TAS · TasWater
Grease trap compliance in Tasmania
TasWater issues trade waste permits and inspects food businesses across the state. Missed pump-outs or non-compliant discharge can attract fines up to $6,500 plus restoration costs.
Regulator
TasWater
Maximum fine
$6,500
Governing act
Water and Sewerage Industry Act 2008 (Tas)
Who needs a trade waste consent?
Every commercial food premises in Tasmania 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 TasWater 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 $6,500, 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: TasWater trade waste
Get 3 quotes — Tasmania
Free for venues. Three Wastesafe contractors quote your job, typically same business day.