All oversize loads entering the City of New Hampton, located in Chickasaw County, must conform to the requirements set by the Iowa Department of Transportation.

In general, any vehicle over 12 feet in width, 14 feet in height, and within the Class 3 weight category (over 80,000 lbs but not exceeding 90,000 lbs for divisible loads with a permit, and over 120,000 lbs for non-divisible loads) should obtain an oversize load permit from the New Hampton Public Works Department.

The New Hampton City Council has designated specific routes for oversize loads to minimize disruptions to local traffic and infrastructure. Loads must adhere to these routes to avoid fines and penalties.

Escort vehicles are required in New Hampton for loads exceeding 16 feet in width, 18 feet in height, or 150 feet in length. Escort vehicles must be equipped with appropriate warning lights and signage as per Iowa Department of Transportation regulations.

For loads that require a police escort, arrangements must be made with the Chickasaw County Sheriff's Office at least 48 hours in advance. Fees for police escorts are $100 per hour, with a minimum of 2 hours.

To apply for an oversize load permit in New Hampton, companies can visit the Iowa Department of Transportation's online permit portal or contact the New Hampton Public Works Department directly at (641) 394-2111. Required documentation includes proof of insurance, detailed load specifications, and proposed route information.

Applicants must also provide a detailed route survey for loads that exceed 18 feet in width or 120 feet in length, or for any load that requires a police escort.

Oversize loads are restricted from traveling through New Hampton during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm, Monday through Friday) unless special permission is granted by the New Hampton Public Works Department.

Seasonal restrictions apply during the spring thaw (typically March 15 to May 1), where load weights are limited on certain roads to prevent damage.

Loads are prohibited from using residential streets unless absolutely necessary, and only with prior approval from the City.

The base permit fee for oversize loads in New Hampton is $50. Additional fees apply based on the size and weight of the load: $25 for each additional foot over 12 feet in width, $10 for each additional foot over 14 feet in height, and $0.05 per pound over 80,000 pounds.

Route complexity fees range from $100 to $500, depending on the need for detailed route surveys and police escorts.