Please review the frequently asked questions below, and call (202) 364-3144 for more information. 

What is this fee?

This fee will be applied to the water account for each Food Service Establishment (FSE) operating on the associated property that produces fats, oils, and grease.

Who is required to pay this fee?

Each food-serving establishment (FSE) operating in the District of Columbia is subject to a monthly fee. Properties that contain multiple FSEs will be charged for each operating FSE.

Active licensing information is provided by the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) and the DC Health Department.

Why are you charging this fee?

DC Water’s Compliance Program works with these establishments to help them adhere to the DC codes regulating the installation, inspection, maintenance, and documentation of grease interceptors. 

This fee will pay for DC Water’s inspection efforts, as well as DC Water’s online portal system and smartphone application for customers to document required maintenance and cleaning of grease interceptors. 

Are there exemptions to this fee?

Certain sites may qualify for exemptions from backflow prevention reporting requirements. These include:

• Sites verified as Non-Significant Grease Dischargers under DC Water’s FROG Program.
• Properties currently undergoing renovations, subject to review and approval by DC Water.

Each exemption must be verified and documented through DC Water’s established procedures.

If you think you qualify for this exemption, download, complete, and sign this questionnaire, and send an electronic copy to compliance@dcwater.com.

Are there regulations associated with these fees and the questionnaire?

Yes. Grease abatement system maintenance and DC Water's Compliance Program are subject to the authority of the Wastewater System Regulation Amendment Act of 1985, (D.C. Law 6-95, D.C. Official Code 8-105.01 et seq.) as amended and Chapter 15 “Discharges to Wastewater System” of Title 21 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations. The statute cited, together with implementing regulations, authorize DC Water to require corrective action within a specified time period and to require submission of information and records requested herein.

For more information about Fats, Rags/Wipes, Oil, and Grease (FROG), click here

For more information, contact compliance@dcwater.com or (202) 364-3144.

For information about other fees, visit dcwater.com/fees.