MoDOT, Department of Agriculture Work to Waive Fee For Hay Hauling Permits

JEFFERSON CITY - Extreme weather conditions this summer have resulted in a widespread hay shortage, and the Missouri departments of Transportation and Agriculture are working to help Missouri's farmers cope with the situation.

At the agriculture department's request, MoDOT is waiving the fee for blanket permits to haul wide loads of hay. The fee will be waived through Dec. 31 on loads up to 12 feet, four inches wide that are of legal height, length and weight.

In addition to this savings of up to $50, the waiver will allow hay movements to take place over holidays and at night, a practice normally not allowed.   At night, or when visibility is less than 500 feet, drivers are required to use a reflective, oversized load sign and clearance lights instead of flags at the edges of their loads.

"This year's drought has devastated our agricultural industry, and we commend MoDOT for helping alleviate the financial struggles that our farmers and producers are facing," said Fred Ferrell, director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture.   "Waiving the hay hauling permit fees is great news.   This will allow our farmers across the state to save money, helping them to bring their industry back."

Because many highways are under repair and might have narrow lanes, drivers are expected to review their route for work zone restrictions before beginning their trip.  

They must adhere to all other permit requirements, such as proper signing and lighting, and they must stop at weigh stations.

Farmers should call MoDOT's Motor Carrier Services office at 1-800-877-8499 to report the year, make and license plate number of their power unit and provide their business name and address.   Motor Carrier Services will then issue the permits by fax.