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.