Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does my service business need a pretreatment device?

Grease, oil, or sand interceptors are required for laundries, restaurants, service stations, auto repair shops, carwashes and other facilities. For example, pretreatment devices are necessary for the proper handling of liquid wastes containing grease or oil in excessive amounts or any flammable wastes, sand, and other harmful ingredients. Such interceptors are not be required for private living quarters or dwelling units.

How do I know my grease, oil, or sand interceptor is adequately sized?

Specific requirements are identified on our Grease Interceptor Sizing Calculations page

Under what authority does the city of Phoenix require a wastewater discharge permit?

Chapter 28 of the city of Phoenix Code gives the Water Services Department specific authority to issue permits to control the quantity and quality of wastewater discharged to our sanitary sewer collection system. The entire Chapter 28 can be reviewed using the menu link on the PCD Overview page. The following excerpts are provided for your review.

Article:
1 Definitions Authority and General Information Sections 1-5
II Use of Public Sewers and Limitations Sections 6-19
IV Connections to Public Sewers Sections 27-28
VI Industrial User and Pretreatment Requirements Sections 44-45

Please note these excerpts are provided as a convenience for quick review and not a substitute for the actual and entire city Code.

Does my business need a permit?

See the flowchart for an overview of permitting requirements. If you have any questions please contact us.

What is the city of Phoenix permitting process?

See the Permit process flowchart for an overview of our permitting process.

How long does the permit process take, and how long are permits valid?

A business intending to start any new industrial discharge(s), or any additional industrial discharge(s) not already allowed under an existing permit, must apply for a new or amended permit at least ninety days prior to initiating such discharge(s) are issued permits. Permits are valid for up to a five-year period.

What are 'one-time' discharge permits, and how do I get one?

One-time Discharge/Manhole Entry permits may be issued for the disposal of contaminated groundwater and other one-time discharges into the city of Phoenix sanitary sewer system. Requests for one-time/manhole entry permits must be in writing and mailed to the P2/Commercial Program Supervisor two weeks prior to the anticipated discharge date(s). See the 'One-time' Discharge Permits section.

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