All oversize loads entering Hanford, California, which is in the heart of Kings County, must adhere to the regulations outlined by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the Hanford Public Works Department.

In general, any vehicle exceeding 12 feet in width, 14 feet in height, or weighing over 80,000 pounds (within the Superload category) is mandated to secure a permit from the Hanford Public Works Department.

Hanford, situated in the San Joaquin Valley, has unique requirements due to its agricultural and transportation infrastructure. Loads must be properly secured and follow designated paths to minimize damage to local infrastructure.

In accordance with California Vehicle Code, escort requirements in Hanford are triggered for loads wider than 8 feet 6 inches on highways or when exceeding 10 feet 6 inches overall width on any public road. Escort services must be performed by certified personnel.

For oversized loads, especially those over 14 feet wide or 17 feet high, a Hanford Police escort may be necessary. Coordination with the Police Department in Hanford is essential, and applicable costs will be billed according to the Hanford Police Department's fee schedule.

To obtain a permit in Hanford, applicants can either visit the Hanford Public Works website or contact their Permits Division at (559) 585-2580. Detailed descriptions of the load dimensions, weight, and proposed route are necessary for processing.

Applicants are advised to be prepared to submit detailed route surveys and load specifics, including origin, destination, and any points of interest along the way, to facilitate the review and approval of their permit application.

Time-of-day restrictions apply to oversize vehicles, avoiding peak traffic times (7-9 am and 4-6 pm, Monday-Friday) to ensure the free flow of traffic and safety.

Seasonal restrictions, particularly during harvest periods, can impact routing. Loads may be rerouted to avoid major events or during specific agricultural activities that could affect the designated paths.

The fee structure in Hanford for oversize permits includes a standard charge plus additional costs for complex routing, police escorts, or specialized handling.

The base permit fee is $50. Complex or oversized shipments may be charged extra based on factors such as route deviation, weight, and required escorts.