QLD · Queensland Urban Utilities
Grease trap compliance in Queensland
QUU and other QLD service providers require a Liquid Trade Waste Approval. Missing a scheduled clean or operating without an approval can attract penalties up to $13,345 under the Plumbing and Drainage Act. Pump-out frequency is decided per venue based on flow and FOG load.
Regulator
Queensland Urban Utilities
Maximum fine
$13,345
Governing act
Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018 (Qld)
Who needs a trade waste consent?
Every commercial food premises in Queensland that connects to the sewer through a grease trap — cafes, restaurants, pubs, hotels, food courts, aged care kitchens, school canteens, and any commercial kitchen producing FOG. New venues need consent before opening.
What does Queensland Urban Utilities actually require?
- A trade waste consent or agreement specific to the premises
- Pump-out at the schedule listed on that consent (usually monthly to quarterly)
- A licensed waste transporter to remove the contents
- A waste transport certificate kept on file for each clean
- Maintenance records available during audits
What happens if you miss a clean?
On-the-spot fines up to $13,345, plus potential disconnection of trade waste discharge. If your trap overflows into the council drain, expect the EHO and a costly emergency clean (often 3–4× a scheduled price).
How to stay compliant without thinking about it
Set up a recurring contract with a licensed contractor. Most contractors on our network quote a fixed per-clean price on 1, 2, 3, or 6-month cycles. They diary it, they show up, you sign the docket. That's it.
Full reference: Queensland Urban Utilities trade waste
Get 3 quotes — Queensland
Free for venues. Three Wastesafe contractors quote your job, typically same business day.