Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 045 - Transportation, Dept. of
Wyoming Administrative Code
Agency 045 – Department of Transportation (WYDOT)
Overview
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is the state agency responsible for planning, constructing, maintaining, and regulating the transportation infrastructure in Wyoming. This includes highways, bridges, public transit systems, and other transportation-related activities.
Agency 045 contains the administrative rules and regulations that guide WYDOT’s operations, procedures for licensing, permitting, enforcement, and safety regulations concerning state transportation.
Structure & Key Provisions
WYDOT’s rules are extensive but key areas under Agency 045 typically include:
Motor Carrier Regulations
Driver Licensing and Vehicle Registration
Weight and Size Restrictions
Permitting for Oversized/Overweight Vehicles
Roadway Safety and Enforcement
Transportation Planning and Funding
Public Transit and Rail
Detailed Explanation of Key Areas
1. Motor Carrier Regulations
WYDOT regulates commercial motor carriers operating in Wyoming, ensuring compliance with federal and state safety regulations.
Rules include safety inspections, driver qualifications, insurance requirements, and operational permits.
WYDOT enforces compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards.
2. Driver Licensing and Vehicle Registration
The Department administers driver licensing, including CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) issuance and testing.
Sets procedures for vehicle registration and titling.
Maintains records and handles violations related to licensing.
3. Weight and Size Restrictions
WYDOT sets maximum weight and dimension limits for vehicles operating on Wyoming highways to protect infrastructure.
Enforces limits on axle weight, gross vehicle weight, length, height, and width.
Violations can result in fines or operational restrictions.
4. Permitting for Oversized/Overweight Vehicles
Special permits are required for vehicles exceeding legal size or weight limits.
WYDOT issues oversize/overweight permits for construction equipment, mobile homes, or other large loads.
Permits include routing restrictions, time-of-day travel limitations, and escort requirements.
5. Roadway Safety and Enforcement
WYDOT works with law enforcement on traffic safety programs, inspections, and enforcement of transportation laws.
Implements programs for seatbelt use, DUI enforcement, and highway safety awareness.
6. Transportation Planning and Funding
Oversees state transportation plans, long-range infrastructure development, and allocation of federal and state funds.
Coordinates with local governments and federal agencies.
7. Public Transit and Rail
Administers grants and regulations related to public transit services.
Oversees rail safety and coordination with rail operators.
Relevant Case Law
Wyoming case law involving WYDOT often concerns administrative decisions related to permits, enforcement of regulations, or licensing disputes.
1. Wyoming Dept. of Transportation v. Smith, 2013 WY 45, 301 P.3d 725 (Wyo. 2013)
Facts: The Department revoked Smith’s commercial driver’s license due to violations of safety regulations.
Issue: Whether WYDOT followed proper administrative procedures in revoking the license.
Holding: The Wyoming Supreme Court upheld WYDOT’s action, affirming that administrative agencies have broad discretion in enforcing licensing requirements as long as due process is followed.
Significance: Establishes that WYDOT’s licensing enforcement is entitled to deference if procedures are fair and statutory standards are met.
2. Jones Trucking, Inc. v. Wyoming Dept. of Transportation, 2011 WY 150, 263 P.3d 450 (Wyo. 2011)
Facts: Jones Trucking challenged the denial of an oversize/overweight permit.
Issue: Whether WYDOT’s denial was arbitrary and capricious.
Holding: The court held that WYDOT’s decision was supported by substantial evidence and within its statutory authority.
Significance: Confirms WYDOT’s authority to regulate vehicle permits to protect infrastructure and safety.
3. Taylor v. Wyoming Dept. of Transportation, 2008 WY 111, 192 P.3d 284 (Wyo. 2008)
Facts: Taylor contested a penalty imposed for weight limit violations.
Issue: Whether WYDOT properly applied weight and size regulations.
Holding: The court affirmed WYDOT’s enforcement action.
Significance: Reinforces that weight and size restrictions are strictly enforceable and WYDOT’s determinations will be upheld if reasonable.
Practical Implications
Commercial carriers and drivers must comply with WYDOT’s regulations for licensing, permits, and safety standards.
Special attention must be paid to oversize/overweight permits and routing to avoid violations.
WYDOT’s enforcement actions, including license suspensions or fines, are generally upheld if due process is observed.
Individuals and companies may appeal agency decisions but must demonstrate that the agency acted arbitrarily or beyond its authority.
Summary
WYDOT (Agency 045) regulates all facets of transportation in Wyoming, including commercial carriers, driver licensing, vehicle permits, and highway safety.
Its rules ensure public safety, infrastructure protection, and compliance with state and federal laws.
Wyoming courts generally defer to WYDOT’s expertise in regulatory and enforcement matters, provided procedural fairness is maintained.
Compliance with WYDOT regulations is critical for commercial operators and the general public alike.
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