Iowa Oversize Load Regulations: Permits, Escorts & Travel Rules
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.
Iowa DOT Ph#: 256-234-4265
When managing Oversize Heavy Haul or Heavy Equipment Transport in Iowa, understanding the state’s Oversize Permits, Weight Limits, and Escort Requirements is essential for smooth Oversized Load Transportation. Here’s what you need to know for compliant Machinery Hauling Services and Specialized Transport Services.
Permit Details & Operating Hours
- Iowa Oversize Permits: Valid for 5 days and must be obtained before entering the state.
- Continuous Travel: Allowed 24/7 for loads up to 100′ long, 11′ wide, and 14′-6″ high (within permitted axle limits) on roads with a minimum 22-foot width and 11-foot lanes, with proper safety lighting.
- Larger Loads: May only operate from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset, including weekends.
Restricted Travel Zones
- Des Moines I-235: No oversize loads allowed 7:00 AM–9:00 AM and 4:00 PM–6:00 PM, Monday–Friday.
- Other Des Moines Highways: May enforce restrictions during heavy traffic.
- Holiday Travel Bans: Check for holiday and holiday weekend travel bans.
Legal & Routine Permit Dimensions
Standard Legal Dimensions (No Permit Needed)
- Length: 53′ (no overhang exemptions for steel, beams, or construction materials)
- Width: 8′-6″
- Height: 13′-6″
- Weight Limits:
- Gross: 80,000 lbs
- Single Axle: 20,000 lbs
- Tandem Axle: 34,000 lbs
- Tridem Axle: 42,000 lbs (min. 8′-1″ spacing)
Routine Permit Limits (Single-Trip Permits)
- Length: Up to 120′
- Width: Up to 18′
- Height: Up to 18′
- Axle Weight Limits:
- Single: 20,000 lbs
- Tandem: 46,000 lbs
- Tridem: 60,000 lbs
- Quad: 80,000 lbs
- Super Loads: Exceed these dimensions and require additional approvals.
Escort Requirements for Oversize Loads
On All Highways
- Length:
- Over 85′: 1 escort or amber revolving light
- Over 120′: 1 escort
- Overhang:
- Front > 25′ or rear > 10′: 1 escort or amber/strobe light on rear
- Height:
- Over 14′-6″: 1 escort with high pole
On 4-Lane Roads
- Width:
- 14′-6″ to 16′-6″: 1 rear escort or 2 amber/strobe lights (one on truck, one on load)
- Over 16′-6″: 1 escort
On 2-Lane Roads
- Width:
- Exceeds half the road width (up to 14′-6″): 1 front escort
- Over 14′-6″: 1 escort (or lights if lane width ≥ 12′ with sufficient shoulders)
Safety & Compliance for Heavy Haul Transport
- Blades, buckets, counterweights do not need removal for oversized loads unless overweight.
- Signs & Flags: Required for loads exceeding 75′ length, 8′-6″ width, or 14′-4″ height.
- Flags (18″ square) must mark front/rear corners and widest points.
- Rear overhang > 4′ requires flags.
- Lighting: Amber revolving light (7″ min.) required if:
- Length > 85′
- Front overhang > 25′
- Rear overhang > 10′
- Weight > 80,000 lbs
- Escorts can replace lights in some cases.