All oversize loads entering the City of Kennesaw, Cobb County, must conform to the requirements set by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), as well as any supplemental local ordinances.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or exceeding 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight should obtain an oversize/overweight load permit from the GDOT. Within Kennesaw, loads exceeding these limits also require notification to the Kennesaw Public Works Department.

Specifically, be aware that certain bridges and overpasses within Kennesaw city limits have posted weight restrictions. Pay close attention to signage, especially along Cobb Parkway (US 41) and potentially on smaller connector roads like Jiles Road. Contact the Kennesaw Public Works Department for verification of route suitability for exceptionally heavy loads.

Escort vehicle requirements within Kennesaw mirror those stipulated by the Georgia Department of Transportation. Generally, one escort vehicle is required for loads exceeding 12 feet in width or 14 feet 6 inches in height. Loads exceeding 14 feet in width or 16 feet in height will likely require two escort vehicles.

While Kennesaw does not mandate police escorts for most oversize loads, they may be required at the discretion of the Kennesaw Police Department for exceptionally wide or heavy loads, or for routes that present significant safety concerns. Any request for police escort must be made at least 72 hours in advance, and fees will be determined based on the duration and complexity of the escort. Contact the Kennesaw Police Department Traffic Unit directly to inquire about police escort availability and fees.

While the initial permit application must be submitted to the Georgia Department of Transportation through their online permitting system, you should also notify the Kennesaw Public Works Department at (770) 424-8274 once the GDOT permit is approved. This allows the City to review the proposed route and identify any potential conflicts or restrictions.

In addition to the standard documentation required by GDOT (vehicle information, load dimensions, route details, etc.), be prepared to provide a detailed site plan showing the origin and destination of the load within Kennesaw city limits. This helps the City assess the impact on local infrastructure and traffic flow.

Kennesaw generally adheres to GDOT's time-of-day restrictions, which prohibit oversize load movement during peak traffic hours (typically 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM on weekdays). Check with the GDOT permit for specific restrictions on your route and timeframe.

While Kennesaw doesn't have specific seasonal restrictions beyond GDOT's guidelines, be aware that traffic volume increases significantly during local events such as the Big Shanty Festival in April and the Salute to America celebration on July 4th. Plan your transport outside of these peak event times.

Avoid residential areas and school zones whenever possible. Routes through downtown Kennesaw may be restricted during certain hours. Consult with the Kennesaw Public Works Department for recommended routes that minimize disruption to local traffic and residents.

The Georgia Department of Transportation determines the base permit fees for oversize/overweight loads. Kennesaw itself does not typically charge additional permit fees, but may assess fees for police escorts if deemed necessary.

Police escort fees, if required, are determined by the Kennesaw Police Department based on the number of officers involved, the duration of the escort, and the complexity of the route. These fees can range from $75 to $150 per hour per officer.