Waiting for permits

We heard back from the DEQ on Friday. What I didn't realize is that they don't just decide on the permit themselves, they seek public input and comment from other branches of government. Which takes time. Neighbours and others have 20 days to comment, and the county and township have 45 days, from Feb. 10. If perhaps the county and township take less than that time, we might hear back sooner.

Meanwhile, spring often brings weight restrictions for vehicles on lesser roads in Michigan. Other states allow only lesser weights during the whole year, and this brings Michigan more into line during the spring thaw period, when road beds are most susceptible to damage.

" Except as provided in this subsection and subsection (8), during the months of March, April, and May in each year, the maximum axle load allowable on concrete pavements or pavements with a concrete base shall be reduced by 25% from the maximum axle load as specified in this chapter, and the maximum axle loads allowable on all other types of roads during these months shall be reduced by 35% from the maximum axle loads as specified. " There are exemptions for utilities and agricultural haulers. It's enforced with portable scales.

For Michigan, there is a website, micountyroads, that tells you which counties have weight restrictions in place. So often there is a hold-up in construction if heavy equipment is needed on the lesser roads.