Apply for Harvest Season Permits Beginning September 1

BY KAY SHIPMAN, FARMWEEKNOW.COM

Farmers may apply for Harvest Season Permits starting Sept. 1, according to Kirby Wagner, Illinois Farm Bureau assistant director of transportation and infrastructure.

Farmers statewide may apply for a special permit that allows up to a maximum 10% over their gross vehicle weight, axle weight, and registered weight limits. For permits on state routes, farmers must obtain a permit from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

Wagner pointed out Harvest Season Permits are required for any county, municipal and/or township road farmers will haul on. Those permits must be obtained from each road jurisdiction.

Farmers must carry the IDOT harvest season permit and biweekly route authorization with them, which may be carried electronically on a smartphone or tablet. Along with the permit and route authorization, form OPER 993 must be carried.