All oversize loads entering the City of Gibson, located in Glascock County, must conform to the requirements set by the Georgia Department of Transportation.

In general, any vehicle over 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, and exceeding 80,000 lbs should obtain an oversize load permit from the Gibson Public Works Department. This ensures safe passage through the city's infrastructure.

Due to the presence of older infrastructure within Gibson's historic downtown area, loads exceeding 100,000 lbs may require a structural analysis of bridges and roadways along the proposed route, performed by a GDOT-approved engineer.

Escort vehicles are required in Gibson for loads exceeding 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 90 feet in length. Vehicles exceeding these dimensions pose a greater risk to public safety and infrastructure.

For loads exceeding 14 feet in width or 100 feet in length, a Gibson Police Department escort is required, in addition to any private escort vehicles. Contact the Gibson Police Department at (706) 598-2821 to schedule an escort at least 72 hours in advance. Fees for police escorts are $75 per hour, with a minimum of 4 hours.

To apply for an oversize load permit in Gibson, you must first obtain the necessary permits from the Georgia Department of Transportation. Once you have the state permits, you can submit a copy to the Gibson Public Works Department, located at 101 Main Street, Gibson, GA 30810. You can also reach them at (706) 598-2241.

In addition to the state permit, documentation requirements specific to Gibson include a detailed route plan highlighting all turns and intersections, a certificate of insurance, and a description of the load being transported. If the load is divisible, justification for why it cannot be broken down into smaller loads is required.

Oversize loads are restricted from traveling through Gibson between the hours of 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays to avoid peak traffic times related to school bus routes and local commuter traffic.

During the annual Gibson Christmas Parade (typically held the first Saturday in December), all oversize load movements are prohibited within the city limits. Check with the Public Works Department for specific parade dates each year.

Due to weight restrictions on the bridge over Brier Creek on Highway 171 just north of Gibson, loads exceeding 40 tons must utilize an alternate route, such as Highway 17. Coordinate with the Public Works Department for approved alternate routes.

The base permit fee for oversize loads in Gibson is $25.00. Additional charges may apply depending on the size and weight of the load, as well as the complexity of the route and any required traffic control measures.

Fees vary based on load size and weight. Loads exceeding 100,000 lbs are subject to an additional fee of $50, and loads exceeding 14 feet in width incur an additional $25 fee due to the increased risk of traffic disruption.