By Shaun Penner

County looking to clear up load securement rules for hay and straw haulers

Oct 7, 2020 | 2:48 PM

COUNTY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE, AB. — The County of Grande Prairie will be making sure that those hauling hay and straw along County roadways know exactly what is required in terms of load securement, as Council has directed administration to compile that information for easy reference on its website and social media pages.

Reeve Leanne Beaupre says the issue came up for discussion at Monday’s regular council meeting, as many council members had been hearing from farmers and producers being uncertain about what the regulations were prior to interactions with County enforcement, which led to infraction tickets being issued.

“There has been some confusion, on provincial highways especially, around what is allowed and isn’t allowed, and what regulations are required to be able to transport that hay and straw safely,” said Beaupre.

In Alberta, it is against the law to transport hay or straw bales that are unsecured and there are axle weight restrictions for all commercial vehicles, which includes hay haulers.

Some exemptions do exist under the Alberta Traffic Safety Act, according to the County of Grande Prairie, for straw and hay haulers in regards to width and height, and cargo securement, which allows for a reduced working load limit of tie-down straps. The County adds that these exemptions only apply under certain circumstances, including not exceeding a 50-kilometre travel radius, not travelling on numbered highways, and not exceeding 80 km/hr.

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Beaupre does add that there are many intricacies to the regulations, which is why the County wants to make it as straight forward as possible to understand the rules.

“We’re an agricultural community. We should have that information readily handy for our producers and commercial haulers, as well.”

County staff will develop an informational sheet, and will post tips on the County’s website and social media regarding hay and straw hauling regulations for County residents and the public to reference, in the near future.