Oversize and Heavy Haul Transport Regulations: What You Need to Know
Important Note: We are not a permit service and we do not arrange permits for carriers. All information provided below is for information purposes only. Always read permits and provisions carefully as we cannot guarantee the accuracy of information provided below.
When it comes to heavy haul transport, understanding oversize permits, weight limits, and escort requirements is critical for smooth logistics management. Here’s a breakdown of the key regulations to ensure compliance and safe transport.
Permit Requirements
- Single-trip permits valid for three days
- Must be secured before entering the province
- Permit requirements vary based on size and weight
Operating Time Restrictions
- Standard: Daytime travel (sunrise to sunset)
- Night, weekend, and holiday travel allowed with an escort for:
- Loads up to 10′ wide, 98′5″ long, and 14′ high
- Loads up to 12′ wide on multi-lane highways
- Restricted Travel:
- Loads up to 16′ wide, 98′5″ long, 14′9″ high: No travel after 3:00 PM Friday or noon weekends
- GVW over 137,787 lbs: No night travel
Equipment & Vehicle Dimensions
- Tractor Wheelbase:
- Max 283″ (center steer to drive axles)
- Total tractor-trailer length must not exceed 75′
- Lift Axles: Special permit required
- Spread Axles: Treated as tandems (no penalties for 6′+ spacing)
Legal Dimensions for Heavy Haul Trucks
- Length:
- 53′ semi-trailer
- 75′5″ overall
- Overhang: 3′ front / 6′ rear
- Width: 8′6″
- Height: 13′7″
- Weight Limits:
- Single axle: 20,020 lbs
- Tandem axle: 39,682 lbs
- Tridem axle: Varies by spacing
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: Up to 100′
- Width: Up to 16′4″
- Height: Up to 16′
- Weight: Max 140,800 lbs (six or more axles)
Special Notices
- Over 16′ high: Notify utilities at least 3 days in advance
- Over 16′ wide or 93′ long: Police must be alerted 1 week in advance
Escort Requirements
- Length-Based:
- Over 90′ (2-lane): 1 escort
- Over 98′5″ (multi-lane): 4 escorts
- Rear overhang over 10′: 1 escort
- Width-Based:
- Over 12′: 1 escort
- Over 16′: 2 escorts
- Height: Varies by route (no universal rule)
Signs, Flags & Lighting
- Flags:
- Bright red/orange flags at extremities
- Signage:
- Over 10′ wide: “D” warning signs front/rear
- Over 6.5′ rear or 3′ front overhang: Additional signage required
- Lighting:
- Amber revolving/strobe light on cab roof (360° visibility)
- Flashing amber lights for loads:
- Over 12′ wide
- Over 90′ long
- Over 3′ front overhang