...
Skip to content

South Dakota Oversize Permit, Wide and Heavy Haul Information

South Dakota | SD

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 7′ 0″
– Front 3′ 0″
– Back 4′ 0″
Width 8′ 6″
Height 14′ 0″
Weight 80,000 lbs.
Permit Maximums
Length 130′ 0″
Width 16′ 0″
Height N/A
Weight 200,000 lbs.
Pilot Car Needed
Length 130′ 0″
Overhang  
– Total N/A
– Front N/A
– Back N/A
Width 16′ 0″
Height N/A
Weight N/A

South Dakota Oversize and Overweight Trucking Regulations - Safety, Signage, and Visibility Requirements

Operating Hours and Travel Restrictions in South Dakota

Standard Operating Hours

South Dakota maintains strict operating hours for large loads:

  • Travel permitted from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset
  • Nighttime travel is generally prohibited
  • Weekend movement of larger loads is discouraged

Special Considerations

  • The Department of Transportation may issue special travel permits, but this is uncommon
  • Large loads are prohibited in overly congested areas

Holiday Restrictions

Avoid moving larger loads on the following holidays:

  • New Year’s Day
  • Good Friday
  • Memorial Day
  • Independence Day
  • Labor Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day

Note: The permit office is closed on national holidays, so plan your trips accordingly.

Safety First: Equipment Requirements for Oversize Loads

Most large shipments in South Dakota require a variety of equipment to enhance visibility and ensure safety.

Signage Requirements

  • Display “Oversize Load” signs on both the front and back of the vehicle for loads:
    • Exceeding 12 feet in width
    • Exceeding 95 feet in length
    • Traveling overnight
  • Remove or cover signs when not required
  • Signs should be reflective for night travel

Flag Protocol

  • Flags required in each corner of loads exceeding legal limits
  • For loads 8 feet 6 inches wide or larger, mark any areas extending outside the vehicle
  • Use standard orange or red flags to alert other motorists

Lighting Guidelines

For nighttime travel, equip your load with:

  • Amber lights
  • Red lights
  • Reflective materials

Securing Your South Dakota Oversize Permit

How to Obtain a Permit

For permit information and acquisition:

  • Call the South Dakota Department of Transportation: 605-773-7144
  • Fax your request to: 605-773-7144
  • Available hours: Monday through Friday, 5:00 am to 5:00 pm Central Time
  • Online: Submit permit requests on the South Dakota Department of Transportation website

Mastering Oversize Transport in the Mount Rushmore State

Navigating South Dakota with oversize and overweight loads requires careful adherence to the state’s specific regulations. By respecting the daytime-only travel hours, equipping your vehicle with proper safety gear, and planning around holiday restrictions, you can ensure smooth and compliant transport across South Dakota’s diverse landscape. Remember to secure your permits well in advance, especially considering office closures on national holidays. With proper planning and attention to detail, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the unique challenges of oversize transport in the Mount Rushmore State.

Select your desired state below for detailed permit guidelines.

Premium Trucking Dispatch Services For Owner Operators and Trucking Companies

Getting Started Is Easy

Sign Agreement

Sign a quick service agreement

Send Us Your Docs

MC Authority, W-9, and Insurance

Start Hauling Loads

We begin dispatching immediately

We do require for a Carrier To Have At Least 4 Months of Active Authority. We only dispatch semi-truck with trailers. No box, cargo van, or hotshot dispatching available at the moment. 

Fill Out The Form Below To Get In Touch

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.