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Iowa Oversize Permit, Wide and Heavy Haul Information

Iowa | IA

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 4′ 0″
– Front N/A
– Back 4′ 0″
Width 8′ 6″
Height 13′ 6″
Weight 80,000 lbs.
Permit Maximums
Length 120′ 0″
Width 14′ 0″
Height N/A
Weight 100,000 lbs.
Pilot Car Needed
Length 85′ 0″
Overhang  
– Total N/A
– Front N/A
– Back N/A
Width 14′ 6″
Height 14′ 6″
Weight N/A

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

Operating Hours and Travel Restrictions in Iowa

Iowa’s regulations for oversize loads are designed to balance transportation needs with road safety:

Standard Operating Hours

  • Vehicles not exceeding 11 feet in width, 14 feet 4 inches in height, and 100 feet in length may travel at any time
  • Proper signage and lighting as specified on the permit are required for continuous travel

Restricted Travel Areas

Special considerations for Des Moines I-235:
  • Travel prohibited from 7:00 – 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 – 6:00 P.M., Monday through Friday
  • Movement curfews on other Des Moines highways are at the officer’s discretion when traffic is overcrowded

Holiday Restrictions

Oversize load movement is prohibited on the following holidays:
  • Memorial Day
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day

Additional Restrictions

Any other specific restrictions, limits, or exceptions will be stated on the permit. Always check your permit for the most up-to-date information.

Safety First: Equipment Requirements for Oversize Loads

Signage Requirements

  • Oversized load signs must be visible to the rear throughout the whole day and night
  • If towed units are being operated faster than 35 mph, the signage must be hidden from view or wholly removed

Flag Protocol

  • Flags required on each front corner of the towing unit
  • Flags needed on each back corner of the actual load
  • Additional flags required anywhere else with extremities protruding from the load
  • On Iowa roads, flags are always required when the rear overhang exceeds 4 feet on the oversized vehicle

Lighting Guidelines

  • A rotating amber light with 84 inches in height and 84 inches in diameter is required for oversized vehicles traveling in Iowa
  • If a light cannot be mounted on the rear of an over-dimensional towing unit, a pilot car can be used as a replacement

Securing Your Iowa Oversize Permit

Iowa offers a variety of permit options to accommodate different transport needs:

Single Trip or Round Trip Permits

Valid for five days, these include:
  • Standard Single or Round Trip
  • Single or Round for Self-Propelled Cranes
  • Single or Round Trip for Private Carriers Moving Own Equipment (Not for Hire)
  • Single Trip for Fire Trucks or Military Vehicles
  • Single Trip for Long Combination Vehicle
  • Single Trip with Weight Increase (House moves only)
  • Single or Round for Self-Propelled Construction Equipment (Only needed when axles exceed 20,000 pounds)

Multi-Trip Permits

  • Valid for 60 days maximum
  • Allows unlimited traveling between two points on a single route
  • Maximum gross vehicle weight: 156,000 pounds

Annual Trip Permits

Iowa’s Oversize Annual Trip Permits include:
  • Oversize/Overweight Permit
  • Small and Large Annual Oversize
  • Raw Forest Products
  • Raw Milk
  • Compacted Rubbish Vehicles

How to Obtain a Permit

For more information on obtaining oversize and over-dimensional permits in Iowa, call (888) 799-8858.

Mastering Oversize Transport in the Hawkeye State

Successfully managing oversize and overweight loads in Iowa requires a thorough understanding of the state’s unique regulations. By adhering to specified operating hours, equipping your vehicle with proper safety gear, and securing the necessary permits, you can ensure smooth and compliant transport across Iowa’s diverse landscape. Remember, staying informed about local restrictions and holiday limitations is crucial for safe and efficient oversize load transportation in the Hawkeye State.

Select your desired state below for detailed permit guidelines.

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