Grease Theft: Why It’s a Growing Problem and How Your Restaurant Can Prevent It

Why Grease Theft Is a Growing Problem

With the demand for biodiesel and industrial oil on the rise, used cooking oil has become a lucrative black-market commodity. Here’s why theft is escalating:

1. Rising Market Prices – The price of used oil has nearly tripled in recent years, making it an attractive target for illegal collectors.
2. Minimal Risk for Thieves – Unlike stealing physical goods, grease theft leaves little trace, making it difficult to catch criminals.
3. Weak Security Measures – Many restaurants store oil in unsecured bins, making it easy for thieves to siphon and resell.
4. Lack of Awareness – Many owners don’t realize their oil has value, leaving it vulnerable to theft.

Without proper security, your used cooking oil could be stolen and resold on the black market—costing you thousands in lost revenue.

The Hidden Costs of Grease Theft

Grease theft isn’t just about losing oil—it creates multiple financial and operational headaches for restaurant owners. Here’s what’s at stake:

• Direct Loss of Revenue – If a licensed collector pays you for used oil, theft means you’re losing direct income.
• Increased Liability & Compliance Risks – If stolen grease is improperly disposed of, your restaurant could be held responsible for environmental violations.
• Equipment Damage – Many thieves force open or destroy grease containers, leading to repair and replacement costs.
• Business Disruptions – When thieves steal grease, scheduled collections get disrupted, potentially causing overflow and plumbing issues.

Protecting your grease isn’t just about stopping crime—it’s about safeguarding your business from financial loss and regulatory headaches.

How to Secure Your Used Cooking Oil from Theft

Preventing grease theft requires a proactive security strategy. Here’s what restaurant owners should do:

1. Use Lockable Grease Bins – Secure storage prevents unauthorized access and deters thieves.
2. Partner with a Licensed Grease Collector – Reputable collection services like Longview Environmental provide secured, scheduled pickups.
3. Install Surveillance Cameras – Position cameras near grease bins to monitor suspicious activity and deter theft.
4. Restrict Access to Oil Storage Areas – Keep grease bins in locked enclosures and limit access to trusted staff members.
5. Schedule Frequent Pickups – The longer oil sits, the more opportunities thieves have to steal it. Regular pickups minimize exposure.
6. Report Suspicious Activity – If you notice missing oil or see unauthorized trucks, report it to law enforcement and your grease collection provider.

These preventive measures not only deter theft but also ensure smooth operations and consistent revenue from your used cooking oil.

The Role of a Trusted Grease Collection Partner in Theft Prevention

A reliable, licensed grease collection company doesn’t just pick up used oil—it helps you secure it. The best providers offer:

• Tamper-Proof Containers – Specialized bins prevent unauthorized access.
• Real-Time Collection Tracking – Some companies provide digital logs of pickups, so you always know when oil is collected.
• Secure, On-Schedule Pickups – Frequent, scheduled pickups reduce the risk of theft by minimizing stored oil.
• Legal Compliance Support – A professional collector ensures proper documentation, so stolen oil doesn’t cause compliance issues for your business.

Longview Environmental provides secure grease storage, scheduled collections, and theft-prevention solutions to protect your restaurant’s assets.

What to Do If Your Used Cooking Oil Is Stolen

If you suspect grease theft, take immediate action:

1. Check Surveillance Footage – If you have cameras near your grease bin, review recordings for evidence.
2. Contact Your Grease Collector – Verify if a scheduled pickup occurred or if the oil was stolen.
3. Report the Theft to Authorities – Many cities have laws against illegal grease collection, and law enforcement can help track down black-market operators.
4. Upgrade Your Security Measures – If theft has occurred, implement stronger locks, better surveillance, and stricter access controls.
5. Work with a Licensed Provider for Ongoing Protection – Secure grease collection isn’t just about pickup—it’s about long-term theft prevention.

Restaurants that ignore grease theft lose money, risk compliance violations, and face potential liability issues. Acting quickly helps minimize damage and prevent future thefts.

Turning Grease Security into a Competitive Advantage

Beyond protecting profits, restaurants that take grease security seriously benefit in multiple ways:

• Guaranteed Revenue – When your oil is protected, you receive full compensation from collection services.
• Stronger Environmental Compliance – Secure disposal ensures your restaurant remains compliant with waste regulations.
• Improved Restaurant Reputation – Customers appreciate businesses that prioritize sustainability and responsible waste management.
• Peace of Mind – Knowing your grease is secure lets you focus on growing your business instead of worrying about theft.

Longview Environmental helps restaurants protect, track, and monetize their used cooking oil—ensuring maximum security and profitability.

Stop Grease Theft Before It Costs You Thousands

Grease theft is a growing but preventable problem. Without proper security, restaurants risk lost revenue, damaged equipment, compliance violations, and business disruptions. However, with secure storage, surveillance, scheduled pickups, and a licensed grease collection partner, restaurants can protect their used cooking oil and maximize profits.

Don’t let thieves drain your bottom line. Partner with Longview Environmental today for secure, theft-proof grease collection services.