Seasonal weight restrictions on Spokane County roads in effect

Spokane County’s Engineering and Roads Department announced Feb. 13 that seasonal weight restrictions would be implemented on county roads – effective immediately. Roadway surfaces and the structures beneath the surface have become weakened during this winter’s cycle of freezing temperatures, followed by warmer temperatures and precipitation. As a result, roads are vulnerable to severe damage and the implementation of weight restrictions reduces the need for increased road maintenance and auto repairs later this year.

Roads posted in Spokane County can either be a seasonal restriction or an emergency restriction. The vehicle speed is always reduced on emergency restricted roads and vehicle speed 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 six weeks. However, seasonal weather conditions vary from year-to-year and dictate the extent of the restrictions and when they begin. 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.

For more information on road weight limits and restrictions, contact the Spokane County Engineering and Roads Department at (509) 477-3600, or go to the county website at http://www.spokanecounty.org/engineer.