The purpose of this "Ordinance Restricting Vehicle Weight on
Posted Ways" (hereinafter, the "Ordinance") is to prevent damage to
Town ways and bridges in the Town of Shapleigh which may be caused
by vehicles of excessive weight, to lessen safety hazards and the
risk of injury to the traveling public, to extend the life expectancy
of Town ways and bridges, and to reduce the public expense of their
maintenance and repair. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to 30-A
M.R.S.A. § 3009 and 29-A M.R.S.A. §§ 2395
and 2388.
Except as otherwise provided herein, the definitions contained
in 29-A M.R.S.A. shall govern the construction of words contained
in this ordinance. Any words not defined therein shall be given their
common and ordinary meaning.
This ordinance shall be administered and may be enforced by
the Road Commissioner and/or law enforcement officer.
Any violation of this ordinance shall be a civil infraction
subject to a fine of not less than $250 nor more than $1,000. Each
violation shall be deemed a separate offense. In addition to any fine,
the municipality may seek restitution for the cost of repairs to any
damaged way or bridge and reasonable attorney fees and costs. Prosecution
shall be in the name of the municipality and shall be brought in the
Maine District Court.
In the event any portion of this ordinance is declared invalid
by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining portions shall
continue in full force and effect. This ordinance shall take effect
immediately upon enactment by the legislative body.