All oversize loads entering the City of Au Gres, Arenac County, must conform to the requirements set by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

In general, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 80,000 lbs should obtain an oversize load permit from MDOT and potentially the Au Gres Public Works Department if the load requires specific routing through the city.

Vehicles exceeding these dimensions may require a route survey to ensure clearance under the US-23 overpasses and along local roads like Court Street, especially near the Au Gres-Sims School District. Coordination with local utility companies is also necessary for loads exceeding 15 feet in height to avoid power line interference.

Escort vehicles are typically required in Au Gres when a load exceeds 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length. The number of escorts depends on the specific dimensions and route. Front and rear escorts are often required for loads significantly exceeding these limits.

Local police escorts in Au Gres are typically required for loads exceeding 14 feet in width or those requiring temporary traffic control (e.g., stopping traffic at intersections). Requests for police escorts should be made at least 72 hours in advance through the Arenac County Sheriff's Department. Fees for police escorts vary depending on the duration and complexity of the escort, typically starting at $75 per hour per escort.

Applications for oversize load permits in Au Gres should be submitted to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) through their online permitting system. For local routing considerations within Au Gres, contact the Au Gres Public Works Department at (989) 876-7211 after obtaining the state permit.

Documentation requirements include a detailed description of the load, vehicle dimensions, proposed route, and insurance information. For loads affecting local infrastructure, a structural analysis may be required, particularly for loads exceeding 120,000 lbs.

Time-of-day restrictions in Au Gres are generally in place during peak traffic hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on weekdays, particularly along US-23 and Court Street.

Seasonal weight restrictions are typically enforced during the spring thaw (March-April) on local roads to protect pavement integrity. These restrictions limit axle weights and GVWR to prevent damage to roads weakened by thawing ground.

Restricted routes in Au Gres include residential streets and areas around schools during school hours. Loads should avoid using residential streets unless absolutely necessary and must adhere to posted weight limits on all roads. Special attention should be paid to avoiding the narrow section of Court Street near the Au Gres City Park.

Permit fees for oversize loads in Au Gres are primarily determined by MDOT's fee schedule, which considers load size, weight, and distance traveled. Local fees may apply if the load requires specific routing or traffic control measures coordinated by the Au Gres Public Works Department.

Fees vary significantly based on the load's dimensions and weight. A load exceeding 100,000 lbs will incur higher fees than a standard oversize load. Additional fees may be charged for route surveys or police escorts.