All oversize loads entering the City of Deerfield, located in Lenawee County, must conform to the requirements set by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and any supplemental regulations established by the City of Deerfield.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or operating with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 80,000 lbs within Deerfield should obtain an oversize/overweight load permit from MDOT, with possible additional requirements from the Deerfield Public Works Department.

Be advised that local ordinances in Deerfield prohibit heavy truck traffic on certain residential streets, particularly those immediately surrounding Deerfield Elementary School during school hours (7:30 AM - 4:00 PM on school days). Check posted signage carefully.

In Deerfield, escort vehicles are typically required for loads exceeding 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length. The specific number of escorts (one or two) will be determined by MDOT based on the route and dimensions of the load.

For loads requiring a police escort within Deerfield city limits, arrangements must be made through the Lenawee County Sheriff's Office. Contact them at (517) 263-0524 at least 72 hours in advance to schedule an escort. Fees for police escorts vary but typically start at $75 per hour with a minimum of three hours.

Applications for oversize/overweight permits in Michigan are primarily handled through the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). You can apply online through the MDOT e-Permitting system or by contacting the MDOT Permit Office directly at (517) 322-1241. For any requirements specific to the City of Deerfield, contact the Deerfield Public Works Department at (517) 447-3214.

Besides the standard information required by MDOT (vehicle registration, load dimensions, route details, etc.), be prepared to provide a detailed route map highlighting any planned detours or special considerations within Deerfield. Documentation demonstrating compliance with bridge weight restrictions along the route may also be required.

The City of Deerfield enforces a curfew on heavy truck traffic through the downtown area between the hours of 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. This restriction applies to all vehicles exceeding 10 tons gross weight.

Seasonal weight restrictions are often implemented on local roads during the spring thaw (typically March and April) to prevent damage to the pavement. Contact the Deerfield Public Works Department for specific dates and weight limits.

Avoid using Main Street (M-50) through the center of town during peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) due to heavy local traffic. Consider using US-223 as an alternate route when possible.

Permit fees for oversize/overweight loads in Michigan are determined by MDOT based on the dimensions and weight of the load, as well as the distance traveled. Base fees typically start around $25 for a single-trip permit.

Additional fees may apply for loads requiring special routing, bridge analysis, or police escorts. Contact the MDOT Permit Office for a detailed fee estimate based on your specific load configuration.