Article 16 — WEIGHT AND SPEED LIMITS ON BRIDGES

Section 35750(b) of the California Vehicle Code authorizes the Board of Supervisors to determine the maximum weight of vehicle and load which a bridge or other structure under its jurisdiction with safety to itself will sustain. Section 35751 states the Board shall make an engineering investigation and hold a public hearing whenever such a determination appears necessary.

The Board of Supervisors delegates the engineering investigation and determination for the proper posting of a maximum weight of vehicle and load to the Road Commissioner. The Road Commissioner shall install such signs where a Civil or Structural Engineer licensed by the State of California has determined traffic safety and/or roadway operation will be enhanced.

The Board also delegates the public hearing be held by the San Diego County Traffic Advisory Committee and notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be posted upon the bridge or other structure at least five days before the date fixed for the hearing in accordance with Section 35751(b) of the California Vehicle Code. Upon the basis of the investigation and all evidence presented at the hearing, the San Diego County Traffic Advisory Committee shall determine by order in writing the maximum weight of vehicle and load which the bridge or other structure with safety to itself will sustain. Fourteen days prior to the hearing written notice shall be given to the local Fire Protection District and Community Planning/Sponsor Group (where applicable).

The determined maximum weight of vehicle and load which the bridge can sustain shall be posted for a period of ten (10) days after the public hearing. If there is opposition to the proposed maximum weight of vehicle and load, the matter may be appealed to the Board of Supervisors.

Signs shall be erected and maintained at both entrances to every bridge hereafter specified in this article, which signs shall specify the maximum weight limit and/or maximum speed limit prescribed in this article.

(Amended by Ord. No. 9907 (N.S.), effective 1-4-08)

It shall be unlawful for any person to drive or operate a vehicle upon a bridge hereafter specified in this article when the maximum gross weight of said vehicle and load carried by such vehicle exceeds the weight limit indicated by a sign erected pursuant to this division at the entrance to such bridge.