All oversize loads entering the City of Knoxville, located in Knox County, must conform to the requirements set by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

In general, any vehicle over 12 feet in width, 14 feet in height, and within the Class 7 weight category (over 80,000 lbs) should obtain an oversize load permit from the Knoxville Public Works Department, in coordination with the Knox County Highway Department.

Additional permits may be required for travel on state highways, which are managed by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) District 4 office.

Escort vehicles are required for oversize loads exceeding 14 feet in width or 15 feet in height on highways within Knoxville city limits. Escort vehicles must be equipped with proper signage and lighting as per Illinois state regulations.

For loads exceeding 16 feet in width or traveling on designated 'oversize load' routes through residential areas, police escorts may be required. Arrangements for police escorts must be made through the Knox County Sheriff's Department at least 48 hours in advance, with associated fees ranging from $100 to $250 depending on the complexity of the escort.

Applications for oversize load permits in Knoxville can be submitted online through the Illinois Department of Transportation's permit portal or by contacting the Knoxville Public Works Department directly at (309) 344-3261.

Applicants must provide detailed route information, including entry and exit points from the city, and documentation of the load's dimensions and weight.

Oversize loads are restricted from traveling on local roads during peak traffic hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm, Monday through Friday) unless otherwise specified by the permit.

Seasonal restrictions may apply during periods of heavy rainfall or snow, which may render certain routes impassable. It is the responsibility of the permit holder to check current road conditions before embarking.

Certain residential streets and historic districts within Knoxville are restricted to oversize loads. Permits will specify approved routes to avoid these areas.

The base permit fee for oversize loads in Knoxville is $75. Additional fees are applied based on the size and weight of the load, as well as the complexity of the route.

For example, loads exceeding 80,000 lbs may incur an additional $100 fee, while loads requiring a police escort will be charged the actual cost of the escort service.