TITLE 24. TRANSPORTATION AND MOTOR VEHICLES
Title of Regulation: 24VAC20-81. Hauling Permit Regulation (adding 24VAC20-81-10 through 24VAC20-81-250).
Statutory Authority: § 46.2-203 and Article 18 (§ 46.2-1139 et seq.) of Chapter 10 of Title 46.2 of the Code of Virginia.
Public Hearing Information:
November 4, 2008 - 1 p.m. - Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, 2300 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA
November 21, 2008 - 1 p.m. - Mary D. Pretlow Library, 111 West Ocean View Avenue, Norfolk, VA
Public Comments: Public comments may be submitted until December 27, 2008.
Agency Contact: Ron Thompson, Senior Policy Analyst, Department of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269-0001, telephone (804) 367-1844, FAX (804) 367-6631, TTY (800) 435-5137, or email ronald.thompson@dmv.virginia.gov.
Basis: Under § 46.2-203 and Article 18 (§ 46.2-1139 et seq.) of Chapter 10 of Title 46.2 of the Code of Virginia, the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles may adopt reasonable administrative regulations necessary to carry out the laws administered by the department and may enforce these regulations and laws through the agencies of the Commonwealth he may designate.
Purpose: The Code of Virginia sets forth limitations of weight, width, height, and length for objects and vehicles that may be moved over the highways of the Commonwealth. Pursuant to Article 18 (§ 46.2-1139 et. seq.) of Chapter 10 of Title 46.2 of the Code of Virginia, oversize or overweight permits may be issued for vehicles with loads that exceed these maximum statutory limits. As a result of legislation enacted in the 2003 session of the Virginia General Assembly, responsibility for the issuance of these permits was transferred from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on July 1, 2003. The Hauling Permit Section, which reviews applications and issues these permits to haul over dimensional loads and configurations, was transferred from VDOT to DMV on that date.
The Hauling Permit Manual, which governs the issuance of oversize and overweight permits by the Hauling Permit Section based on state law, is currently contained as a regulation in the Virginia Administrative Code under VDOT (24VAC30-111). The manual is being revised to reflect the transfer of the permit issuance function and the organizational unit to DMV. This document is also being modified to clarify requirements relating to safety and enforcement in the hauling of these large loads, to enhance the ability of the Commonwealth to work cooperatively with other states in key areas such as escort vehicle requirements, and to reflect new technologies now available to assist customers. The revised manual will be a new regulation, and DMV will work cooperatively with VDOT to request the repeal of the existing 24VAC30-111.
Substance: In order to reflect the transfer of the responsibility for the issuance of oversize and overweight permits from VDOT to DMV, references to the "Commonwealth Transportation Board” and the “Department of Transportation" will be changed to the "commissioner" or the "Department of Motor Vehicles" as appropriate. In addition, key contact information in the manual such as telephone numbers and mailing addresses are being updated to reflect the relocation of the Hauling Permit Section to DMV.
In addition to incorporating this organizational change, the revision of the Hauling Permit Manual will address other relevant program areas. The safety of Virginia’s citizens and highways is a key component in the movement of large objects and vehicles. The manual is being modified to clarify the requirements that must be met by applicants for a hauling permit. These requirements are discussed in depth under the "detail of changes" section.
Issues: This regulatory action poses no disadvantages to the public or the Commonwealth of Virginia. It will protect the citizens of Virginia by ensuring that over dimensional loads and configurations are transported safely over the highways and roads of our state.
The Department of Planning and Budget's Economic Impact Analysis:
Summary of the Proposed Amendments to Regulation. The proposed regulations will 1) establish the regulatory authority of the Department of Motor Vehicles in issuing hauling permits by proposing much of the same hauling permit regulations that currently exists under the authority of the Virginia Department of Transportation, 2) establish Escort Driver Certification fees, 3) increase hauling permit fees, 4) no longer require that a hauling permit be assumed invalid if a permit condition is violated, 5) allow reciprocity of escort services by other jurisdictions, and 6) require Virginia Department of Transportation to conduct an engineering analysis for Superload Blanket Permits.
Result of Analysis. There is insufficient data to accurately compare the magnitude of the benefits versus the costs.
Estimated Economic Impact. The movement of oversize or overweight loads on the highways of the Commonwealth is subject to these regulations. Prior to 2003, Hauling Permit Regulation (24VAC30-111) was administered by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). The 2003 session of the Virginia General Assembly has transferred the hauling permit authority and the administrative resources from VDOT to Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Since then DMV has been issuing permits according to the standards and procedures established in the VDOT regulations.
With this action, DMV proposes to establish the Hauling Permit Regulation in its own administrative code. The majority of the proposed requirements are the same as the requirements contained in 24VAC30-111, but are revised to reflect the transfer of the permit section from VDOT to DMV and to improve the clarity of some of the requirements.1 Because most of the requirements are the same, there will be no significant change in practice. Thus, no significant economic effect is expected from the proposed requirements that are the same as those contained in the VDOT regulations.
The proposed regulations also introduce new requirements that are not contained in VDOT regulations. One of the significant changes is the establishment of Escort Driver Certification fees. Currently, escort driver certifications are offered by the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in exchange for approximately $30,000 from DMV per year. According to DMV, VCU no longer wishes to offer these certifications. In order to meet the need, DMV plans to start its own certification program. It is estimated that approximately 3,000 certificates per year will be issued generating approximately $75,000 in certification fees.
Also, the proposed changes will increase the hauling permit fees. Approximately 35,000 to 40,000 hauling permits are issued every year. Based on the analysis of 2005 revenues, the proposed fee increases are estimated to generate an additional $1 million annually, an increase from $2.3 million to $3.3 million. DMV plans to use the additional revenues to purchase new scales, information technology system upgrades, personnel, and maintenance of new scales, systems and equipment. Maintaining operational stock of scales and improved information technology system are expected to provide DMV with necessary tools in order to minimize potential harm or damage to highways through enforcement of these regulations.
Another proposed change will no longer require that the permit be completely invalid if permit conditions are violated. Currently, if a law enforcement officer finds a violation of a permit condition, the fine is issued based on the assumption that there was no hauling permit issued at all. This situation is reported to result in excessive (tens of thousands of dollars) fines issued to operators most of which are later reduced significantly by judges in courts. With this change, law enforcement officers will have the ability to issue the fines that are proportionate with the seriousness of violation instead of issuing exorbitant fines as if no hauling permit existed. This change is expected to reduce administrative and legal costs associated with disputes over excessive fines.
Also, the proposed regulations will allow reciprocity of escort services by other states. Currently, as the loads enter or exit the Commonwealth they may have to change their escort services in order to meet differing requirements among different states. With the proposed changes, an escort service in the Commonwealth may be recognized by other states and escort services in other states may be recognized by the Commonwealth. This proposed change is expected to reduce compliance costs by providing additional flexibility to hauling operators.
Finally, the proposed regulations will require VDOT to conduct an engineering analysis for Superload Blanket Permits (for loads over 150,000 pounds gross weight). Since 2003, when DMV started administering the hauling permit regulations, no engineering analysis has been conducted on these loads. The proposed engineering analysis will help ensure that the structures on highways are not harmed or damaged.
Businesses and Entities Affected. The proposed regulations primarily affect hauling permit holders and escort service providers. According to DMV, approximately 35,000 to 40,000 permits and approximately 3,000 escort certifications are issued every year. In addition, the proposed regulations may have some effect on VDOT, VCU, and law enforcement officers.
Localities Particularly Affected. The proposed regulations apply throughout the Commonwealth.
Projected Impact on Employment. The proposed regulations may increase demand for labor as a result of planned escort driver certification program at DMV and install and maintenance of new scales and new information technology system. On the other hand, increased compliance costs due to new escort driver certification and higher permit fees may reduce the demand for hauling services. The net impact on labor demand is not known.
Effects on the Use and Value of Private Property. No significant effect on real property is expected. However, increased compliance costs due to new escort driver certification and higher permit fees may reduce the revenues of hauling services and their asset values. On the other hand to the extent hauling operators avoid excessive fines due to the proposed changes, their asset values may be enhanced.
Small Businesses: Costs and Other Effects. Most of the hauling operators and escort service businesses are believed to be small businesses. As discussed, the proposed regulations are likely to increase compliance costs primarily due to new escort driver certification and higher permit fees.
Small Businesses: Alternative Method that Minimizes Adverse Impact. The main reason for the proposed new escort driver certification fees and increased hauling permit fees is to generate revenues to support the administration and enforcement of the proposed regulations. An alternative method that minimizes the adverse impact on the affected small business would be finding a different source of funding.
Real Estate Development Costs. No significant effect on real estate development costs is expected.
Legal Mandate. The Department of Planning and Budget (DPB) has analyzed the economic impact of this proposed regulation in accordance with § 2.2-4007.04 of the Administrative Process Act and Executive Order Number 36 (06). Section 2.2-4007.04 requires that such economic impact analyses include, but need not be limited to, the projected number of businesses or other entities to whom the regulation would apply, the identity of any localities and types of businesses or other entities particularly affected, the projected number of persons and employment positions to be affected, the projected costs to affected businesses or entities to implement or comply with the regulation, and the impact on the use and value of private property. Further, if the proposed regulation has adverse effect on small businesses, § 2.2-4007.04 requires that such economic impact analyses include (i) an identification and estimate of the number of small businesses subject to the regulation; (ii) the projected reporting, recordkeeping, and other administrative costs required for small businesses to comply with the regulation, including the type of professional skills necessary for preparing required reports and other documents; (iii) a statement of the probable effect of the regulation on affected small businesses; and (iv) a description of any less intrusive or less costly alternative methods of achieving the purpose of the regulation. The analysis presented above represents DPB’s best estimate of these economic impacts.
______________________
1 DMV plans to coordinate the repeal of VDOT regulations when these regulations are in effect.
Agency's Response to the Department of Planning and Budget's Economic Impact Analysis: The agency concurs with the analysis of the Department of Planning and Budget.
Summary:
The Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for the issuance of oversize and overweight permits for the movement of objects and vehicles that exceed the statutory limits set forth in the Code of Virginia. The proposed regulation is a new regulation that will contain the Hauling Permit Manual. This manual establishes the requirements for the issuance of hauling permits and the movement of these objects and vehicles over the highways of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
CHAPTER 81
HAULING PERMIT REGULATION
Part I
General Provisions
24VAC20-81-10. Definitions.
The following words and terms when used in this regulation shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Automobile and watercraft transporters" means a tractor truck, lowboy, vehicle, or combination, including vehicles or combinations that transport motor vehicles or watercraft on their power unit, designed and used exclusively for the transportation of motor vehicles or watercraft.
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
"DMV" means the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
"Escort Vehicle Driver Certification" means a document issued by a state that signifies that the holder of the certification has successfully completed the issuing state's requirements to escort overdimensional vehicle configurations.
"Nondivisible load" means a vehicle configuration exceeding applicable size or weight limits which, if separated into smaller loads, would:
1. Compromise the intended use of the vehicle, i.e., make it unable to perform the function for which it was intended;
2. Destroy the value of the load or vehicle, i.e., make it unusable for its intended purpose; or
3. Require more than eight man work hours to dismantle using appropriate equipment.
The applicant for a nondivisible load permit has the burden of proof as to the number of man work hours required to dismantle the load.
"Off-centered load" means a transport vehicle's cargo is loaded so that there is no overhang on the driver's side of the transport vehicle and overhang on the passenger side.
"Semitrailer" means a vehicle of the trailer type so designed and used in conjunction with a motor vehicle that some part of its own weight and that of its own load rest on or is carried by another vehicle.
"Solid waste" means any garbage, refuse, sludge and other discarded material, including solid, liquid, semisolid or contained gaseous material, resulting from industrial, commercial, mining and agricultural operations, or community activities but does not include (i) solid or dissolved material in domestic sewage, (ii) solid or dissolved material in irrigation return flows or in industrial discharges that are sources subject to a permit from the State Water Control Board, or (iii) source, special nuclear, or byproduct material as defined by the Federal Atomic Energy Act of 1954.
"Stinger-steered automobile and watercraft transporter" means an automobile or watercraft transporter configured as a semitrailer combination wherein the fifth wheel is located on a drop frame behind and below the rearmost axle of the power unit.
"Tandem axle" means more than 40 inches but not more than 96 inches between axle centers of two consecutive axles.
"Tractor truck" means a motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles and not so constructed as to carry a load other than a part of the load and weight of the vehicle attached thereto.
"Trailer" means a vehicle without motive power designed for carrying property or passengers wholly on its own structure and for being drawn by a motor vehicle, including manufactured housing.
"Truck" means a motor vehicle designed to transport property on its own structure independent of any other vehicle and having a registered gross weight in excess of 7,500 pounds.
"VDOT" means the Virginia Department of Transportation.
"Vehicle configuration" means the height, weight, width and length of a vehicle to include vehicle axle spacing.
24VAC20-81-20. General.
A. The Code of Virginia sets forth limitations of weight, width, height and length of objects and vehicles that may be moved upon state highways and also empowers the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue oversize or overweight permits for vehicles traveling over Virginia's highways with loads that, when reduced to their smallest dimensions, exceed maximum legal weight or size limits.
B. The intent of establishing statutory limitations is to protect the traveling public from hazard and unnecessary inconvenience, and to preserve the capacity and structural integrity of highways and bridges. Also, it is assumed that the state legislature did not intend for the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles to allow, by permit, the movement of any and all vehicles or loads over the highways where such movements would exceed statutory limitations (especially where other forms of transportation are available or when loads can be reasonably reduced to meet statutory limits).
C. Permits issued by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles have jurisdiction only on those roads maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation or where an agreement exists between the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and a jurisdiction that bears the responsibility of maintaining their own roads. However, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle's hauling permit is valid for travel over city streets provided that the streets are listed within the permit. Applicants must secure approval from local authorities prior to making movements over roads under local jurisdictions that are not listed on the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle's hauling permit.
D. The policy of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles is to give primary consideration to the safety, comfort, convenience of the traveling public and to the economic interest of the Commonwealth while preserving the integrity of the state's highway system.
24VAC20-81-30. Authority; permits.
A. The Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles or his designee shall issue hauling permits for qualifying vehicles when: an overwidth situation is not created by loading multiple items side-by-side; an overheight situation is not created by stacking multiple items on top of one another; an overlength situation is not created by loading multiple items behind one another; an overweight situation is not created by carrying multiple items; or when statutorily exempted by the Code of Virginia.
B. All applications for hauling permits shall be made to the Department of Motor Vehicles or its designee by:
1. Accessing the hauling permit website online at www.dmvnow.com;
2. Calling the hauling permit ordering line at (804) 786-2787;
3. Applying through a permit service chosen by the applicant;
4. Applying in person at the DMV Headquarters Office at 2300 W. Broad St., Richmond;
5. Faxing application to the Hauling Permit Section at (804) 367-0063; or
6. Mailing application to: DMV, Hauling Permit Section, P.O. Box 23602, Richmond, VA 2326.
C. Permits may be denied, revoked or declared invalid as stated in 24VAC20-81-230.
Part II
Legal Weight and Size Limits for Virginia
24VAC20-81-40. Interstate system and designated highways.
If the vehicle configuration has been reduced to the smallest dimensions possible and still exceeds any of the following statutory limitations listed below, the applicant may be eligible for a hauling permit.
Single Axle Weight: | 20,000 pounds or 650 pounds per inch (width) of tire in contact with the surface of the highway |
Tandem Axle Weight: | 34,000 pounds |
Gross Weight: | See 24VAC20-81-60. Legal weight allowed based on axle spacing |
Width: | 8 feet 6 inches (excluding mirrors and safety devices) |
Height: | 13 feet 6 inches |
Length: | Semitrailer - 48 feet |
Semitrailer - 53 feet, provided that the semitrailer has a distance of not more than 41 feet between the kingpin of the semitrailer and the rearmost axle or a point midway between the rear tandem axles. |
Tractor truck semitrailer combinations with 48 or 53 foot semitrailers - no overall length restrictions. |
Twin trailers - 28 1/2 feet each |
Single unit vehicle - 40 feet excluding load |
Tractor trucks shall not have more than one semitrailer attached.
Trucks shall not have more than one trailer attached.
Three motor vehicles shall be drawn only if coupled together by a saddle mount device.
24VAC20-81-50. Primary and secondary systems.
If the vehicle configuration has been reduced to the smallest dimensions possible and still exceeds any of the following statutory limitations listed below, the applicant may be eligible for a hauling permit.
Single Axle Weight: | 20,000 pounds or 650 pounds per inch (width) of tire in contact with the surface of the highway. |
Tandem Axle Weight: | 34,000 pounds. |
Gross Weight: | See 24VAC20-81-60. Legal weight allowed based on axle spacing. |
Width: | 8 feet 6 inches excluding mirrors. Safety devices shall not exceed 3 inches on each side. |
Height: | 13 feet 6 inches. |
Length: | Single unit - 40 feet excluding load. |
Tractor semitrailer combination - 65 feet including load |
Combination of a towing vehicle and any manufactured housing - 65 feet including load and coupling. |
Semitrailer - 53 feet, provided that the semitrailer has a distance of not more than 41 feet between the kingpin of the semitrailer and the rearmost axle or a point midway between the rear tandem axles. May be prohibited on certain highways where posted. |
24VAC20-81-60. Legal weight allowed based on axle spacing.
Legal weight in pounds for any group of two or more consecutive axles. A hauling permit is required when a vehicle configuration exceeds the weight limitations according to axle spacing. "L" is defined as the distance in feet between the extremes of any group of two or more consecutive axles.
Part III
Description, Requirements and Limitations of Special Permits Available
24VAC20-81-90. Single trip permit.
Single trip permits are issued to cover one movement between two specific points. Single trip permits are vehicle specific and cannot be transferred between vehicle configurations. Most single trip permits are valid for a 13-day period; however the Hauling Permit Section may restrict any single trip permit movement to a lesser period depending on various circumstances such as weather, routes of travel, construction projects, overall dimensions of the vehicle configuration or other unforeseen circumstances. No refunds or credits will be granted for unused or expired permits.
Single trip permits are vehicle specific and cannot be transferred between vehicles. Since the permits are vehicle specific, the original permit or a legible copy of the entire permit is required to be carried in the transport vehicle. This permit shall be presented to Department of Motor Vehicles, law enforcement or Department of Transportation officials when requested.
Maximum Size and Weight Limitations for the Single Trip Permit |
Height: | 15 feet |
Width: | 15 feet |
Length: | 100 feet |
Single Axle: | 24,000 pounds |
Tandem Axle: | 44,000 pounds |
Tri-Axle: | Maximum weight based on total amount of spacings between the centers of the first and last axle in the 3 axle group - see 24VAC20-81-80. |
Quad Axle: | Maximum weight based on total amount of spacings between the centers of the first and last axle in the 4 axle group - see 24VAC20-81-80. |
Gross Weight: | Maximum weight based on total number of axles in the configuration and total amount of spacings between the centers of the first and last axles - see 24VAC20-81-80. |
24VAC20-81-100. Superload single trip permit.
A. Like the single trip permit, superload single trip permits are issued to cover one movement between two specific points. Superload single trip permit requests exceed the maximum weight or size limitations allowed on a single trip permit. Superload single trip permit requests require various levels of research and analysis and should be submitted to the Hauling Permit Section at least 10 working days prior to the anticipated date of movement. All superload single trip permits are issued on a case-by-case basis, and only after an appropriate review or VDOT engineering analysis has determined that the vehicle configuration will not harm or damage bridges and structures on the designated routes of travel. Results of the review or engineering analysis may render the vehicle configuration ineligible for movement.
Superload single trip permits are vehicle specific and cannot be transferred between vehicles. Since superload single trip permits are vehicle specific, the original permit or a legible copy of the entire permit is required to be carried in the transport vehicle. This permit shall be presented to Department of Motor Vehicles, law enforcement or Department of Transportation officials when requested.
In cases where the superload single trip permit request has been denied due to weight, the customer may request that an in-depth engineering analysis be performed on the desired route of travel. VDOT structures and bridges engineers will perform the in-depth engineering analysis. The applicant is responsible for paying all expenses associated with the in-depth engineering analysis. All requests for an in-depth analysis must be submitted to the Hauling Permit Section in writing. Upon receipt of the letter requesting the in-depth analysis a member of the hauling permit staff will assist the applicant through the remainder of the process.
B. Requirements for superload single trip permits exceeding certain parameters are described in this subsection:
A letter of variance is required on all movements that exceed any of the following parameters: 18 feet in width; 250,000 pounds in weight; 200 feet in length; or 16 feet in height. The shipper or the manufacturer of the oversized or overweight item will submit the information listed below to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles: FAX: (804) 367-0063 or mailed to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, Hauling Permit Section, P.O. Box 26302, Richmond, VA 23260. The letter shall list, in detail:
1. Name and description of the item being moved;
2. Overall loaded dimensions for the vehicle configuration to include height, width, length and gross weight;
3. Explanation of why the load cannot be reduced;
4. Explanation of why the load cannot be transported by air, rail or water;
5. Origin and destination specific to Virginia, including mileage and specific intersecting routes (e.g., Route 65 - one mile south of Route 2 in Campbell County);
6. Preferred routes of travel; and
7. Point of contact, someone within the company that can speak to the requested movement in case additional information is needed.
C. In addition to the letter of variance all movements that exceed 18 feet in width or 16 feet in height may be required to submit a detailed travel plan, depending on the time of travel and the routes of travel. The plan should include but is not limited to the following:
1. The plan should address how to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles responding to emergencies. The plan will also identify locations where the overdimensional configuration will pull over to allow movement of traffic. Traffic shall not be detained for more than 10 minutes if at all possible. The plan will also address layover locations.
2. Letters from property owners or public facilities giving permission to layover on their property until able to proceed in accordance with the permit. Each letter shall include the name, phone number and email address of the primary point of contact. The hauling permit staff will contact the point of contact to confirm the layover privileges on their property prior to DMV issuing the superload single trip permit.
3. Letters from local law-enforcement personnel agreeing to escort the overdimensional configuration through their jurisdiction. Each letter shall include the name, phone number and email address of the primary point of contact. The hauling permit staff will contact the point of contact to confirm their escorting role prior to DMV issuing the superload single trip permit.
4. Letters from affected utility, cable and telephone companies, agreeing to accompany the overdimensional configuration to lift overhead wires. Each letter shall include the name, phone number and email address of the primary point of contact. The hauling permit staff will contact the point of contact to confirm their role in the move prior to DMV issuing the hauling permit.
5. Letters from the Department of Transportation agreeing to accompany the overdimensional configuration to lift overhead traffic signals, remove traffic signals arms, or remove guardrails, or remove signs, or remove and or adjust any inventory maintained by their department. Each letter shall include the name, phone number and email address of the primary point of contact. The hauling permit staff will contact the point of contact to confirm their role in the move prior to DMV issuing the hauling permit.
24VAC20-81-110. General blanket permit.
General blanket permits allow frequent movements within a specified time period on designated or unrestricted routes in Virginia. General blanket permits are issued on a case-by-case basis and only after appropriate reviews or analysis have been completed to ensure the vehicle configuration will not harm or damage bridges, structures, or other state inventory along the routes of travel.
General blanket permits are vehicle specific and cannot be transferred between vehicles. Since the permits are vehicle specific, the original permit or a legible copy of the entire permit is required to be carried in the transport vehicle. This permit shall be presented to Department of Motor Vehicles, law enforcement or Department of Transportation officials when requested.
All general blanket permits are issued through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicle's headquarters office and all requests shall be made at least 10 workdays prior to the anticipated movement date.
Applicants who make multiple moves should strongly consider obtaining a general blanket. Generally, the larger the vehicle configuration, the more restrictive the regulations will be. General blanket permits should be used for core business needs or those moves that are the most frequent. For those rare or infrequent moves outside of core business transactions, routine single trip permits should be considered.
Maximum Size and Weight Limitations for the General Blanket Permit |
Height: | 14 feet |
Width: | 14 feet |
Length: | 85 feet (including front or rear overhang) |
Rear Overhang: | 10 feet |
Front Overhang: | 3 feet |
Single Axle: | 24,000 pounds |
Tandem Axle: | 44,000 pounds |
Tri-Axle: | Maximum weight based on axle spacings between the centers of the first and last axle in the 3-axle group - see 24VAC20-81-80. |
Quad Axle: | Maximum weight based on axle spacings between the centers of the first and last axle in the 4-axle group - see 24VAC20-81-80. |
Gross Weight: | Maximum weight based on the total number of axles in the configuration and the total amount of spacings between the centers of the first and last axles - see 24VAC20-81-80. |
If the vehicle configuration exceeds any of the weight or width parameters defined for the general blanket permit, the applicant may be eligible to apply for the superload blanket permit or the superload single trip permit.
24VAC20-81-120. Superload blanket permit.
When the vehicle configuration's single axle, tandem axle, tri-axle or width exceed the parameters allowed for the general blanket permit, the applicant may apply for the superload blanket permit. No superload blanket permit shall exceed 14 feet in height, 16 feet in width, 105 feet in length, or 150,000 pounds gross weight. Furthermore, no blanket permit shall have more than three feet of front overhang or 10 feet of rear overhang, which are both included in the length of 105 feet.
The superload blanket permit allows frequent movements within a specified time period statewide or on specific routes. All requests for the superload blanket permit must be submitted to the Hauling Permit Section at least 10 workdays in advance of the anticipated movement date. These permits are vehicle specific and can not be transferred between vehicle configurations. Superload blanket permits are issued on a case-by-case basis and only after the appropriate reviews or VDOT engineering analysis have been completed to ensure that the vehicle configuration will not harm or damage bridges, structures, or other state inventory on the routes of travel. Results of the reviews or engineering analysis may render the vehicle configuration ineligible to move under the authority of a superload blanket permit.
24VAC20-81-130. Exempted permits; eligibility requirements.
Listed below are some of the most frequently requested exempt permits. Most exempt permits are reducible but have been granted statutory authority to operate on the state highway system. These permits are vehicle specific and cannot be transferred between vehicle configurations. The applicant must adhere to specific statutory criteria in order to qualify for these permits. For additional information concerning these permits contact the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at (804) 497-7135 or refer to the hauling permit website online at www.dmvnow.com or www.dmv.virginia.gov.
1. When transporting containerized cargo in a sealed seagoing container bound to or from a seaport, and the seagoing container has been or will be transported by marine shipment, the applicant is eligible to receive an exempt permit. The contents of the seagoing container shall not be changed from the time it is loaded by the consignor or his agents to the time it is delivered to the consignee or his agents.
2. Three- or four-axle vehicles with an axle spacing of at least 22 feet that are used exclusively for the mixing of concrete in transit or at a project site or for transporting necessary components in a compartmentalized vehicle to produce concrete immediately upon arrival at a project site are eligible to receive an exempt permit. This permit does not authorize travel on the federal interstate highway system.
3. Three-, four- , five- , and six-axle vehicles are eligible to obtain a permit to haul coal from a mine or other place of production to a preparation plant, loading dock, or railroad. Hauling of coal is restricted to 85 miles from the origin to the destination and travel is not authorized on the federal interstate highway system.
Vehicles hauling gravel, sand, or crushed stone, and vehicles hauling liquids produced from gas or oil wells or water used for drilling and completion of a gas or oil well do not require a permit. Travel is restricted to no more than 50 miles from the origin to the destination. All movements are valid only within the counties that impose a tax on coal or gases extracted from the earth and no travel is allowed on the federal interstate highway system.
4. Three- or four-axle vehicles with an axle spacing of at least 22 feet hauling excavated materials from construction-related land clearing operations are eligible to receive an exempt permit. This permit does not authorize travel on the federal interstate highway system.
5. When hauling solid waste, other than hazardous waste, the applicant is eligible for an exempt permit. This permit is only limited to two- and three-axle vehicles. This permit does not authorize travel on the federal interstate highway system.
6. Vehicles used to haul farm produce grown in Virginia are eligible to receive an exempt permit. These permits are only valid in Accomack and Northampton counties.
7. Vehicles used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules are eligible to receive an exempt permit. This permit does not authorize travel on the federal interstate highway system.
8. Self-propelled motor vehicles manufactured for the specific purpose of supporting well-drilling machinery on the job site and whose movement on any highway is incidental to the purpose for which it was designed and manufactured for is eligible to receive an exempt permit. This permit does not authorize travel on the federal interstate highway system.
9. Vehicles or equipment that is registered in the name of the United States government, state or local agencies shall receive without cost, an overdimensional or overweight permit to move overdimensional or overweight items. Contractors moving items on behalf of the United States government, state or local agencies are not eligible to receive this permit at no cost.
10. A straight truck designed or used to carry fuel and having a capacity of less than 6,000 gallons is eligible for an exempt permit. The tank wagon is limited to two axles and shall not exceed a gross weight of 36,000 pounds, nor can it exceed 24,000 pounds on a single axle. This permit does not authorized travel on the federal interstate highway system.
11. For purposes of this section, "underground pipe cleaning equipment" means a self-propelled motor vehicle manufactured for the specific purpose of vacuuming and cleaning underground sanitary and storm pipe. "Hydroexcavating equipment" means a self-propelled motor vehicle manufactured for the specific purpose of digging with water and vacuuming of debris. "Water blasting equipment" means a self-propelled motor vehicle manufactured for the specific purpose of waterblasting flat concrete surfaces and vacuuming spent water for reuse. The above vehicles are eligible to receive an exempt permit. This permit does not authorized travel on the federal interstate highway system.
Part IV
Fees
24VAC20-81-140. Hauling permit administrative fees and other fees required by law; escort driver certification fees.
Hauling Permits: | |
Single Trip Hauling Permit | $20 |
Superload Single Trip Permit | $30 |
General Blanket Permit – 1 year | $100 |
General Blanket Permit – 2 years | $200 |
Superload Blanket Permit – 1 year or less | $100 |
Tank Wagon Permit (1 year) | $845 |
Exempt Blanket Permits | $100 |
In addition to the administrative fees listed above, Virginia law requires that all hauling permits be assessed an additional mileage fee if the vehicle configuration is overweight or if the equipment used is unlicensable in Virginia. Additional fees required by Virginia law may be applicable and will be collected as required. Refer to the hauling permit website at www.dmvnow.com for questions concerning fees.
Escort Driver Certification: | |
Original Certification | $25 |
Renewal | $25 |
Reissue | $15 |
Duplicate | $15 |
Part V
Travel Guidelines
24VAC20-81-150. Travel restrictions; holiday travel; days and times of travel; speed limits.
A. Permitted vehicle configurations are allowed to travel on all holidays except the following state observed holidays: (i) New Year's Day, (ii) Memorial Day, (iii) Independence Day, (iv) Labor Day, (v) Thanksgiving Day, and (vi) Christmas Day.
On the holidays mentioned above, permits will not be valid from noon the preceding weekday through the holiday. If the observed holiday falls on a Monday the permit will not be valid from noon on the preceding Friday through Monday.
B. Normal times of travel for permitted loads are 30 minutes after sunrise to 30 minutes before sunset, Monday through Saturday. Vehicle configurations that are 16 feet wide or greater may be required to travel during the hours of darkness (9:30 p.m. to 5 a.m.). No permitted travel is allowed within the corporate limits of cities/towns between the hours of 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. except for configurations that are overweight or overlength (not exceeding 85 feet, including rear overhang) only. No travel is allowed on Sundays, except for loads that are permitted for overweight or overlength (not exceeding 85 feet, including rear overhang) only. The Hauling Permit Section shall have the authority to route vehicles outside the normal hours of travel or restrict times of travel during normal hours of travel if it is determined necessary giving primary consideration to the safety and well-being of the traveling public.
When road conditions, visibility or unfavorable weather conditions make traveling hazardous to the operator or to the traveling public, permitted vehicles are not authorized to operate unless responding to an emergency. Vehicles that are underway when inclement weather occurs shall exit the road at the first available safe location and park in a safe place until the weather clears or until road conditions improve to allow safe travel conditions. Law-enforcement judgment shall prevail in all circumstances.
C. Unless otherwise specified within the permit, the maximum speed limit for permitted vehicle configurations is the posted speed limit not to exceed 55 miles per hour.
Part VI
Escort Vehicles and Equipment Requirements; Escort Vehicle Driver Certification; and General Escorting Guidelines
24VAC20-81-160. Escort vehicles and equipment requirements.
A. Depending on the routes of travel, escorts may be required for vehicle configurations exceeding 10 feet in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, 85 feet in length, when more than 15 feet or more of front or rear overhang exist, or when determined as necessary by the issuing agent giving primary consideration to the safety of the traveling public, the attributes of the configuration, and the geographical location of the move.
B. The escort vehicle shall be a truck not less than one-quarter ton-rated load capacity but not more than 17,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or a passenger vehicle of not less than 2,000 pounds gross weight. Escort vehicles shall not resemble nor be confused with law-enforcement or safety-assistance vehicles. Escort vehicles shall be in compliance with all state and local registration processes required by the state in which the vehicle is registered. Escort vehicles shall not be overdimensional or overweight while in use performing escorting duties. They are not permitted to pull a trailer of any kind while performing escorting duties.
C. All escort vehicles shall be equipped with a two-way radio communication system to maintain communications between the permitted vehicle driver and all escort vehicles in the group.
D. Front or lead escort vehicles are required to have a height pole/hot-pole when required by permit. While performing escorting duties the pole shall be extended at least three inches above the specified height of the vehicle configuration being escorted.
E. Escort vehicles headlamps shall be on at all times while escorting overdimensional/overweight movements.
F. All escort vehicles shall have at least one, rotating or strobe, positioned on top of the escort vehicle. The light must be visible for a distance of at least 500 feet in all directions by approaching vehicles.
G. Paddles shall be at least 24 inches by 24 inches with six-inch high lettering. For greater visibility, a high-intensity flashing stop/slow paddle may be used.
H. All flags used for flagging purposes shall be red or any highly fluorescent color, not less than 18 inches square and in good condition. Flags shall be placed at the extremities of a vehicle load to identify overwidth or secured at the end of the load to identify overhang.
I. Individuals performing flagging activities shall wear a hard hat and a red or any highly visible fluorescent colored jacket or vest.
J. Escort vehicles shall have signs, descriptive of the load it is escorting, i.e., "Wide Load" or "Oversize Load" or "Overweight Load." At a minimum, the signs shall be displayed in black eight-inch high letters with 1-1/2 inch brush strokes on a yellow banner. The banner shall be mounted on the front and rear bumper of the escort vehicle. If displayed on the roof of the escort vehicle other drivers must be able to read the signs when approaching or following the escort vehicle.
K. A minimum of one Underwriters Laboratories (U.L.) or Factory Mutual Laboratories (F.M.) approved, five pounds or greater, Type "BC" or "ABC" fire extinguisher shall be carried in the escort vehicle or escort vehicles.
L. Reflective triangles or road flares shall be used to warn oncoming or approaching vehicles of a breakdown.
24VAC20-81-170. Escort vehicle driver certification.
Certification as an escort vehicle driver is mandatory when escorting oversize loads exceeding 12 feet in width, 85 feet in length, or 14 feet in height. Certification is also required when escorting a load with 15 feet or more of rear overhang or 10 feet or more of front overhang, or whenever an off-centered load exceeds five feet. The overhang of an off-centered load must be loaded to the passenger side of the transport vehicle.
Virginia residents who possess a valid Virginia driver's license shall obtain their certification through Virginia's Escort Vehicle Driver Certification Program. Non-Virginia residents may be certified through Virginia's Escort Vehicle Driver Certification Program or through a certification program from another state. Regardless of what state certifies the driver as an escort driver, certification is considered invalid if the driver's license is not valid.
The Virginia Escort Vehicle Driver Certification test is available at all Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Customer Service Center locations. The applicant is required to successfully pass a multiple-choice exam before a certificate can be issued.
Successful applicants shall carry the certification document with them while escorting vehicle configurations that require certified escort vehicle drivers. Certification, along with a driver's license, must be presented when requested by any Department of Motor Vehicles, law enforcement or Department of Transportation officials when requested. Failure to have the certification in possession while escorting a permitted load that requires a certified escort will cause the movement to be delayed until proper escorts and credentials are in place.
Additional information concerning Escort Vehicle Driver Certification in Virginia can be requested by calling the Hauling Permit Section at (804) 497-7135.
24VAC20-81-180. General escorting guidelines.
Escort vehicle drivers or certified escort vehicle drivers may be required depending on the routes of travel and the overall dimensions of the vehicle configuration. Escorts will not be picked up or dropped as the permitted configuration travels through the Commonwealth. Escorts, when required by permit will stay with the vehicle configuration throughout the duration of the move. General guidelines as to when escorts are required follows; this listing is not all inclusive:
1. One front escort is required on all roads if the permitted load exceeds 10 feet in width or 75 feet in overall length.
2. One certified front escort is required on all roads if the permitted load exceeds 12 feet in width or 85 feet in length.
3. One front and two rear escorts, all certified, will be required on all roads if the permitted load exceeds 14 feet in width.
4. One front escort is required on all roads when the front overhang exceeds four feet.
5. One certified front escort is required on all roads when the front overhang is 10 feet or more.
6. One rear escort will be required on all roads when the rear overhang is 10 feet or more.
7. One certified rear escort is required on all roads when the rear overhang is 15 feet or more.
8. One certified front escort equipped with height pole is required on all roads when the permitted load exceeds 14 feet in height.
9. One front escort is required on all roads when the off-centered load exceeds three feet on the passenger side of the vehicle configuration.
10. Two certified front escorts will be required when the off-centered load exceeds five feet on the passenger side of the vehicle configuration.
11. One front and one rear escort, both certified, is required on all roads when the permitted load exceeds 100 feet in overall length.
12. Two front and two rear escorts, all certified, will be required on all roads when the permitted load exceeds 18 feet in width or 200 feet in length.
Part VII
Emergency and National Defense Moves
24VAC20-81-190. Emergency moves.
Requests for emergency moves will be carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis. An emergency is defined as "a calamity, existing or imminent, caused by fire, flood, riot, windstorm, explosion or act of God, which requires immediate remedial action to protect life or property." In some instances waivers are issued by the appropriate state authority exempting overweight/overwidth carriers from statutory size and weight limitations who are responding to and supporting relief efforts. Maximum size and weight limitations will be identified in the waiver and all requests that exceed those limitations will have to apply for a hauling permit in accordance with established processes that govern the permitting process.
Emergency move requests and questions concerning waivers issued in support of a declared relief effort or disaster shall be made through the Virginia Department of Transportation's Emergency Operations Center (TEOC) at 1-800-367-7623. TEOC is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During normal business hours, contact the Hauling Permit Section at (804) 497-7135.
Blanket permit users may request "emergency travel regulations" when ordering permits if there is a possibility that the equipment or commodity permitted will be required in support of an emergency as defined above. Having emergency travel regulations in the permit may allow response to the emergency using the blanket permit, if that permit covers the routes of travel intended to use. However, the permittee must contact the Virginia Department of Transportation's Emergency Operations Center and give them vital travel information that will be passed on to the Virginia State Police, all applicable law-enforcement jurisdictions, and DMV weigh stations.
24VAC20-81-200. National defense moves.
The U.S. Department of Defense's Military Traffic Command shall be the sole certifying agency during peacetime for all movements made by an agency declared essential to the national defense. During a national emergency, movements essential to national defense would be far greater in scope, and those not under direct control of one of the military departments or Department of Defense agencies would be certified by the appropriate emergency transportation authority.
Part VIII
Responsibilities
24VAC20-81-210. Compliance with state laws and permit requirements.
A. The acceptance and use of the Virginia hauling permit by the applicant or his designee is his agreement that he will proof the permit for accuracy prior to traveling on Virginia's highways. If the document is incorrect, the permittee will immediately contact the Hauling Permit Section to obtain the proper permit prior to traveling over Virginia's highways. The permittee accepts full responsibility and the consequences associated with having a hauling permit containing erroneous or incorrect information.
B. The acceptance and use of the Virginia hauling permit by the applicant is his agreement that he has met all legal requirements concerning operational authority imposed by motor vehicle laws of Virginia, the Department of Motor Vehicles, or the Interstate Commerce Commission.
C. The acceptance and use of the Virginia hauling permit by the applicant is his agreement that each vehicle permitted is insured no less than that required by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
D. The acceptance and use of the Virginia hauling permit by the applicant is his agreement to pay for all damages and cost involved to persons or property as a result of the permitted movement.
E. The acceptance and use of the Virginia hauling permit by the applicant is his agreement that he will comply with all the terms and conditions as specified within the permit.
F. The permittee, an agent of the permittee, or any member of the permitee's company, shall within 15 workdays notify the Hauling Permit Section, if the permitted vehicle is involved in any accident. Failure to notify the Hauling Permit Section of involvement in an accident may result in suspension or denial of permitting privileges as specified in 24VAC20-81-230.
24VAC20-81-220. Injury or damage.
The permittee assumes all responsibility for an injury to persons or damage to public or private property caused directly or indirectly by the transportation of vehicles and loads moving under the authority of a state-issued permit. Furthermore, the permittee agrees to hold the Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Motor Vehicles and its employees and other state agencies and their employees harmless from all suits, claims, damages or proceedings of any kind, as a direct or indirect result of the transportation of the permitted vehicle.
Part IX
Denial; Revocation; Refusal to Renew; Appeal; Invalidation
24VAC20-81-230. Denial; revocation; refusal to renew; appeal; invalidation.
A. An overweight or oversize permit may be revoked by the Department of Motor Vehicles upon written findings that the permittee violated the terms of the permit, which shall incorporate by reference these rules, as well as state and local laws and ordinances regulating the operation of overweight or oversized vehicles. Repeated violations may result in a permanent denial of the right to use the state highway system or roads for transportation of overweight and oversized vehicle configurations. A permit may also be revoked for misrepresentation of the information on the application, fraudulently obtaining a permit, alteration of a permit, or unauthorized use of a permit.
B. Hauling permits may be denied to any applicant or company, or both, for a period not to exceed one year when the applicant or company or both has been notified in writing by the Department of Motor Vehicles designee that violations existed under a previously issued permit. Customers who are delinquent in payment to other DMV functions will be denied a hauling permit until their delinquent account or accounts are satisfied.
C. No permit application request shall be denied or revoked, or permit application renewal refused, until a written notice of the violation of the issued permit has been furnished to the applicant. The permittee may appeal in writing to the Assistant Commissioner of Motor Carrier Services or his designee within 10 working days of receipt of written notification of denial or revocation setting forth the grounds for making an appeal. Upon receipt of the appeal, the Assistant Commissioner for Motor Carrier Services or his designee will conduct an informal fact-finding process conforming to the requirements of the Code of Virginia and will issue a case decision that will be the final administrative step. Judicial review of such decision shall be available pursuant to § 2.2-4025 of the Administrative Process Act. Upon revocation of the permit, it must be surrendered without consideration for refund or credit of fees. Upon restoration of permit privileges a new hauling permit must be obtained prior to movement on the state highway system.
D. A hauling permit may be invalidated and confiscated by law-enforcement officials or weight-enforcement officials if the permitted vehicle or vehicle combination: is found to be operating off route; has fewer axles than that required within the permit; is moving a commodity other than that specified within the permit; is willfully (intentionally) traveling outside the hours specified within the permit; is traveling without escorts as required by the permit; or if the driver does not have the entire permit in the vehicle. In these situations, in addition to taking legal enforcement actions, law- and weigh-enforcement personnel shall have the authority to direct the vehicle configuration to a safe location, at the permittee's expense, and detain the vehicle configuration until it meets all of the requirements of the permit as stated or until a new hauling permit is issued.
Part X
Transportation of Explosives, Radioactive and Other Hazardous Materials
24VAC20-81-240. Transportation of explosives, radioactive and other hazardous materials.
A. A person, shipper or carrier transporting or proposing to transport explosives or other hazardous materials shall do so in compliance with all provisions of 49 CFR Parts 100 through 180. Hazardous materials are those described by class in 49 CFR Parts 173 through 180.
B. All transporters who transport hazardous waste that originates or terminates in Virginia for the purpose of storage, treatment or disposal shall apply for and receive an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identification number that is unique to the transporter, and apply for a transportation permit from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Division.
Transporters of hazardous waste generated outside of Virginia and designated for delivery to a treatment, storage or disposal facility in another state shall conform with the manifest requirements of those states or EPA, as prescribed in 40 CFR Part 262. Specific questions regarding the movement and permitting of hazardous materials and hazardous waste should be addressed to:
| Department of Environmental Quality 629 East Main Street P.O. Box 10009 Richmond, VA 23240-0009 |
| Phone: | 804-698-4249 (Hazardous Materials) 804-698-4237 (Hazardous Waste) |
Questions regarding the movement of Hazardous Materials through tunnels or bridges, or both, shall be addressed to:
| Department of Transportation Hazardous Materials Officer 1221 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 Phone: 804-371-0891 |
Questions regarding hazardous material spills or incidents shall be addressed to: CHEMTREC 1-800-424-9300 (24 hours a day).
Part XI
Weigh Stations; Location
24VAC20-81-250. Permanent weigh stations.
Operators of trucks which have a registered gross weight in excess of 7,500 pounds are required by law to drive their vehicles onto scales for weight inspection as directed by either a police officer or regulatory highway signs. By Virginia law, a police officer may require the operator of a truck to drive a distance not to exceed 10 road miles to a weigh facility or location for weight inspection. Refusal to drive onto scales for inspection is a misdemeanor. Locations for the weigh stations in Virginia are as follows:
Station | Route | Location |
1. Alberta | 85 | Alberta |
2. Aldie | 50 | Aldie |
3. Bland | 77 | Bland |
4. Carson | 95 | Carson |
5. Dahlgren | 301 | Dahlgren |
6. Dumfries | 95 | Triangle |
7. Hollins | 11 | Hollins |
8. Middletown | 11 | Middletown |
9. New Church | 13 | Temperanceville |
10. Sandston | 64 | Sandston |
11. Stephens City | 81 | Stephens City |
12. Suffolk | 58 | Suffolk |
13. Troutville | 81 | Troutville |
VA.R. Doc. No. R07-271; Filed October 2, 2008, 1:16 p.m.