Fats, Oils, and Grease Program (FOG)
This section will enable NHSA customers to complete the application for a FOG permit and will also provide further information about the FOG program.
Fats, Oils, and Grease Program (FOG)
This section will enable NHSA customers to complete the application for a FOG permit and will also provide further information about the FOG program.
Apply for a FOG Permit
Click Open Form Button to fill out and send to NHSA the application for a FOG permit. After the application has been reviewed by NHSA, FOG inspectors will schedule a site visit.
Further Information
Previous Correspondence
Further information is contained in an introduction and followup letter previously sent by NHSA to Food Service Establishments (FSEs) in Hoboken. As of July 2022, NHSA is responsible for FOG management in Hoboken, Weehawken and West New York. The program will be launched first in Hoboken and subsequently in other municipalities.
What is FOG?
“FOG” is an acronym for fats, oils, and grease that are derived from plants, animal sources, and processed foods found in most residential kitchens and commercial FSEs.
Costly and Damaging Effects of FOG
Uncontrolled FOG can do major damage to a sewer system, pump stations and treatment plants. Grease, for example, requires special attention because of its poor solubility in water and its tendency to separate from the liquid solution and coagulate in sewer mains. Large amounts of oil and grease in the wastewater decrease pipe capacity, requiring piping systems to be cleaned, and even replaced, more often than otherwise expected. Although grease in a warm liquid may not appear to be harmful, as the liquid cools, the grease or fat congeals and accumulates on the interior of the pipes, in pump station wet wells and other surfaces.
An effective FOG control program protects infrastructure, thereby preserving sewer capacity, prolonging infrastructure life, reducing overflow events, and lowering maintenance costs. The FOG program is based on the regulatory requirements of the EPA, NJDEP, and local ordinances. Food service establishments within the cities and service area are subject to the rules and procedures.
NHSA FOG Program
The provisions of the NHSA program are designed to maintain continuing compliance with all applicable Federal and State environmental laws and regulations pertaining to the sewerage system. As such, the program authorizes monitoring and enforcement activities; requires grease trap installation and maintenance; and imposes restrictions upon discharge into the sewerage system. The NHSA FOG program applies to all persons who are, by agreement or practice, utilizing the NHSA sewerage system. Although NHSA has the right under NJ state law to levy fines as soon as the program is in place, the Authority will work with FSEs over a year-long period to assist them in attaining compliance before imposing penalties.
Examples of Commercial FSEs
These are some examples of FSEs in NHSA’s service area.
Commercial kitchens
Markets
Delicatessens
Schools
Cafeterias
Convalescent homes