The State program allowing Nebraska landowners to obtain hay harvesting permits is now in effect.  Nebraska landowners whose land abuts the state highway right-of-way have until July 30 to apply for and receive a $40.00 haying permit.

After July 30, anyone may apply.  Proof of one-million dollar liability insurance must accompany every application. The $40.00 permits will be available at NDOR area maintenance offices located across Nebraska.

Hay harvesting permits are governed in accordance with Chapter 39, Article 13 of the Neb.Rev.Stat. §39-1359.01. Any hay harvested without a permit will become the property of the State and may be confiscated by the Department.

Applicants wishing to obtain a permit are reminded that if a permit for mowing and harvesting was issued last year, a permit for mowing and harvesting hay from that same area is not allowed this year.  Interstate highways and freeways are excluded from the program.

Abutting landowners who have obtained permits may begin harvesting on July 15, but others are restricted to harvesting between August 1 and September 15.

Complete rules and regulations for hay harvesting can be found at http://www.transportation.nebraska.gov/hay/ or by calling your local state highway maintenance or District office.