Environmental Resources Management

Grease Discharge Operating Permit

• Why is the Grease Discharge Operating (GDO) Permit necessary?
• Who needs a GDO Operating Permit?
• Why is the GDO Operating Permit required?
• When is a new GDO Operating Permit required?
• Is an existing GDO Operating Permit transferable?
• How do I apply for a GDO Operating Permit?
• What other documents are needed to apply for the GDO Operating Permit prior to commencing operations at my facility?
• How long does it take to process the GDO Permit Application?
• How much are the GDO Operating Permit fees?
• How long is the GDO Operating Permit valid?

Why is the Grease Discharge Operating (GDO) Permit necessary?

Prior to 1994, Miami-Dade County experienced a number of grease related overflow problems that needed to be resolved. The solution began with the creation of the grease discharge program. Since the program began, the number of grease-related problems have decreased and the number of grease interceptors in the county has increased. Preventing sewage overflows is a key necessity for the well-being, health and safety of our community, as well as for the preservation of our environment.

Who needs a GDO Operating Permit?

Any non-residential facilities that prepare or process food, discharge or have the potential to discharge oil and grease to the public sanitary sewer system, require a GDO Operating Permit. Typical examples of permitted facilities include restaurants, cafeterias, supermarkets, schools, banquet halls and trash pads at malls or shopping centers.

Why is the GDO Operating Permit required?

This permit is needed to monitor the discharge of fats, oils and grease into the public sanitary sewer system via an inspection program, and to minimizes the occurrence of sewage overflows caused by grease blockages in the public sanitary sewer lines, with the cooperation of the business operator and the public utilities.

When is a new GDO Operating Permit required?

A new permit is required when a new business opens or when there is a change of ownership, business name change (fictitious or corporation), an expansion or contraction of the business address, a change of the grease pretreatment device to an existing business, or a change in business location. The annual operating permit is non-transferable and new business owners are required to secure a new permit. Copies of zoning permits (certificate of use or municipal occupational license) showing the new business name and/or new owner's name, along with the GDO application, are accepted for the application process.

Is an existing GDO Operating Permit transferable?

No. GDO Operating Permits are not transferable. The new owner of the business is required to apply for a permit under their business name.

How do I apply for a GDO Operating Permit?

Customers can apply for new permits in person at Environmental Resources Management offices downtown, in West Dade and Hialeah. Please bring a complete and notarized GDO permit application .

• See office locations, hours and contact information

Facilities within municipalities can apply at all three locations, and must bring a copy of their Municipal Occupational License or applicable local business tax receipt. If a copy of the license is not yet available, then the application used to obtain the license may be accepted.

Facilities within unincorporated Miami-Dade County can apply only at the West Dade Office, and must bring their Miami-Dade Planning and Zoning Certificate of Use (Zoning) process number.

Cash, checks, money orders and credit cards (Visa & Mastercard only) are accepted for payment of application and processing fees.

What other documents are needed to apply for the GDO Operating Permit prior to commencing operations at my facility?

If the facility is located within any city or municipality, you must first apply for the Municipal Occupational License and/or a Certificate of Use (CU) from the city prior to accepting an application for a GDO Operating Permit. It is not necessary for the municipal occupational license to be finalized by the corresponding municipality when using it to apply for the GDO permit.

Note: All municipalities require an Environmental Resources Management Plan Review "stamp" prior to finalization of their occupational license.

In unincorporated areas of Miami-Dade County, a valid Certificate of Use or approved CU application must be submitted. You can apply for a Certificate of Use and Occupancy with Miami-Dade County's Building Department located at 11805 SW 26 Street.

It is suggested that other Municipal, County, State and Federal Agencies be consulted to determine which additional permits, if any, must be obtained from those agencies.

How long does it take to process the GDO Permit Application?

A completed application that is submitted in person is generally reviewed and an answer provided in a matter of minutes. The actual operating permit document that must be posted at the facility is usually mailed within 30 days of processing and approval of the complete application.

How much are the GDO Operating Permit fees?

GDO operating permit fees cost $150, $300 or $750, depending on the size (area in square feet) of the facility, its use and the potential to generate and discharge fat, oil or grease to the Public Sanitary Sewer System.

How long is the GDO Operating Permit valid?

The GDO permit is valid from January 1st through December 31st of the same year. Permit renewal forms are sent to the facility operators a minimum of 45 days prior to the expiration of the permit.

For more information, call the Environmental Resources Management Permitting Section at 305-372-6600.

• View the Grease Discharge Operating (GDO) Permit

Back to Top Page Last Edited: Thu Oct 13, 2011 11:49:42 AM