La Crosse to Require Permit for Frac Sand Loading

La Crosse officials will now require a permit to load and unload frac sand within the city limits. It’s one of the many tools municipalities are using to prepare for the mining boom.

La Crosse County has not received any frac sand mining applications. But businesses wanting to unload any mining materials at ports, railroads, or truck terminals in the city of La Crosse will have to apply for a conditional use permit. City officials say it’s a way to prepare for a possible increase in the number of frac sand shipping facilities. The City Council doubled the permit application fee to $600, and neighbors within 1000 feet must be notified about proposed loading facilities.

City Council member Andrea Richmond says she’s concerned one of the railway facilities could be built in the middle of a residential area: “You have a lot of people in the community that are very concerned about frac sand hauling. The issue was raised and that affects the whole community if that is going to be frac sand hauling.”

Residents have expressed concerns about facility noise and lighting.

BNSF Railway Company has inquired about purchasing property, but no final proposals have been submitted.

There have also been inquiries about loading and unloading frac sand onto Mississippi River barges.

La Crosse City Planner Larry Kirch says establishing the permit comes at the right time, before the industry really takes off, “There’s not a lot happening because there’s moratoriums all over the place. If those get lifted and appropriate measures are taken at the mining site, then this type of mining might open up.”

City officials say there’s a chance federal law will override the La Crosse’s ordinance.