SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP): A northern Indiana county is placing weight limits for vehicles on some roads to try to combat potholes and other road damage following the state's harsh winter.

The South Bend Tribune reports that starting Monday trucks with a gross weight of 8 tons or more won't be allowed on some St. Joseph County roads. County Engineer Jessica Clark says signs warning drivers will be posted. Violators can be fined $500.

Clark says the ordinance was drafted in 1997, but hasn't been used in recent years. She says the county is trying to protect its infrastructure investments as well as trying to limit repairs.

Certain vehicles, such as school and church buses, public transit vehicles and fire trucks, are exempt. The ordinance can be in place for only 90 days.