All oversize loads entering the City of Duluth, located in Gwinnett County, must conform to the requirements set by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). These regulations supersede any specific city ordinances.

In general, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or falling within the Superload weight class (over 150,000 lbs gross weight) should obtain an oversize load permit. GDOT defines these classifications and associated requirements.

Specifically, loads traversing Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, a major thoroughfare in Duluth, require careful planning due to bridge weight restrictions and heavy traffic volume, especially during peak hours. Check GDOT's website for current restrictions and updates related to construction or maintenance.

Escort vehicle requirements in Duluth are dictated by GDOT regulations. Loads exceeding 12 feet in width or 14 feet 6 inches in height generally require one escort. Loads exceeding 14 feet in width or 16 feet in height, or traveling at night, may require two escorts.

Local police escorts may be required for extremely large or heavy loads, particularly those impacting multiple lanes of traffic or requiring temporary road closures. Contact the Gwinnett County Police Department's Traffic Division for scheduling and fee information. Expect a minimum of 72 hours advance notice for police escorts.

Applications for oversize/overweight permits in Duluth are submitted directly to the Georgia Department of Transportation. Applications can be submitted online through the GDOT's Motor Carrier Compliance Division (MCCD) website. The website also provides access to forms and regulations.

Required documentation includes vehicle registration, proof of insurance, load dimensions and weight, a detailed route plan (including entry and exit points within Duluth), and any relevant engineering certifications for particularly heavy or complex loads. GDOT may require route surveys for certain movements.

GDOT generally prohibits oversize/overweight movements during peak traffic hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on weekdays, particularly on major routes like I-85 and Peachtree Industrial Boulevard within Duluth.

Seasonal restrictions may apply during holidays or special events within Duluth, such as the Duluth Fall Festival. Check with GDOT and the City of Duluth event calendar for specific dates and restrictions.

Certain residential neighborhoods and areas around schools in Duluth may have restricted routes or weight limits. It's essential to carefully review the proposed route with GDOT and the City of Duluth Planning Department to avoid any violations.

GDOT permit fees are based on factors such as weight, distance traveled, and the number of axles. Base permit fees typically start around $25 but can increase significantly for heavier or longer loads.

Additional fees may apply for permits requiring special routing, engineering analysis, or police escorts. Fees also vary based on the duration of the permit (single trip vs. annual). Contact GDOT's Motor Carrier Compliance Division (MCCD) for a specific fee quote based on your load details.