Where must a copy of the signed and certified SWPPP be retained?

A signed and certified Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must be retained on-site or made electronically accessible because this ensures immediate availability for any inspections or regulatory reviews that may occur. Keeping the SWPPP on the project site facilitates compliance with local, state, and federal regulations that require such documents to be readily available for examination by regulatory personnel or during potential audits. This accessibility is crucial, as the SWPPP details the erosion and sediment control measures in place, emphasizes best management practices, and shows the project's adherence to environmental protection standards.

Having the plan stored in other locations, like a contractor’s office or solely with the project manager, could delay access and prompt compliance issues if inspections arise. Similarly, simply submitting it to a regulatory agency does not fulfill the requirement for on-site availability and could lead to challenges in meeting legal obligations during project execution. Hence, retaining it on-site or electronically accessible aligns with best practices in environmental management and regulatory compliance.