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Kentucky Oversize Permit, Wide and Heavy Haul Information

Kentucky | KY

Legal Maximums: Legal Dimensional Limits. Permits will be required if these dimensions are exceeded.

Permit Maximums: Upper limits for permissible dimensions. Loads exceeding these measurements may be categorized as ‘super loads’ in some states, potentially requiring extended processing times and additional regulatory review.

Pilot Car Needed: Loads surpassing these measurements require an escort vehicle or pilot car.

Legal Maximums
Length 53′ 0″
Overhang  
– Total 5′ 0″
– Front N/A
– Back 5′ 0″
Width 8′ 6″
Height 13′ 6″
Weight 80,000 lbs.
Permit Maximums
Length 110′ 0″
Width 16′ 0″
Height 15′ 6″
Weight 160,000 lbs.
Pilot Car Needed
Length 120′ 0″
Overhang  
– Total 10′ 0″
– Front N/A
– Back N/A
Width 12′ 4″
Height 14′ 11″
Weight N/A

Kentucky Oversize and Overweight Trucking Regulations - Safety, Signage, and Visibility Requirements

Key Points for Oversize Transport in Kentucky

  • Oversize loads can generally travel at any time, with some exceptions
  • Kentucky offers various permit types, including single-trip, annual, and blanket permits

Operating Hours and Travel Restrictions in Kentucky

General Travel Rules

  • Travel allowed 24/7 unless otherwise specified on the permit
  • Operators must use designated routes for over-dimensional vehicles
  • Prohibited from using unapproved roads for their particular load

Exceptions and Restrictions

  • Mobile homes: Limited to daylight hours, Monday through Saturday
  • Restricted counties (Boone, Campbell, Fayette, Jefferson, Kenton):
    • No travel between 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. or 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday

Route Considerations

Drivers are responsible for:
  • Adhering to designated routes
  • Measuring all clearances of highway structures (both laterally and vertically) along the route prior to passage

Weather Restrictions

Movement restrictions apply when:
  • A wind advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service
  • Adverse weather or road conditions could cause dangerous situations
  • In such cases, loads over 12 feet wide cannot be moved on highways

Holiday Travel

There are no specific holiday travel restrictions in Kentucky for oversize loads.

Safety First: Equipment Requirements for Oversize Loads

Signage Requirements

  • Required for vehicles exceeding 10 feet 6 inches in width or having a front overhang
  • Two warning signs needed, displaying “OVERSIZE LOAD” in black letters on a yellow background
  • Sign dimensions: 6 to 8 feet in width, letters at least 18 inches high with a brush stroke of at least 1.4 inches
  • Placement: One at the front of the power unit and one at the rear of the towed unit or load

Flag Protocol

  • Overwidth vehicles: Four warning flags, one at each corner
  • Additional flags required at the widest points if any portion extends beyond the four corners
  • Over-length vehicles or those with rear-end overhang: Two warning flags at the extreme rear to indicate maximum width

Lighting Guidelines

  • Front overhang exceeding ten feet: Amber strobe or flashing light on the power unit
  • Light must be in use while the power unit is in operation
  • Additional lighting devices and reflectors required as per 49 C.F.R. 393.11 for pole trailers and projecting loads

Securing Your Kentucky Oversize Permit

Kentucky offers various permit options to accommodate different transport needs:

Permit Types

  • Single Trip Permit: For a single, one-way trip
  • Annual Permit: Valid for a one-year period for frequent haulers
  • Blanket Permit: Issued for multiple trips with similar characteristics

How to Obtain a Permit

You can acquire permits through the following methods:
  • Online: Visit the Kentucky state website
  • Phone: Call 1-502-515-1575

Mastering Oversize Transport in the Bluegrass State

Successfully managing oversize and overweight loads in Kentucky requires a thorough understanding of the state’s unique regulations. By adhering to designated routes, equipping your vehicle with proper safety gear, and securing the necessary permits, you can ensure smooth and compliant transport across Kentucky’s diverse landscape. Remember, staying informed about weather conditions and county-specific restrictions is crucial for safe and efficient oversize load transportation in the Bluegrass State.

Select your desired state below for detailed permit guidelines.

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