Seasonal Weight Restrictions Announced for Spokane County Roads

Spokane
County’s Engineering and Roads Department announced today they are putting seasonal weight
restrictions are in effect on county roads until further
notice.  Roadway surfaces and the structures beneath have
been weakened by the winter’s cycle of freezing temperatures, followed
by warmer temperatures and precipitation.  As a result, roads are
vulnerable to damage.

Weight restrictions now will reduce the need for road maintenance and vehicle repairs later this
year.  These conditions vary from year-to-year, which means that different
roads may, or may not, be restricted and the time frame for implementing the
restrictions.

Vehicle speed limits on seasonal restricted roads is at the discretion of
the County Engineer.  Seasonal road restrictions usually go into effect in
late February or early March and last for approximately 6 weeks.  However,
seasonal weather conditions dictate the extent of the restrictions and when
they go into effect.  No exemptions or permits are given on emergency restricted
roads.

Impacted
roads in Spokane County are posted with signs indicating maximum allowable
weights.  Typically, these restrictions do not apply to the average car or
pickup truck.  However, commercial and construction vehicles may need to
lighten their loads in order to comply with the restrictions.  Spokane
County commercial vehicle enforcement officers will be on patrol and violators
will be fined!  Fines may vary according to the nature of the
infraction.