One of the most important responsibilities of the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management (DWM) is protecting the environment. When fats, oils, and greases (FOG) are released into the wastewater collection system it causes blockages which sometimes result in sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). SSOs occur when raw sewage is released into the environment.

To address this environmental hazard, the DWM has developed a FOG Program. The FOG Program consists of public education and the implementation of a FOG Ordinance. Public education started in 2003 and is still continuing. Public education consists of educating our citizens on the harmful effects of releasing FOG into the wastewater collection system and providing alternative ways to dispose of FOG. On March 17, 2007, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners (BOC) adopted the FOG Ordinance. The FOG Ordinance outlines what food service establishments (FSEs) must do to comply with the requirements set forth in the FOG Ordinance.

Enclosed please find a copy of the FOG Ordinance and additional information pertaining to the responsibilities of each FSE and permitting fees. To further understand all the new responsibilities and fees, we are providing informational sessions that will be held at various locations throughout the County. These sessions will be comprised of a brief discussion of the new FOG Ordinance, permitting requirements and schedules, and will answer any questions you may have. We would like to thank you in advance for your cooperation and your patronage to DeKalb County. For more information, please visit our website at www.DeKalbWatershed.com.

Francis T. Kung’u, Ph.D., P.E.
Director, Department of Watershed Management