All oversize loads entering the City of Rochester, Strafford County, must conform to the requirements set by the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) and the Rochester Public Works Department.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or weighing over 80,000 lbs requires an oversize/overweight load permit from the NHDOT. However, movements *within* Rochester that impact city infrastructure may require a supplemental permit from the Rochester Public Works Department, especially if involving road closures or detours.

Loads exceeding 14 feet in height will need to be carefully planned, as several overpasses on Route 16 (the Spaulding Turnpike) near Rochester have low clearances. Confirm specific clearances with NHDOT and plan routes accordingly. Also, be aware that the city is actively working on improving infrastructure, so road conditions and weight restrictions on bridges may change.

Escort vehicles are typically required in Rochester when loads exceed 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or extend significantly beyond the front or rear of the transporting vehicle. Specific requirements will be determined by the NHDOT and/or Rochester Public Works based on the specific load and route.

Local police escorts are required for movements that significantly impact traffic flow or involve lane closures on major city streets like Milton Road or Columbus Avenue. Contact the Rochester Police Department's Traffic Division at (603) 330-7128 to schedule police escorts. Fees vary but typically start at $75 per hour, per officer, with a minimum of four hours.

For state-level permits, applications should be submitted to the NHDOT Bureau of Permits. You can find information and applications on the NHDOT website (www.nh.gov/dot). For supplemental Rochester permits, contact the Rochester Public Works Department at (603) 332-4080. Be prepared to provide detailed route information, load dimensions, and vehicle specifications.

Documentation requirements include vehicle registration, insurance information, a detailed description of the load, a route survey, and a certificate of insurance. If the load involves crossing railroad tracks, provide documentation of coordination with the railroad company.

Time-of-day restrictions are in effect in Rochester, prohibiting oversize loads from traveling during peak traffic hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on weekdays, especially near schools and the downtown area.

Seasonal weight restrictions are often implemented during the spring thaw (typically March-April) to protect roadways from damage. These restrictions limit the weight of vehicles allowed on certain roads. Check with the Rochester Public Works Department for specific road closures and weight limits during this period.

Certain residential neighborhoods and narrow streets within Rochester are restricted to oversize loads. The historic district near South Main Street has narrow roadways and low-hanging wires. Avoid these areas whenever possible or obtain specific route approval from the Rochester Public Works Department.

NHDOT permit fees are based on the size and weight of the load and the distance traveled. Rochester supplemental permit fees are typically a flat rate to cover administrative costs and any required site inspections.

Fees vary based on the load's dimensions, weight, and the complexity of the route. Permits requiring multiple days or extensive traffic control will incur additional charges. Police escort fees are billed separately by the Rochester Police Department.