SB376 Alabama 2011 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Cam Ward

Republican

Co-Sponsors

Bryan TaylorGerald O. DialClay ScofieldDick BrewbakerGreg J. ReedJimmy HolleyScott BeasonRoger Bedford, Jr.Ben H. BrooksDel MarshJ.T. WaggonerGerald H. AllenTom Whatley

Session

Regular Session 2011

Title

County roads, forestry harvesting operations, prior notice to county commission, limitations, civil fines, other permits, bonds prohibited, Sec. 23-1-80.1 added

Summary

SB376 lets counties require prior written notice before timber harvesting on county roads in unincorporated areas, with specific notice details and civil fines for violations.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, counties can adopt an ordinance requiring written notice before timber harvests on 10-acre+ tracts. The notice must include a map or legal description, planned routes on county roads, and the purchaser’s contact information, and it must be filed with the county; it becomes effective when filed and stays in effect until harvesting is finished. Violations can incur civil fines up to $500 per violation, with a hearing before the fine is levied. The rule would prohibit other notices, permits, licenses, or security requirements to use county roads for hauling forest products, and any changes in material facts must be reported within three business days.

Who It Affects

• Timber harvesters or firms that harvest standing timber in unincorporated areas and haul products on county roads; they must file the specified notice for each 10-acre+ tract and follow the planned routes, or risk civil fines.
• County governments (county commissions) in Alabama; they gain authority to adopt the notice ordinance, administer notices and fines, and decide road-use permissions based on public safety.

Key Provisions

• A county commission may adopt an ordinance requiring written prior notice for timber harvesting in unincorporated areas, for delivery to wood yards or processing plants.
• Notice must cover each 10-acre+ tract and include: a map/description of the tract and haul routes, routes on county roads, purchaser’s name/address/phone, and submission method to the county office.
• Notice becomes effective upon filing and remains in effect until harvesting is completed; changes in material facts must be reported within three business days.
• Violations are punishable by civil fines up to $500 per violation, with a hearing prior to the levy.
• Other notices, permits, licenses, or road security requirements beyond this act are prohibited for using county roads to haul forest products.
• The act does not shield operators from liability for damages arising from road use, and it applies to timber harvested on or after the effective date of the ordinance.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after it passes and is approved by the Governor.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Counties