How long shall SSO Reports be kept on file?

SSO (Sanitary Sewer Overflow) Reports are crucial for tracking compliance with regulations, managing public health concerns, and improving sewer system operations. Keeping these reports for five years is standard practice as it aligns with regulatory and organizational recommendations. This time frame allows for historical analysis, trend identification, and sufficient documentation should any issues arise related to past overflows.

While shorter retention periods could limit the ability to review past incidents and responses, extending the duration beyond five years may not be necessary and could lead to clutter and inefficiency in record-keeping. The five-year requirement thus strikes a balance between accountability and practicality, ensuring agencies can respond appropriately to any questions or investigations regarding sewer system performance over time.