All oversize loads entering the City of Scranton, located in Florence County, must conform to the requirements set by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT). Compliance with SCDOT regulations is the foundation for operating within Scranton city limits.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or exceeding 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight should obtain an oversize/overweight load permit from the SCDOT and potentially the Scranton Public Works Department for local roads.

Loads traversing Scranton's Main Street or requiring passage under the CSX railroad overpass on Highway 52 are subject to additional scrutiny and may require a pre-route survey to ensure clearance and structural integrity. Coordinate with the Scranton Public Works Department, particularly for loads exceeding 14 feet in height near the railroad.

Escort vehicles are typically required in Scranton when loads exceed 12 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 100 feet in length. Specific requirements depend on the route and potential obstructions. A lead escort is often mandated for widths exceeding 14 feet.

Local police escorts from the Scranton Police Department are required for movements that significantly impact traffic flow or pose a heightened safety risk. The fee for a police escort is typically $75 per hour with a 4-hour minimum. Scheduling requires at least 72 hours advance notice through the Scranton Police Department's non-emergency line.

Oversize/overweight permits are primarily obtained through the SCDOT online permitting system. For local Scranton-specific concerns or route deviations, contact the Scranton Public Works Department at (843) 389-2721.

Documentation requirements include a detailed description of the load, vehicle dimensions, axle weights, proposed route, and proof of insurance. For loads impacting local infrastructure, a structural analysis may be required by the Scranton Public Works Department.

Time-of-day restrictions are generally not enforced within Scranton, but movements are discouraged during peak traffic hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on Main Street and Highway 52 to minimize congestion.

Seasonal restrictions are rare, but SCDOT may implement temporary restrictions during severe weather events, such as hurricanes or flooding, which can affect access to Scranton via Highway 52.

Avoid routes through residential areas and near Scranton Elementary School during school hours. Route deviations require prior approval from the Scranton Public Works Department. Additionally, loads exceeding certain weight limits may be restricted from using the bridge on County Road S-21-10 near the Lynches River.

SCDOT permit fees are based on weight, distance, and dimensions. Expect a base fee of around $25 for standard oversize loads. Additional fees apply for overweight loads and extended distances.

Fees vary based on the overall weight and size of the load. Overweight fees can escalate quickly based on axle weight and gross vehicle weight. A detailed fee schedule is available on the SCDOT website.