The Monroe County Legislature on Tuesday unanimously passed a new law that looks to secure restaurant grease traps after a toddler's tragic death in July.

"Bryce's Law" states that grease tap covers would need to be locked or bolted in and secured with a heavy cover.

It also says the Monroe County Department of Public Health will inspect grease traps annually.

Named after the 3-year-old boy who died after falling in a grease trap at the Tim Hortons on University Avenue, the law will be subject to one final public hearing before going into effect by the end of September.

Prior to the introduction of the new legislation, no clear standard existed for the ongoing inspection and enforcement of grease trap manhole covers in New York state, according to the office of Monroe County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo.

Under the new law:

  • Grease traps and/or interceptors with manhole covers shall be designed to withstand expected loads and prevent access by unauthorized individuals
  • A food service establishment shall ensure that a grease trap and/or interceptor manhole cover is secured by a bolt or locking mechanism, or shall have a cover of sufficient weight to prevent unauthorized access. Sufficient weight shall be calculated by the standard of a 59-pound cover for a 24-inch diameter opening
  • All grease traps and/or interceptors shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations

Related Stories: