All oversize loads entering the City of Shoreham, Berrien County, must conform to the requirements set by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and local Shoreham ordinances.

Generally, any vehicle exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or a gross vehicle weight exceeding 80,000 pounds requires an oversize/overweight permit from MDOT. However, for travel within Shoreham, permits from the Village Clerk's office may be needed for particularly large or disruptive loads.

Due to Shoreham's proximity to Lake Michigan and the potential impact on local roads like M-63 (Blue Star Highway), special consideration is given to loads affecting bridge structures and those traveling through residential areas. Contact the Shoreham Village Clerk's office for guidance on routes and potential restrictions.

In Shoreham, escort vehicles are typically required for loads exceeding 12 feet in width, 14 feet in height, or 100 feet in length. Specific requirements depend on the route and time of day.

While Shoreham does not have its own dedicated police escort division, coordination with the Berrien County Sheriff's Department may be necessary for extremely large or complex loads. Contact the Sheriff's Department at (269) 983-8600 for scheduling and fee information. Allow ample time for booking, as availability can be limited, especially during peak tourism seasons.

For loads requiring only MDOT permits, applications can be submitted online through the Michigan Automated Permit System (MAPS). For loads requiring local Shoreham approval due to their size or route impact, contact the Shoreham Village Clerk's office directly at (269) 465-5411. They can advise on the specific forms and documentation needed.

Documentation requirements typically include a detailed description of the load, vehicle dimensions, proposed route, and proof of insurance. For loads impacting village infrastructure, a traffic management plan may also be required.

Time-of-day restrictions may apply, particularly during peak traffic hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) on weekdays and during summer weekends when tourist traffic is heavy. Specific restrictions will be outlined in the permit.

Seasonal weight restrictions may be imposed on certain roads during the spring thaw (typically March and April) to protect road surfaces from damage. These restrictions are strictly enforced.

Avoid residential streets whenever possible. Certain routes, particularly those leading to the beach or through the village center, may be restricted or require additional permits. Consult with the Shoreham Village Clerk to confirm acceptable routes.

MDOT permit fees vary based on load size, weight, and distance traveled. Check the MDOT website for the current fee schedule. Shoreham may impose additional fees for local permits to cover administrative costs and potential infrastructure impact.

Fees are generally higher for larger and heavier loads, as well as for routes requiring special traffic management or infrastructure modifications.