Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG) Program

We need your help to keep Bothell’s sewer system working its best and keep repair costs down. Fats, oils, and grease from cooking cause up to a third of all sewage overflow problems in Bothell, which could potentially result in public health issues and pollution problems.

What happens when you pour fats, oils, and grease down the drain

Fats, oils and grease are found in common food and food ingredients such as meat, fish, butter, cooking oil, mayonnaise, dairy, gravies, sauces and food scraps. If you pour them down the drain or into your garbage disposal, fats, oils and grease will build up in the pipes over time (pictured below). This could eventually cause an costly sewer backup into your home or our natural water system.



What can happen if you have a sewer backup:

  1. Sewage overflows in your home or your neighbor's home.
  2. Expensive and unpleasant cleanup that is usually the property owner's responsibility to pay for.
  3. Possible contact with disease-causing organisms.
  4. More operation and maintenance costs from the City sewer system and the regional treatment system, leading to higher sewer bills for customers.

Sewer pipe clogged with fats, oils, and grease

Clogged pipe (JPG)

Help prevent sewer backups and spills by never pouring fats, oils or grease down sink drains, toilets, or even garbage disposals. 

Use one of these options instead:

  • Sealed containers of used cooking oil are accepted for recycling at The Recology Store.
  • Scrape food scraps, fats, oils and grease into your compost bin. Use sink strainers to catch any remaining food waste while washing dishes.
  • Soak up remaining oils and grease in your pan with a paper towel before washing them.
  • You can also pour cooled fats, oils, and grease into lidded, disposable containers such as jars or cans, which can be tossed in the garbage.

By keeping fats, oils and grease out of the drain, you're helping keep sewer costs low for everyone!