All oversize loads entering the City of Oak Ridge, located in Anderson and Roane Counties, must conform to the requirements set by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and Oak Ridge Public Works Department.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or a gross vehicle weight of 80,000 lbs requires an oversize/overweight permit from both TDOT and potentially, the Oak Ridge Public Works Department, depending on the route.

Due to ongoing infrastructure improvements around Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the Y-12 National Security Complex, specific routes may have additional restrictions. Contact the Oak Ridge Public Works Department for the most up-to-date route information.

Escort vehicles are typically required in Oak Ridge when the load exceeds 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length. These dimensions may necessitate one or two escort vehicles depending on the specific route and potential obstructions.

Local police escorts (Oak Ridge Police Department) may be required for extremely large or heavy loads, especially those traversing the Oak Ridge Turnpike or requiring lane closures. Fees for police escorts vary depending on the duration and complexity of the escort, typically ranging from $75 to $150 per hour. Scheduling is subject to police availability and requires advance notice.

Permits for oversize/overweight loads traveling within Oak Ridge can be obtained through the TDOT online permitting system (TNITS) for state routes. For loads impacting city streets, contact the Oak Ridge Public Works Department at (865) 425-1875. The Public Works Department is located at 140 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN 37830.

Required documentation typically includes a detailed route plan, vehicle specifications, load dimensions and weight, and proof of insurance. For loads impacting city streets, a certificate of insurance naming the City of Oak Ridge as an additional insured may be required. Depending on the route, a traffic management plan might also be necessary.

Time-of-day restrictions may apply to oversize loads traveling through Oak Ridge, particularly during peak commuting hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on major thoroughfares like the Oak Ridge Turnpike and Illinois Avenue.

Seasonal weight restrictions may be implemented during the spring thaw (typically March-April) to protect roadways from damage. Check with the Oak Ridge Public Works Department for current restrictions.

Certain residential neighborhoods and areas around schools may have restricted access for oversize loads. Routes through these areas may require special permits or alternative routing.

Permit fees for oversize/overweight loads in Oak Ridge are determined by TDOT for state routes. City fees, if applicable, are determined by the Oak Ridge Public Works Department and depend on the size and weight of the load, the length of the route within the city limits, and any required traffic control measures.

Fees may increase for loads requiring police escorts, lane closures, or significant traffic management efforts. Contact the Oak Ridge Public Works Department for a detailed fee estimate based on your specific load and route.