All oversize loads entering the City of Harris, located in Chisago County, must conform to the requirements set by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the City of Harris Public Works Department.

In general, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or operating within the Class V weight classification (over 80,000 lbs) should obtain an oversize load permit from the Harris Public Works Department.

Specifically, loads traversing Main Street (County Road 8) within Harris are subject to additional scrutiny due to the age of several bridge structures. Detailed bridge clearance information is available on the Chisago County website.

Escort vehicles are required in Harris when the load exceeds 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or extends more than 10 feet beyond the front or rear of the transporting vehicle. Front and rear escorts may be required depending on the specific route and dimensions.

Local police escorts are typically not required within Harris unless the load presents an exceptional hazard or exceeds 14 feet in width. If a police escort is deemed necessary by the Harris Public Works Department, a fee of $75 per hour will apply, with a four-hour minimum. Scheduling must be coordinated at least 72 hours in advance through the Chisago County Sheriff's Office.

To apply for an oversize load permit in Harris, contact the Chisago County Public Works Department. Applications can be downloaded from the Chisago County website (www.chisagocounty.us/publicworks) or obtained in person at the County Government Center located in Center City. You can also reach the permitting office directly at (651) 213-8700.

Documentation requirements include a detailed description of the load, vehicle specifications, proposed route, and a certificate of insurance. For loads exceeding 16 feet in height, a route survey may be required.

Time-of-day restrictions are in effect within Harris during peak traffic hours. Oversize loads are prohibited from traveling on Main Street (County Road 8) between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and again between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Seasonal weight restrictions are imposed on certain roads within Harris during the spring thaw (typically March and April). These restrictions are posted on the Chisago County website and are strictly enforced to prevent damage to road surfaces.

Loads are prohibited from using residential streets unless absolutely necessary for delivery. Any deviation from the approved route must be pre-approved by the Harris Public Works Department.

The base permit fee for oversize loads in Harris is $50. This fee covers standard processing and route evaluation. Additional charges may apply for loads requiring special considerations or exceeding certain dimensions.

Fees vary based on the load's width, height, and weight, as well as the distance traveled within the city limits. Loads exceeding 14 feet in width are subject to an additional fee of $25 per mile.