STURGIS, S.D. – The Meade County Commission began discussion Tuesday of a proposed ordinance that would regulate over weight and over width loads on county roads.
In its preliminary draft, the commission proposed issuing single trip permits authorizing the movement of such loads.
According to the preliminary, proposed ordinance, the commission finds it appropriate and necessary for the protection of highways within Meade County to regulate over-weight and over-dimension vehicles.
A permit could be required for any vehicle operating on a county highway exceeding 80,000 pounds gross or if a vehicle exceeds the width limitations set forth in South Dakota Codified Law.
Commissioners have proposed a $25.00 permit fee along with an additional fee of two cents for each ton or fraction of a ton that its gross weight exceeds 80,000 pounds for each mile traveled on Meade County highways.
There are exceptions to the rule in the preliminary ordinance, including those in state agencies, local subdivisions of South Dakota or of other states, and federal agencies, departments, or divisions.
Those in the agriculture industry are also exempt from the overweight fees, although commissioners propose they still obtain a permit.
As expected, commissioners heard from some concerned citizens on the proposed ordinance Tuesday. After discussion, they decided to continue discussion on the matter to their first meeting in October.