All oversize loads entering the City of Butte-Silver Bow must conform to the requirements set by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT).

In general, any vehicle over 8 feet 6 inches in width, 14 feet in height, and exceeding 80,000 pounds should obtain an oversize load permit from the Butte-Silver Bow Public Works Department.

Due to the historic nature of many roads in Butte, particularly in the Uptown Historic District, routes must be carefully planned to avoid low-clearance bridges and narrow roadways. Specific approval from the Historic Preservation Office may be required for routes impacting historically significant areas.

Escort vehicles are required in Butte-Silver Bow when the load exceeds 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length. A single escort is generally required for widths between 12 and 14 feet, while loads exceeding 14 feet in width may require two escorts.

Local police escorts are required for loads exceeding 16 feet in width or 150 feet in length. These escorts must be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance through the Butte-Silver Bow Police Department Traffic Division. Fees vary based on the duration and complexity of the escort, generally starting at $75 per hour.

Applications for oversize load permits in Butte-Silver Bow can be submitted online through the MDT's ePermitting system or in person at the Butte-Silver Bow Public Works Department located at 126 W. Granite St., Butte, MT 59701. You can also reach them at (406) 497-6260.

Required documentation includes a detailed description of the load, vehicle dimensions, proposed route, and proof of insurance. For loads impacting utilities (e.g., power lines), coordination with NorthWestern Energy may be necessary, and proof of this coordination may be required with the permit application.

Time-of-day restrictions are in effect within Butte-Silver Bow. Oversize loads are generally prohibited from traveling through the city between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and again between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on weekdays to minimize traffic congestion during peak commute times.

Seasonal weight restrictions may be imposed on certain roads during the spring thaw (typically March-May) to prevent damage to road surfaces. These restrictions are announced by the Butte-Silver Bow Public Works Department and are also available on the MDT website.

Due to the historic nature and narrow streets of Uptown Butte, certain routes are restricted for oversize loads. These areas include but are not limited to Montana Street, Main Street, and Galena Street. Consult with the Public Works Department for approved routes in these areas.

Permit fees for oversize loads in Butte-Silver Bow are based on the size and weight of the load, as well as the distance traveled within the city. The base permit fee is determined by the MDT's fee schedule, with additional fees potentially added by the City for local administration.

Fees can vary significantly. For example, a short-distance move within the industrial area may incur a minimal fee, while a long-distance move through Uptown requiring police escort and utility coordination will be substantially more expensive.