All oversize loads entering the City of Gary, McDowell County, must conform to the requirements set by the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) and local Gary ordinances.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 80,000 pounds should obtain an oversize/overweight load permit from the WVDOT and potentially coordinate with the Gary Public Works Department for local route approval.

Due to the mountainous terrain surrounding Gary and the presence of older infrastructure, particularly on County Route 16, loads exceeding these dimensions may require additional scrutiny and route surveys. Be especially mindful of bridge weight limits on lesser-traveled roads within city limits.

Escort vehicle requirements in Gary are dictated by WVDOT regulations. Generally, loads exceeding 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length require one escort vehicle. Loads exceeding 14 feet in width or 110 feet in length may require two escort vehicles.

Local police escorts are typically not required within Gary, but may be requested by the WVDOT for particularly complex or high-risk moves. If a police escort is deemed necessary, contact the McDowell County Sheriff's Department at (304) 436-3300 to arrange scheduling and discuss associated fees, which can range from $50 to $100 per hour, with a minimum of four hours.

Oversize/overweight permits for West Virginia, including Gary, are primarily obtained through the WVDOT’s online permitting system. Visit transportation.wv.gov for access to the system and detailed instructions.

In addition to the standard WVDOT application, be prepared to provide detailed route information, including specific street names and bridge identifiers within Gary. The Gary Public Works Department (if contacted) may request a route survey for exceptionally large or heavy loads to assess potential impacts on local infrastructure. Their contact number is not publicly available, but the McDowell County Courthouse may be able to provide the most recent contact information.

Time-of-day restrictions in Gary are generally aligned with WVDOT regulations. Heavy hauls are typically restricted during peak traffic hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on weekdays, particularly on US-52, which serves as the main thoroughfare through the city.

Seasonal restrictions may apply during winter months due to snow and ice conditions. The WVDOT may impose temporary weight restrictions on certain roads during periods of thaw to prevent damage to pavement.

Avoid residential areas and narrow streets within Gary’s historic district. Route planning should prioritize US-52 and well-maintained county roads to minimize disruption and potential damage to local infrastructure. Pay close attention to posted weight limits on bridges along the Tug Fork River.

Permit fees for oversize/overweight loads in West Virginia are determined by the WVDOT and vary based on load dimensions, weight, and distance traveled. Base fees typically start around $25, but can increase significantly for larger or heavier loads.

Additional fees may be assessed for loads requiring escorts, route surveys, or special handling. Consult the WVDOT's fee schedule for a detailed breakdown of all applicable charges. Note that fees may be higher for overweight permits exceeding statutory weight limits.