Nebraska Oversize Load Regulations & Permit Guide
Important: We are not a permit service and we do not arrange permits for carriers. All information provided below is for informational purposes only. Always read permits and provisions carefully as we cannot guarantee the accuracy of information provided below.
Nebraska DOT Ph#: 402-471-0034
For companies involved in heavy equipment transport or machinery hauling services, understanding Nebraska’s oversize load safety regulations is crucial for compliant operations. Here’s what you need to know:
Permit Essentials
- Permit Validity: Oversize permits valid for 10 days (must obtain before entering state).
- Single-trip Permits: Required for most oversized movements.
- Flexibility: Special provisions for divisible loads exceeding 80,000 lbs (no permit needed if axle weights are legal).
- Interstate Use Permit: Required for any interstate route usage.
Operating Hours & Travel Restrictions
- Standard Movement: Allowed ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset (including weekends).
- Continuous Travel: Permitted for overweight-only loads.
- Metro Area Restrictions:
- Lincoln: No travel 7-9 AM & 4-6 PM weekdays on state highways (except I-80).
- Omaha: Same restrictions apply on all routes.
- Game Day Bans: Special restrictions on I-80 (exits 395-409) during Cornhusker home games.
- Holiday Closures: Permit office closed on state holidays (including unique Arbor Day closure).
Legal Dimensions for Heavy Haul Trucks
Length:
- 53′ semi-trailer standard
- 65′ for multi-trailer combinations
- Special exemptions: For construction materials.
Width:
- 8’6″: Standard width.
Height:
- 14’6″: Standard height.
Weight Limits:
- Gross: 80,000 lbs.
- Single axle: 20,000 lbs.
- Tandem: 34,000 lbs.
- Tridem: 42,000 lbs (designated roads only).
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: No set maximum (light bar required >85′ on interstates).
- Width: Up to 16′.
- Height: Varies by route (>16′ requires survey).
- Weight:
- Single: 20,000 lbs
- Tandem: 40,000 lbs
- Tridem: 70,000 lbs
- Superload Classification: >16′ width/height, >100′ length, or >160,000 lbs GVW.
Escort & Safety Requirements
Pilot Vehicles:
- Length 90′: May require 1 escort.
- Length 100′: 1 escort required.
- Width >12′: Requires 1 escort*
- *Light bar alternative: Available on interstates.
- Height 14’6″: Front escort may be required.
- Height 16′: Route survey + height pole required.
Marking & Signage:
- “Oversize Load” Signs: Required when >10′ wide.
- Flags: 18″ square flags on all corners when >12′ wide.
- Night Movement: Requires red lights visible for 200′.
Special Considerations
- Route Planning: For overweight vehicles should account for:
- Metro area curfews.
- Game day restrictions.
- Holiday travel bans.
- Spring load restrictions may apply (typically March-May).
- Unique Arbor Day permit office closure.