All oversize loads entering Atlantic City, which is located in Atlantic County, must conform to the requirements set by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT).

In general, any vehicle over 8 feet 6 inches (102 inches) in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, and exceeding 80,000 lbs GVWR should obtain an oversize load permit from the NJDOT and potentially the Atlantic City Public Works Department, depending on the route.

Due to the unique geography of Atlantic City, which is primarily an island, specific attention must be paid to bridge weight restrictions, particularly when crossing the Albany Avenue Bridge, the Brigantine Connector, and other causeways. Check posted weight limits carefully.

Escort vehicles are typically required in Atlantic City when the load exceeds 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length. The specific number of escorts (one or two) will depend on the dimensions of the load and the route.

Local police escorts are generally required for loads exceeding 14 feet in width or those requiring lane closures on major roadways like the Atlantic City Expressway spur (Route 445). Contact the Atlantic City Police Department Traffic Division at (609) 347-5766 for scheduling and fee information. Expect to pay around $75-$150 per hour per officer, with a minimum of 4 hours typically required.

Permits for oversize/overweight loads in New Jersey are primarily obtained through the NJDOT permitting system. Visit the NJDOT website (state.nj.us/transportation) and navigate to the 'Permits' section. For routes involving significant travel within Atlantic City, contact the Atlantic City Public Works Department at (609) 347-5316 to inquire about additional local requirements.

Required documentation includes vehicle registration, insurance information, detailed load dimensions and weight, a proposed route map highlighting bridge clearances, and a certificate of insurance.

Time-of-day restrictions are in effect during peak tourist season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and during special events like the Miss America pageant. Oversize loads are typically restricted from traveling on major roadways between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on weekdays.

Seasonal weight restrictions may be imposed on certain bridges during the winter months to prevent damage from de-icing chemicals and freeze-thaw cycles. Check with the NJDOT and Atlantic City Public Works for specific restrictions.

Routes through residential neighborhoods, particularly those near the boardwalk and casinos, are generally discouraged. Heavily congested areas like Pacific Avenue should be avoided whenever possible. The NJDOT and Atlantic City Public Works will specify preferred routes on the permit.

Permit fees for oversize/overweight loads in New Jersey vary based on weight, distance, and the number of axles. The base fee for a standard oversize load permit is generally around $15-$30, but can increase significantly for heavier or longer loads.

Fees are also affected by the number of state and local jurisdictions the load will be traveling through. Police escorts, when required, will incur separate hourly fees.