Bill > HB597

This bill creates a new law that allows farm tractors to obtain an annual excess gross weight permit for operation on county, farm-to-market, and ranch-to-market roads. The permit will allow farm tractors (as defined in state law) to carry up to 10% more weight than their standard maximum gross weight, with some specific requirements and limitations. To qualify, the farm tractor must be registered as a farm vehicle, and the owner must pay an annual fee of $90 and specify which counties the tractor will operate in. The permit must be carried in the tractor and does not override existing bridge weight limits. Importantly, counties are prohibited from requiring additional permits or fees beyond this state-level permit. The $90 permit fee will be equally divided and distributed to the counties listed in the permit application, to be deposited in their road and bridge funds. The bill also gives the state department authority to create rules for implementing this permit program. The law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing farmers with a standardized way to transport agricultural equipment with a bit more flexibility in vehicle weight.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB597