Maine Oversize Load Regulations: A Complete Guide for Heavy Haulers

• Maine Oversize Permits: Valid for 7 days and must be obtained before entering the state.
• Operating window: 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
• Weekend restrictions: No oversize travel allowed during July and August weekends.
• Single-Trip Permits: Required for all oversized movements.

• Lewiston & Augusta: No travel during rush hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM).
• Augusta: Requires a local permit.
• No travel: On major holidays or holiday weekends.
• Inclement weather: Travel prohibited in restricted areas.

• Maximum dimensions: 13′-6″ height, 14′-6″ width.
• Operating window: Daylight hours only, Monday-Friday (no Friday afternoons or weekends).
• Permit fee: $10 for over-width or over 70′ long (paid at toll gate).
• Phone: (207) 871-7771.

Standard Legal Dimensions (No Permit Required)

• Length:
  • 53′ semi-trailer: (74′ overall) on Interstates/designated highways.
  • 48′ trailer: (69′ overall) on other roads.
  • Overhang: Must maintain 74′ maximum overall length.
• Width: 8′-6″.
• Height: 13′-6″ (may exceed by 6″ if load isn’t reducible).
• Weight Limits:
  • Gross: 80,000 lbs.
  • Single: 20,000 lbs.
  • Tandem: 34,000 lbs.
  • Tridem: 42,000 lbs.

Routine Permit Limits

• Length: Up to 125′.
• Width: Up to 16′.
• Height: Up to 16′.
• Weight Limits:
  • Single: 20,000 lbs.
  • Tandem: 52,000 lbs.
  • Tridem: 75,000 lbs.
  • Quad: 100,000 lbs.
• Registration Requirements:
  • 90,000 lbs: Registration for weights up to 90,000 lbs.
  • 100,000 lbs: Registration for heavier loads.
• Super Loads: Exceed routine permit dimensions.

Length Requirements

• 80′-125′: 1 escort.
• Over 125′: Police escort required.

Width Requirements

• Over 12′: 1 escort.
• Over 16′: Police escort may be required.

Height Requirements

• Pilot car or police escort: May be required for “extreme” heights.

Construction Equipment

• Blades/buckets may remain attached (if removed, must be on separate trailer).

Signage & Marking

• “Oversize Load” signs required for over-width/over-length loads.
• 18″ square flags: Required at all corners and widest points.
• Rear overhang >4′: Requires flags (2 flags if overhang >2′ wide).

Lighting Requirements

• Low-beam headlights required.
• Flashing amber light/light bar required on cab.
• Signs/lights must be removed when not actively moving oversize loads.

• Route Planning for Overweight Vehicles: Critical in Maine’s rural terrain.
• Heavy Load Compliance: Requires proper vehicle registration.
• Oversize Load Safety Regulations: Mandate proper lighting and marking.
• Specialized Transport Services: May be needed for super loads.
• Logistics for Heavy Haul: Should account for seasonal restrictions.