Best Used Cooking Oil Collection in Arkansas Ranked

For Arkansas restaurants, managing used cooking oil (UCO) is a critical operational task that intersects with environmental compliance, cost management, and sustainability. Proper collection and recycling of this waste stream are governed by a combination of federal and specific Arkansas state regulations, designed to prevent environmental harm and promote beneficial reuse. By partnering with a licensed collection service, food service establishments can transform a waste product into a resource, potentially generating revenue, avoiding costly plumbing issues, and contributing to the state's green energy initiatives. This guide outlines the key regulations, processes, and benefits of establishing a compliant and efficient used oil management program.

Ace Grease Service

Transfer Station, 232 Glenview Ln Little Rock, 232 Glenview Ln, North Little Rock, AR 72117

Ace Grease Service is a family-owned company based in Little Rock, AR, specializing in used cooking oil collection and grease trap cleaning. With over 31 years of experience, they serve restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and food manufacturing plants across nine states in the Midwest. The company collects and recycles used cooking oil into products like plastics, soaps, livestock feed, and biodiesel fuel. Ace Grease Service operates a fleet of modern trucks and equipment to provide these services efficiently.

5.0

9 Reviews

Used Oil Service Co

4387 Catherine St, Springdale, AR 72764

Used Oil Service Co is a company based in Fayetteville, AR, specializing in the collection of used cooking oil. They focus on providing reliable used cooking oil collection services to businesses in the area.

3.7

3 Reviews

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Arkansas Regulations for Used Oil Management

Arkansas adopts the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) standards for used oil but enforces several stricter state-specific requirements through the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)^{1 2}. Understanding these rules is the first step toward compliance.

Key State Oversight: The ADEQ's Hazardous Waste Division manages the used oil program. While used oil is often not classified as a hazardous waste if it is recycled, it must still be managed carefully under Arkansas Regulation No. 23^{3 4}. A critical state rule is that all transporters hauling what is classified as hazardous waste must obtain a specific state permit from ADEQ, which is more stringent than federal transporter requirements^{2 3}.

Storage and Labeling: Before pickup, restaurants must store used oil in tanks or containers that are in good condition, structurally sound, and without leaks. All containers must be clearly labeled as "Used Oil"^{1 2}. Proper storage prevents spills and avoids attracting pests.

Spill Reporting Protocol: Arkansas has specific spill reporting mandates. In the event of a used oil spill, the responsible party must immediately notify the Arkansas State Police and the ADEQ. Copies of any reports filed with the U.S. Department of Transportation or the National Response Center must also be submitted to ADEQ^{2 3}.

Disposal Prohibitions: It is illegal to dispose of used cooking oil by pouring it down drains, into storm sewers, or disposing of it as a liquid in landfills^{5 6}. The intended destination for collected UCO is recycling into approved products like biodiesel or animal feed.

How Collection Services Operate

Professional used cooking oil collection simplifies compliance for restaurant operators. The process is typically straightforward and scheduled for convenience.

Service Setup: A collection company will provide a dedicated, sealed container-often a lockable bin or tank-for the restaurant to fill with cooled UCO^{7 8}. The size of the container is usually based on the establishment's estimated monthly volume.

Scheduled Pickups: Collections are most efficient when performed on a regular schedule, such as monthly or bi-weekly^{7 9}. The service provider will dispatch a truck on the scheduled date. The driver will pump the oil from your container into the truck's storage tank for transport.

Documentation for Compliance: Reputable haulers provide crucial documentation, such as a waste manifest or service receipt, detailing the quantity of oil collected^{7 5}. This paperwork serves as your record for regulatory compliance and is essential for tracking your waste stream.

Costs and Potential Revenue

The financial model for used cooking oil collection can vary significantly based on your restaurant's volume and the service provider. Options range from free pickup to fee-based service or even a revenue stream.

Rebate Programs: For restaurants generating large volumes-often hundreds of gallons per month-collection companies may offer a rebate or payment. This payment is for the commodity value of the oil, which is refined into biodiesel. Rebate rates can fluctuate with market prices but have historically ranged from a few cents to over fifty cents per gallon^{8 10 11}.

Service Fees: Establishments with lower volumes (e.g., 10-50 gallons per month) may incur a service fee for pickup. These fees cover the cost of transportation and processing and can range from approximately $60 to $300 per month^{7 10 9}. Some providers offer free pickup if a minimum volume threshold is met.

The Value of Compliance: It's important to view any fee in the context of cost avoidance. Proper UCO collection prevents expensive plumbing blockages, sewer surcharges, and potential fines for improper disposal^{11 5}. The service provides a guaranteed, compliant outlet for a regulated waste product.

Environmental Benefits and End Uses

Recycling used cooking oil is a cornerstone of the circular economy, turning waste into valuable products and reducing environmental impact.

Primary Product: Biodiesel: The most common end use for collected UCO is conversion into biodiesel, a renewable, cleaner-burning fuel alternative to petroleum diesel^{7 10 11}. This process supports energy independence and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Other Applications: Recycled cooking oil is also processed into ingredients for animal feed, industrial lubricants, and even components for cosmetics and soaps^{7 11}. This diversification ensures the oil is fully utilized and kept out of landfills and waterways.

Community Impact: By participating in a recycling program, Arkansas restaurants directly support green industries and contribute to the state's environmental stewardship goals. Proper management protects local waterways, including the Arkansas River and its tributaries, from contamination^{5 6}.

Steps to Establish Service in Arkansas

Setting up a reliable used cooking oil collection service involves a few key actions to ensure you select a compliant and cost-effective partner.

1. Contact Licensed Providers: Seek quotes from several ADEQ-permitted used oil haulers operating in your region of Arkansas^{7 1}. Verify their state transporter permit status to ensure full compliance.
2. Evaluate Storage Needs: Discuss your average oil production with providers to determine the appropriate container size and placement location on your property. Ensure the site is accessible for trucks.
3. Establish a Pickup Schedule: Based on your container size and usage, agree on a regular pickup frequency (e.g., monthly) that prevents overfills and maintains cleanliness^{7 9}.
4. Maintain Proper Practices: Train staff to pour only cooled UCO into the designated container, avoiding contamination with water or solid food waste, which can complicate recycling.
5. Keep Accurate Records: File all service documentation, including manifests and invoices, in your records. This proves due diligence in the event of a regulatory inquiry or audit.

By following these steps, you secure a hassle-free system that manages waste responsibly, supports sustainability, and can positively impact your bottom line.

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