPTOR WASTE
Any grease or organic or inorganic solid or semi-solid waste
collected and intercepted by a grease interceptor, usually in layers
of floatable, suspended, and settleable substances, which are ultimately
removed from a grease interceptor for proper disposal.
GREASE TRAP
A grease control device that is used to serve individual
fixtures with a capacity of five to 50 gallons, located inside the
food establishment.
INSPECTION PORT
Openings with easily opened covers, designed to allow authorized
agents quick access to the inlet flow control device, each compartment
of the grease interceptor, and the effluent.
LICENSEE
A person issued a license under this Part, including any
agent, employee, or authorized person of the licensee.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
LIVING QUARTERS
A new or existing facility, or an area of a new or existing
facility, where a person or family has a distinct living area, which
includes individual kitchen and bath facilities, utilized solely by
that single person or family.
MANAGER
The person, regardless of actual title, immediately on site
at a location conducting, supervising, managing, or representing the
activities of a generator, or a transporter.
MANIFEST
The written, multi-part form used as documentation and required
to be in the possession of the generator, transporter, and disposal
site to document the generation, receipt, transportation, and disposal
of grease interceptor waste at a permitted or registered disposal
site, and specifying the identity of the generator, transporter, and
disposal facility operator and the volume of grease interceptor waste
disposed.
MONITORING PORT
An inspection port large enough to allow temporary installation
of monitoring devices such as samplers, strip recorders, flow meters,
or other such measuring and/or monitoring devices.
NEW FACILITY
(1)
Any new building, structure, facility, or installation from
which there is (or may be) discharge of wastewater, the construction
of which commenced after the adoption of this Part, provided that:
(a)
The building, structure, facility, or installation is constructed
at a site at which no other wastewater source is located.
(b)
The building, structure, facility, or installation totally replaces
the process or production equipment that causes the discharge of wastewater
at the site.
(c)
The production processes or wastewater generating processes
of the building, structure, facility, or installation are substantially
independent of an existing wastewater source at the same site. In
determining whether these are substantially independent, factors such
as the extent to which the new facility is integrated with the existing
facility, and the extent to which the new facility is engaged in the
same general type of activity as the existing wastewater source should
be considered.
(d)
Any remodeling or modification that results in a new facility
as determined by the Township.
(2)
Construction on a site at which an existing wastewater source
is located results in a modification rather than a new wastewater
source if the construction does not create a new building, structure,
facility, or installation meeting the criteria of clause (b) or (c)
above, but otherwise alters, replaces, or adds to existing process
or production equipment.
(3)
Construction of a new wastewater source as defined under this
paragraph has commenced if the owner or operator has:
(a)
Begun, or caused to begin, as part of a continuous on-site construction
program any placement, assembly, or installation of facilities or
equipment; or significant site preparation work including clearing,
excavation, or removal of existing buildings, structures, or facilities
which is necessary for the placement, assembly, or installation of
new source facilities or equipment.
(b)
Entered into a binding contractual obligation for the purchase
of facilities or equipment, which are intended to be used in its operation
within a reasonable time. Options to purchase or contract, which can
be terminated or modified without substantial loss, and contracts
for feasibility, engineering and design studies, do not constitute
a contractual obligation under this paragraph.
NPDES
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System as administered
by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP).
OILS AND GREASE
Any material, but particularly biological lipids and mineral
hydrocarbons, that is recovered as a substance soluble in an organic
extracting solvent using an appropriate analytical method approved
under 40 CFR § 136. It also includes other material extracted
by the solvent from an acidified sample and not volatilized during
the extraction procedure.
OWNER
Any person vested with ownership, legal or equitable, sole
or partial, of any property located in the Township.
PERSON
Any individual, partnership, company, association, corporation
or other group or entity.
REASONABLE HOURS
Any time during which a facility is open for business to
the public. It shall also include those times when a facility is closed
to the public when a manager, employees, and/or contractors are present
at the facility and involved in cleanup or food preparation, or any
other business activity.
SEWER SYSTEM
The sanitary sewer system owned by the Newtown, Bucks County,
Joint Municipal Authority, including mains, interceptors, pumping
stations, force mains, and other related wastewater facilities.
SHOPPING CENTER
A group of architecturally unified commercial establishments
built on a site that is planned, developed, owned, and managed as
an operation unit for sale or lease, with on-site parking in definite
relationship to the types and sizes of stores at the site.
SUPERVISORS
The Supervisors of Newtown Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
TOWNSHIP
Newtown Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
TRANSPORTER
A user who transfers grease interceptor waste from the site
of a generator to an approved disposal site. The transporter is responsible
for assuring that all Federal, State and local regulations are followed
regarding wastewater transport.
TWENTY-FIVE PERCENT RULE
If the depth of scum and solids in the interceptor exceeds
25% of the usable volume, then the grease interceptor must be pumped
out.
WASTEWATER
The liquid and water-carried wastes from dwellings, commercial
establishments, industrial facilities and institutions, whether treated
or untreated.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. Wastewater that contains FOG shall be discharged into the sewer system
only under the conditions of this Part. The following facilities shall
discharge all wastewater from sinks, dishwashers, drains, and any
other fixtures through which grease may be discharged, into an adequately
sized, properly maintained and functioning grease interceptor before
the discharge enters the sewer system:
A. Every commercial food establishment.
C. All other generators discharging grease in amounts that, in the opinion
of an authorized agent, will, alone or in concert with other substances
from the discharges of other facilities, have a reasonable chance
to impede or stop the flow of the sewer system.
2. All areas of intensified dwelling, including, but not limited to,
adult day care facilities, assisted living facilities, convalescent
homes, day nursing and child care facilities, in which food preparation
occurs, homes for the mentally challenged, hotels, maternity homes,
motels in which there is a commercial food preparation service, nursing
homes, retirement and life care communities and homes, and truck stops
with commercial food service, shall be required to have grease interceptors.
Modifications to existing facilities that do not add new buildings
or new grease generating activities are exempt from this requirement.
3. Grease interceptors shall not be required for single-family residences,
duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, or apartment complexes, unless an
authorized agent first determines there are discharges from the property
that may create problems in the sewer system. The determination shall
be made based upon an investigation of the property, and a comparison
of the content and amount of discharge from the property with the
discharges of other properties similar in size and use. Upon a determination
that the discharges will create problems in the sewer system, the
authorized agent may require the installation of a sufficiently sized
grease interceptor to treat the discharges.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. On or after the effective date of this Part, an existing facility
shall be required to install an approved, adequately sized, and properly
operated and maintained grease interceptor when any of the following
conditions exist:
A. It is found by an authorized agent to be contributing grease in quantities
sufficient to cause sewer line stoppages or necessitate increased
maintenance on the sewer system in order to keep main line stoppages
from occurring.
B. It is remodeling the food preparation or kitchen waste plumbing facilities
in such a manner to be subject to a license.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
C. Its grease interceptor allows a discharge of oil and grease in excess
of 100 milligrams per liter (mg/l) and the generator does not perform
best management practices.
2. Existing facilities required by this or other applicable ordinances
to maintain a grease interceptor and that are not equipped with a
grease interceptor or are equipped with an undersized grease interceptor
shall, within 180 days of the effective date of this Part, install
an adequately sized grease interceptor in accordance with the specifications
of this Part.
3. If the Township's authorized agent (Authority) determines that there
is a need for installation or upgrading of a grease interceptor on
an existing facility, the Authority may order the installation or
upgrading of such interceptors. If the Authority orders such installation
or upgrade, then the Authority shall serve notice by registered or
certified mail upon the owner of such premises. The owner may request
and shall be granted a hearing before the Authority. Such hearing
shall be requested by filing a petition, in writing, stating the grounds
of the petition within five days after notice of the authorized agent's
decision and paying an administration fee in an amount as established
from time to time by resolution of the Authority. The hearing shall
commence within 30 days of filing of the petition unless postponed
for good cause. After such hearing the Authority shall sustain, modify
or overrule the action of the authorized agent.
4. The Authority may waive the requirement for a grease interceptor
provided the generator can verify that only domestic wastewater is
being discharged. The Authority may require testing by the generator
in connection with this request, with all costs for this testing being
the generator's expense.
5. New facilities required by this or other applicable ordinances to
maintain a grease interceptor shall install such a unit prior to commencement
of discharge to the sewer system.
6. On or after the effective date of this Part, any existing facility
or new facility that is required to utilize a grease interceptor must
obtain a FOG license from the Authority.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. The following prohibitions shall apply:
A. Where FOG are a by-product of food preparation and/or cleanup, reasonable
efforts shall be made to separate waste oil and grease into a separate
container for proper disposal and not to discharge such FOG into any
drains or grease interceptors. In no event shall waste oil or grease
be directly discharged into any drains or grease interceptors. Such
waste must be placed in a container designed to hold such waste and
disposed of at a suitable location.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
B. None of the following agents shall be placed directly into a grease
interceptor, or into any drain that leads to the grease interceptor:
(1)
Emulsifiers, de-emulsifiers, surface active agents, enzymes,
degreasers, or any type of product that will liquefy grease interceptor
wastes.
(2)
Any substance that may cause excessive foaming in the sewer
system.
(3)
Any substance capable of passing the solid or semi-solid contents
of the grease interceptor to the sewer system.
(4)
Illegal discharge items, such as hazardous wastes including,
but not limited to, acids, strong cleaners, pesticides, herbicides,
paint, solvents, or gasoline.
(5)
Use of grease interceptor treatment products, including bacteria
designed to digest grease, is specifically prohibited without prior
written consent of the Authority.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
(a)
Acceptance of such products for use may be considered only where
a valid screening test, showing the product's ability to treat
wastewater and to produce an effluent in compliance with this Part,
has been performed in accordance with methods outlined and approved
by the Authority.
(b)
If a product is approved, each generator must obtain written
permission from the Authority to use each proposed product.
C. The influent to grease interceptors shall not exceed 140° F.
The temperature at the flow control device inspection port shall be
considered equivalent to the temperature of the influent.
D. Toilets, urinals, and other similar fixtures shall not discharge
through a grease interceptor.
E. All waste shall only enter the grease interceptor through the inlet
flow control device, then the inlet pipe.
F. Where food-waste grinders are installed in a nonresidential establishment,
the waste from those units shall discharge directly into the building
drainage system without passing through a grease interceptor.
G. The concentration of FOG that can be discharged to the sewer system
shall not exceed 100 mg/l if the generator does not perform best management
practices.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. All new and existing facilities, both commercial and industrial,
dealing with grease shall, at the licensee's expense and as required
by the Authority:
A. Provide an adequately sized and properly constructed grease interceptor.
B. Maintain backup copies of manifests and service logs, on the premises
of the existing facility, for at least five years.
C. Generators are responsible for maintaining grease interceptors in
continuous proper working condition. Further, generators are responsible
for inspecting, repairing, replacing, or installing apparatus and
equipment as necessary to ensure proper operation and function of
grease interceptors and compliance with discharge limitations at all
times.
D. Allow inspection of the facility and records by authorized agents
during reasonable hours.
2. Grease Interceptor Sizing and Design Criteria.
A. Size, type, and location of grease interceptors shall be as provided
in the manufacturer's instructions and/or in accordance with
any other applicable provision of the then-current Pennsylvania UCC
Plumbing Code or as provided under Authority regulation, as determined
by the Authority.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
B. Applicability. These requirements are applicable to all commercial
food establishments, including those that are undergoing:
(2)
Interior remodeling to accommodate expansion or operational
modifications.
(3)
Changes of ownership/occupancy.
(4)
Existing facilities that may be experiencing difficulty in achieving
compliance with maintenance and/or wastewater discharge limitations.
C. Sizing Requirements. Sizing methods described herein are intended
as guidance in determining grease interceptor sizes that will afford
the Authority's sewer system a minimum degree of protection against
grease and other obstructing materials. In approving a customer's
plumbing or grease interceptor design, the Authority does not accept
liability for the failure of a system to adequately treat wastewater
to achieve effluent quality requirements specified under this Part.
It is the responsibility of the generator to insure the appropriate
level of treatment necessary for compliance with environmental and
wastewater regulations. Minimum acceptable grease interceptor sizing
shall be accomplished as follows:
(1)
Sizing according to formulas found in paragraph D below.
(2)
Under no circumstances should exterior grease interceptors less
than 750 gallons be utilized. Where sizing formulas result in determination
of a grease interceptor less than 750 gallons in capacity, this minimum
size is required.
(3)
In the circumstance of "single service kitchens" with no food
preparation (heat/serve only), and which use only paper service items,
a minimum 50 gallon per minute (gpm) flow rated, or 100 pound grease
retention, mechanical grease interceptors may be used. In these instances,
the grease interceptor is to be installed in an area separate from
the food handling area, and the grease interceptor must be readily
accessible for cleaning and maintenance.
D. Grease Interceptor Sizing Formulas. It is the responsibility of the
generator to ensure that his wastewater discharge is in compliance
with the Authority's discharge limitations. For the purpose of plan
review, a general assessment of grease interceptor design and size
will be performed using the following formulas, which are recommended
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for grease interceptor
sizing:
Method 1: EPA Grease Interceptor Sizing Formula. Taken from Chapter
8 of EPA's October 1980 design manual, On-site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems. Document number EPA 625/1-80-012.
Method 7: As provided in the then-current provisions of the
Pennsylvania UCC Plumbing Code. [Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
Method 3: Alternate Sizing Formulas/Proposals. Facilities that
propose the use of alternate sizing techniques and/or procedures that
result in specifications that differ from calculated requirements
must submit formulas and other bases to support proposed grease interceptor
size/installation. Submission should also provide documentation of
the ability to meet effluent quality requirements. This proposal must
be signed by a licensed plumbing contractor or engineer licensed in
the State of Pennsylvania.
E. Installation. All licensing, construction, and inspection activities
must be completed in accordance with the current applicable plumbing
codes. Additionally, the following specifications must be incorporated
into grease interceptor design:
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
(1)
The grease interceptor shall be constructed with a minimum of
two chambers or shall have a minimum of two tanks in series. If two
chambered, the dividing wall must extend to within one foot of the
bottom of the tank and within two inches of the top and be securely
fastened to both sides.
(2)
There must be inlet and outlet tees installed; made of schedule
cast iron. The inlet tee should extend down approximately one-third
the depth of the grease interceptor from the top and the outlet tee
should be located 12 to 18 inches off of the bottom of the grease
interceptor. Inability to visually inspect tees during cleanout of
the interceptor will require entry into the interceptor at least once
every five years.
(3)
Piping inside of the grease interceptor must be ductile iron
with stainless steel straps/supports if needed.
(4)
Grease interceptors are to be installed at a minimum distance
of 10 feet from sinks and dishwashers to allow for adequate cooling
of wastewater. Water temperatures must be less than 140° F. prior
to entering the grease interceptor.
(5)
All grease bearing waste streams should be routed through an
appropriate grease interceptor, including: three compartment sinks,
pot/pan sinks, soup kettles, hand-washing sinks, dishwashers, mop
sinks and floor drains.
Notable Exceptions. Drains that receive "clear water" only,
such as from ice machines, condensate from coils and drink stations,
may be plumbed to the sewer system without passing through the grease
interceptor with the condition that the receiving drain is a "hub"
type that is a minimum of two inches above the finished floor.
(6)
All exterior or recessed grease interceptors are to be installed
with an effluent sampling chamber.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. Any person responsible for discharges requiring a grease interceptor
shall, at his own expense and as required by the Authority, provide
plans and specifications for equipment and facilities of a design
type and design capacity as described in § 505.2 approved
by the Authority. The grease interceptor must be in compliance with
the current applicable plumbing codes. The person shall locate the
grease interceptor in a manner that provides easy accessibility for
cleaning and inspection and maintain the grease interceptor in effective
operating condition. The Authority shall inspect the grease interceptor
during construction and upon completion. All interested parties shall
make a final inspection before any service connections are made.
2. Construction of items listed herein in accordance herewith or in
accordance to the Authority's specifications shall not constitute
a defense to unlawful discharge and shall not limit the generator's
liability for any surcharge stated in this division.
3. An inspection port shall be provided for the flow control device
regulating flow into the grease interceptor.
4. Except for under the sink grease traps, each grease interceptor shall
be located outside of a building or structure in an area accessible
for service, and so installed and connected that it shall be at all
times easily accessible for inspection, and for cleaning and removal
of the intercepted waste. Inspection ports and monitoring ports shall
be in areas where vehicles may not temporarily block access to inspection.
The use of ladders or the removal of bulky equipment or stored materials
in order to access inspection or monitoring ports shall constitute
a violation of accessibility. A grease interceptor shall not be installed
in any part of a building where food is handled. The location of all
grease interceptors, inspection ports, and monitoring ports shall
meet the approval of the Authority and shall be shown on the approved
building plans.
5. A one piece removable metal plate covering the entire grease interceptor
shall be preferred as an inspection port, though at the discretion
of the Authority, standard manhole ports may be installed over each
divider in the grease interceptor. In either case, all parts of the
grease interceptor shall be easily accessible for cleaning and visual
inspection.
6. A monitoring port, where required by the Authority, shall be provided
for ease in sampling the treated effluent from the grease interceptor
and shall be as close as possible to the connection with the sewer
system within the bounds of the existing facility's property. The
monitoring port shall be installed according to the specifications
of the Authority. The monitoring port shall be installed and maintained
at the generator's expense. A generator shall properly place, monitor,
and maintain the monitoring port so that wastewater samples taken
from the monitoring port are representative of wastewater leaving
the grease interceptor. It shall be unlawful for a generator to divert
wastewater around a monitoring port into the sewer system.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. In the event that an outside grease interceptor is not practicable,
an under the sink grease trap or interior active interceptor may be
installed subject to the approval of the Authority. Under the sink
grease traps/interior active interceptors are subject to the following
additional requirements:
A. General Requirements.
(1)
The location of such grease traps/interior active interceptors
shall be in as close proximity to the source of wastewater as physically
possible.
(2)
The lid shall be secured to the body with a single bolt. No
wing nuts or screws shall be permitted.
(3)
The lid shall cover the deep seal grease trap/interior active
interceptor. The deep seal grease trap/interior active interceptor
shall be constructed so as to eliminate the possibility of sewer gas
entering the kitchen area.
(4)
Baffle systems and all other internal pieces shall be removal
to facilitate cleaning and replacement, but must be in place at all
other times.
(5)
The grease trap/interior active interceptor shall be coated
with a powder coated electrostatically applied cathodic epoxy coating
so as to be resistant to corrosion.
(6)
The grease trap/interior active interceptor shall be equipped
with a flow control fitting.
B. Installation Requirements.
(1)
The grease trap/interior active interceptor may be set on the
floor, partially recessed in the floor with the top flush with the
floor, or fully recessed below the floor to suit piping and structural
conditions, as acceptable to the Authority.
(2)
There shall be sufficient clearance for the removal of the cover
for cleaning.
(3)
Unless specifically approved by the Authority, runs of pipe
exceeding 25 feet between the fixture and grease trap/interior active
interceptor shall not be permitted.
(4)
The grease trap/interior active interceptor shall not be installed
in a waste line from a garbage grinder.
(5)
A suitable flow control fitting shall be installed ahead of
the grease trap/interior active interceptor in the waste line beyond
the fixture and as close as possible to the underside of the lowest
fixture. When wastes of two or more sinks or fixtures are combined
to be used by one grease trap/interior active interceptor, a single
flow control fitting shall be used.
(6)
Air intake for flow control either shall terminate under the
sink drain board as high as possible to prevent overflow, or shall
terminate in a return bend at the same height and on the outside of
the building.
(7)
To retain water and prevent siphoning, all grease traps/interior
active interceptors shall have a vented waste line, sized in accordance
with the current applicable plumbing codes.
(8)
With the approval of the Authority, one grease trap/interior
active interceptor may be used to serve multiple fixtures if the fixtures
are located close together and the grease trap/interior active interceptor
is sized to meet the combined flow of all the fixtures.
(9)
Under the sink grease traps/interior active interceptors shall
be cleaned at a minimum of every three days. A cleaning log shall
be maintained.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1; as amended by Ord.
2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
1. It is unlawful for any existing facility or new facility to discharge
wastewater from a grease interceptor without authorization in the
form of a FOG license. Application for a FOG license shall be made
to the Authority. If, after examining the information contained in
the FOG license application, it is determined by the Authority that
the proposed discharge does not conflict with the provisions of this
Part, or any other Federal, State, or local requirement or regulation,
a FOG license shall be issued, at the same time the food establishment
license is paid and issued, allowing the existing facility or new
facility to discharge into the sewer system. A FOG license shall be
issued for a set time and under such terms as may be set from time
to time by the Authority. The terms and conditions of the FOG license
may be subject to modification by the Authority at any time during
the term of the FOG license as limitations or requirements as identified
in this section are modified or other just causes exist. The generator
shall be informed of any proposed change(s) in writing by the Authority.
Any changes or new conditions in the FOG license shall include a reasonable
time schedule for compliance.
A. As a condition precedent to the granting of a FOG license, the licensee
agrees to hold harmless the Authority from any liabilities arising
from the licensee's operations under the FOG license.
B. The generator shall apply to become licensed by fully completing
and signing the Authority's FOG license application and paying the
a fee in an amount as established from time to time by resolution
of the Board of Supervisors, which may be amended by only the Board
of Supervisors from time to time. Such fee shall be payable to the
Authority and until all applicable fees, charges and expenses have
been paid in full, the application shall be considered incomplete
and no action shall be taken on any applications or appeal.
C. The FOG license application shall include the following:
(1)
The generator's name, address and telephone number, and the
name, address, and telephone number of the existing facility to be
serviced, if different.
(2)
The name, title, address and phone number of each of the authorized
signatory representatives.
(3)
The name of the contact person for the existing facility.
(4)
Name(s) on the water supply account(s), the water service account
number(s), and a copy of the last water bill.
(5)
A description of any anticipated changes or expansions to the
existing facility during the next three years that could alter wastewater
volumes or characteristics.
(6)
The size of each existing grease interceptor, how often they
are currently served and if any additives are used.
(7)
The current shift information.
(8)
A list of all major equipment used for food preparation.
(9)
The precise and unambiguous location of the grease interceptor(s)
on the property, including a diagram if necessary.
(10)
A signature and date by an authorized signatory representative.
2. A copy of the FOG license application can be obtained on the Authority's
website located at http://www.nbcjma.org or by contacting the Newtown,
Bucks County, Joint Municipal Authority's office at (215) 968-4109,
Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. The fats, oils and grease hauled waste manifest shall be kept on
site and shall contain the following information:
A. Part I, Waste Hauler Information.
(5)
Bucks County license number.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
B. Part II, Waste Generator Information.
(2)
License number.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
(6)
Size of grease interceptor.
C. Part III, Waste Disposal Site Information.
(1)
Name of licensed disposal site.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
(2)
PA DEP license number.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
(6)
Signature of disposal facility operator.
D. The printed name, signature of the transporter, date and time of
pumping are also required at the bottom of the form.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. Required Pumping Frequency.
A. Unless otherwise specified by the Authority, each grease interceptor
in active use should be cleaned at least once every 90 days or more
frequently as needed to prevent carry-over of grease into the sewer
system, unless it can be demonstrated to the Authority that the pumping
frequency can be performed at greater intervals with best management
practices. The Authority may specify cleaning more frequently when
quarterly pumping is shown to be inadequate. Additional pumping may
be required during time periods where increased loading is anticipated.
Any generator desiring a schedule less frequent than 90 days shall
submit a request to the Authority along with testing (as required
by the Authority) and copies of the cleaning records for the last
four cleanings, including measurements of the thickness of the surface
scum/grease layer and solids.
B. At any time if the Authority finds the grease interceptor to be full,
immediate steps shall be taken by the generator to pump out and clean
the grease interceptor as soon as is practicable. The Authority shall
make an evaluation of the advisability of allowing discharge to continue,
and may at his or her discretion order an immediate cessation of all
discharge from the existing facility. In any case, the FOG license
of the existing facility may be amended so as to compel more frequent
pumping and cleaning of the grease interceptor.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
2. Requirement for Increased Pumpage or Servicing.
A. If the authorized agent finds that a change in pumpage or servicing
of a grease interceptor is necessary for an establishment to meet
the discharge limits stated in this Part, the Authority may order
a change in pumpage or servicing. If the Authority orders a change
in the pumpage or servicing, then the Authority shall serve notice
of such order upon the generator. The owner may request and shall
be granted a hearing before the Authority. Such hearing shall be requested
by filing a petition, in writing, stating the grounds of the petition
within five days after notice of the authorized agent's decision and
paying an administration fee in an amount as established from time
to time by resolution of the Authority. The hearing shall commence
within 30 days of filing of the petition unless postponed for good
cause. At the hearing to review the order, the generator may present
evidence, and the Authority may make new findings and issue new orders
to change the frequency and/or methods of pumpage or servicing, it
shall be unlawful for a generator to allow or cause any discharge
into the sewer system not in compliance with such order.
3. A generator shall cause the liquid waste hauler, transporter, or
any other person cleaning or servicing a grease interceptor to completely
evacuate all contents, including floating materials, wastewater, and
bottom sludges and solids, of all grease interceptors during servicing.
Skimming the surface layer of waste material, partial cleaning of
the grease interceptor or use of any method that does not remove the
entire contents of the collection device is prohibited. The suction
of the floating materials shall be done prior to removal of other
contents. After complete evacuation, the walls, top, and bottom of
the grease interceptor shall then be thoroughly scraped and the residue
removed. Upon completion of the servicing, the Manager of the existing
facility shall make an inspection of the interior of the grease interceptor
and then personally sign the manifest. The Manager shall make an appropriate
entry in the maintenance log, and post the generator section of the
manifest in a conspicuous place with the log on the premises. Said
manifests and maintenance logs shall be made immediately available
to any authorized agent.
4. Each grease interceptor pumped shall be fully evacuated unless the
grease interceptor volume is greater than the tank capacity on the
vacuum truck in which case the transporter shall arrange for additional
transportation capacity so that the grease interceptor is full evacuated
within a twenty-four-hour period following the transporter's inability
to fully evacuate the grease interceptor.
5. It shall be unlawful for a generator to allow the discharge of liquid,
semi-solids, or solids back into a grease interceptor during and/or
after servicing. Decanting or discharging of removed wastewater back
into the grease interceptor from which the wastewater was removed
or any other grease interceptor, for the purpose of reducing the volume
to be disposed, is prohibited.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. All grease interceptor waste originating within the Township shall
be disposed of at approved disposal sites.
2. No person or organization shall provide grease interceptor hauling,
pumping, cleaning or inspection services in the Township unless licensed
by PA DEP and by Bucks County.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
3. All wastewater removed from each grease interceptor shall be disposed
of at a licensed disposal site. In no way shall the pumped material
be returned to any private or public portion of the sewer system,
without prior written approval from the Authority. Additionally, grease
removed from a grease interceptor shall not be recycled so as to become
a food product for animal or human consumption.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
4. All grease haulers must be able to provide evidence of adequate insurance,
in the form of current insurance certificates, for his firm or his
subcontractors.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. When an existing facility with a grease interceptor closes for business,
and is subsequently:
A. Razed or demolished, then any grease interceptor(s) shall be physically
removed.
B. Remodeled or replaced with a type of business that will not utilize
the grease interceptor, then the grease interceptor(s) shall be either
physically removed or left in place. If left in place the grease interceptor(s)
shall have all wastewater pumped out, be cleaned thoroughly, left
dry and empty.
(1)
Be re-plumbed as to bypass the existing grease interceptor(s),
either by straight through or bypassing methods, while leaving the
empty grease interceptor(s) in place for possible future utilization
by another business.
(2)
Re-plumbed with a straight line plumbed from the inlet to the
outlet, and the remainder of the grease interceptor(s) filled with
soil or sand.
C. In all instances, the owner of the premises shall appropriately inform
the Authority and perform the closure at such a time so as to permit
an authorized agent to be physically present during the removal or
filling of the grease interceptor(s).
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. It shall be unlawful for a generator, whether or not the generator
possesses a FOG license, to refuse to allow authorized agents to enter
their premises during reasonable hours to determine whether the generator
is complying with all of the requirements of this Part and the FOG
license or order issued hereunder. A generator shall allow the authorized
agent access to all parts of the premises for purposes of inspection,
sampling, records examination and copying, and the performance of
additional duties. Arrangements for the immediate access of the Authority
or their designated representative shall have been made ahead of time;
however, such failure to make adequate arrangements shall not be considered
a legitimate reason to refuse admittance of an authorized agent.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
2. In cases where an existing facility includes private living quarters,
the right of access shall extend to all common areas, and any other
area or areas an employee, including the Manager and/or owner, may
enter without expressed permission of the residents.
3. If the authorized agent has been refused access to a building, structure,
or property, or any part thereof, and is able to demonstrate probable
cause to believe that there may be a violation of this Part, or that
there is a need to inspect and/or sample as part of a routine inspection
and sampling program of the Authority designed to verify compliance
with this Part or any license or permit or order issued hereunder,
or to protect the overall public health, safety and welfare of the
community, then the authorized agent may seek issuance of a search
warrant from any court of competent jurisdiction.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. The Authority shall fully utilize those powers it possesses through
enabling statutes and ordinances to effect the purposes of this Part.
2. The Authority may establish all administrative procedures necessary
to properly carry out the provisions of this Part.
3. The Authority shall employ authorized agents to carry out the provisions
of this Part.
4. All licenses, permits, records, reports, files and other written
material relating to the installation, operation, maintenance, and
malfunction of grease interceptors in the Township shall become the
property of the Authority. Existing and future records shall be available
for public inspection during normal business hours at the official
Authority office. All records pertaining to FOG licenses, building
permits, occupancy licenses, and all other aspects of this Part shall
be made available, upon request. The Authority may charge a fee for
copying.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1; as amended by Ord.
2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
Fees for application, operation, enforcement, administration,
reimbursement of costs, or any other matter pursuant to this Part
shall be as set from time to time by the Authority. Any fee schedule
approved by the Authority under this Part shall be provided to the
Township and made available to the public.
[Ord. 2012-O-5, 8/22/2012, § 1]
1. It is unlawful for any generator to discharge into the sewer system
in any manner that is in violation of this Part, or of any condition
set forth in this Part. Additionally, a person commits an offense
if the person causes or permits the plugging or blocking of or otherwise
interferes with or permits the interference of a grease interceptor
or the sewer system, including alteration or removal of any flow constricting
devices so as to cause flow to rise above the design capacity of the
grease interceptor.
2. No person and/or existing facility shall discharge grease in excess
of 100 mg/l to the sewer system unless the generator is performing
best management practices. If such discharge occurs, the person or
existing facility shall be considered in violation of this Part and
subject to the remedies described herein. This includes non-licensed
existing facilities.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
3. The authorized agent is hereby empowered to enter and inspect any
premises upon which he/she has reasonable grounds to believe a violation
exists. If violation of any of the provisions of this Part exists,
the authorized agent shall issue written notice to be served by registered
or certified mail upon the owner of such premises or, if the owners
whereabouts or identity be unknown, by posting the notice conspicuously
upon the offending premises. Such notice shall specify the condition
of the violation and shall require the owner to commence to remove
or otherwise rectify the offending condition within five days of notification
and thereafter to fully comply with the requirements of the notice
within 20 days.
4. Any persons aggrieved by a decision of an authorized agent in regard
to any alleged violation may request and shall be granted a hearing
before the Authority. Such hearing shall be requested by filling a
petition, in writing, stating the grounds therefore within five days
after notice of the authorized agent's decision. Any persons aggrieved
by a decision of an authorized agent in regard to any alleged violation
may request and shall be granted a hearing before the Authority. Such
hearing shall be requested by filing a petition, in writing, stating
the grounds of the petition within five days after notice of the authorized
agent's decision and paying an administration fee in an amount as
established from time to time by resolution of Township. The hearing
shall commence within 30 days of filing of the petition unless postponed
for good cause. After such hearing the Authority shall sustain, modify
or overrule the action of the authorized agent.
5. The Authority may immediately request the water company to suspend
water service when such suspension is necessary, in the opinion of
the Authority, in order to stop an actual or threatened discharge
which:
A. Presents or may present an imminent or substantial endangerment to
the health or welfare of persons or the environment.
B. Causes stoppages or excessive maintenance to be performed to prevent
stoppages in the sewer system.
C. Causes interference to the sewer system.
D. Causes the Authority to violate any condition of its license.
[Amended by Ord. 2016-O-6, 11/9/2016]
6. Any person notified of a suspension of the water service shall immediately
stop or eliminate the discharge. In the event of a failure of the
person to comply voluntarily with the suspension order, the Authority
shall take such steps as deemed necessary, including requesting immediate
termination of water service, to prevent or minimize damage to the
sewer system or sewer connection or endangerment to any individuals.
The Authority shall request reinstate the water service when such
conditions causing the suspension have passed or been eliminated.
Any costs associated with the termination and reinstatement of water
service by the Water Company shall be paid by the person notified
of the suspension. A detailed written statement submitted by the generator
describing the cause(s) of the harmful discharge and the measure(s)
taken to prevent any future occurrence shall be submitted to the Authority
within 15 days of the date of occurrence.
7. In addition to prohibiting certain conduct by persons, it is the
intent of this Part to hold a corporation, association, LLC, LLP or
PS legally responsible for prohibited conduct performed by an agent
acting in behalf of a corporation or association and within the scope
of his office or employment.
8. Any person who violates or fails to comply with any provision of
this Part, or within five days of the denial of any appeal to the
Authority, upon conviction thereof, shall be sentenced to pay a fine
of not more than $1,000 plus costs and, in default of payment of said
fine and costs, to a term of imprisonment not to exceed 30 days. Each
day that a violation of this Part continues shall constitute a separate
offense.
9. A generator is liable to the Authority for any expense, loss, or
damage occasioned by the Authority for reason of appropriate clean-up
and proper disposal of said wastewater materials. Additionally, an
administrative fee equal to 1/2 of assessed clean-up costs shall be
levied by the Authority against the guilty party.
10. The performance by the Authority of its obligations as set forth
in this Part shall create no liability upon the Authority, its officials,
employees or authorized agents.
11. All reports, inspections, appraisals, certification or records required
or produced by the Authority, or its authorized agents, as required
by this Part, shall be for the use and benefit of the Authority only
and shall not be accepted, utilized or relied upon by any other person
or party by way of certification or otherwise.