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Cease the Grease

FOG (Fats, Oils & Grease) are a natural consequence of cooking and also occur naturally in many foods. FOG can be found in cooking oil and shortening, meat fats and juices, dairy products, just to name a few. FOG clogs occur when grease is washed into the plumbing system, usually through the kitchen sink, and gets stuck inside pipes once it cools and solidifies.

Even small amounts of FOG stick to sewer pipes and accumulate over time, restricting or blocking the flow of sewage. A sewer backup can overflow into streets and into homes, creating public health hazards and potentially damaging properties, the environment and local waterways.

FOG shouldn’t be thrown directly into the trash. Because Placer County uses the One Big Bin approach to trash and recycling, all waste—including recyclable materials—goes into a single bin. Adding FOG could contaminate recyclables. Save your pipes by properly disposing of FOG and using a sink strainer to catch food items.

Preparing for Your FOG Pickup

Step 1: All cooking fats, oils or grease should be allowed to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Place cooled fats, oils or grease in a clear plastic container with a screw on lid.

Step 3: All containers should be clearly marked “food grease” on the outside of the container.

Step 4: Containers should only contain cooking related fats, oils and grease and no other material such as food scraps, water and garbage.

FOG Disposal Options

Free pick-up service for FOG is available from the cities of Lincoln and Roseville, SPMUD, and from Recology Auburn Placer for their customers in the Cities of Colfax and Auburn, and for some areas of unincorporated Placer County. Residents simply call to schedule a pick-up time at their home.

  • Roseville: (916) 774-5780
  • Auburn: (530) 885-3735 (Recology Auburn Placer)
  • Colfax: (530) 885-3735 (Recology Auburn Placer)
  • SPMUD: (916) 786-8212 (Rocklin, Loomis, Penryn and Newcastle)
  • Lincoln: (916) 434-2450

Free drop-off locations for FOG are available to those who don’t live in an area where pick-up service is available.