Wisconsin Ag Connection - State DOT Says IoH with Tracks Are Allowed on Roadways

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State DOT Says IoH with Tracks Are Allowed on Roadways
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 09/19/2014

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has indicated that farmers and equipment operators who have track-driven machines can now legally operate those vehicles on state roadways. In an e-mail sent to Deputy State Ag Secretary Jeff Lyon last week, the DOT said it has created a policy called, 'Highway Maintenance Manual Chapter 04-05-02,' to address IoH with tracks.

"A thorough review of Wisconsin statute established that implements of husbandry are exempt from the requirement to have tires," the memo said. "As a result, IoH with tracks are allowed to operate on the road."

The IoH/Ag CMV weight limits established earlier this year will also apply to IoH with tracks. Those machines are also subject to special and seasonal road and structure posting.

The agency says if the exterior support wheels on a track unit are less than 42 inches apart, it is considered one axel for weight distribution purposes.

Meanwhile, the WisDOT recommends that only rubber tracks be used on roadways. Persons using tracked vehicles on pavements are advised to watch for any effect the vehicle has on pavements to prevent damage.

The e-mail went on to say that persons who operate vehicles of any type that cause damage to a highway may be held responsible for all costs to repair and restore the highway to its condition prior to the damage.

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