Wyo. Code R. 045-0004-5
Motor Carrier
Chapter 5: Size and Weight Limitations of Vehicles
Effective Date: 04/14/1994 to 09/25/2006
Rule Type: Superceded Rules & Regulations
Reference Number: 045.0004.5.04141994
W.S 31-18-801 through 31-18-808 establishes, in part, provisions for issuance of permits for the operation of vehicles or loads with dimensions or weights in excess of the legal limits permitted by statute.
Section 1. Scope. These rules and regulations:
(a) Publish statutory size and weight limits for legal vehicles and loads.
(b) Prescribe administrative procedures, including restrictions, for the issuance of permits as authorized by statute for the movement of oversize or overweight vehicles, including loads.
(c) Explain various statutory exemptions made for particular types of loads and vehicles.
(d) Amplify safety measures and escort procedures as stipulated by statute for all oversize and/or overweight movement.
(e) Reiterate statutory penalties that may be imposed upon those who fail to comply with these rules and regulations.
Section 2. Basic Philosophy. The rules contained herein have been formulated to promote the safety and general economic welfare of the public while making optimum legal use of existing highway facilities. When unusual circumstances require choices between these objectives, exceptions to specific rules may be made at the discretion of properly designated Department authorities. In this connection, it must be noted that highway safety is concerned with all factors that influence the safety of those who have occasion to use Wyoming's public highways. These factors include not only the sizes, weights, and speeds of vehicles and vehicle combinations, but also the condition of highway surfaces and bridges.
Section 3. Definitions. The following definitions include both statutory (s) and administrative (a) definitions:
(a) Agricultural Operations: The raising and harvesting of their own crops or livestock in this state by farmers or ranchers, their exchange between farmers or ranchers or the transportation of implements of husbandry to or from farmers or ranchers by persons engaged in the business of selling or repairing such implements. (s)
(b) Agricultural Products: The produce of agricultural operations. (a)
(c) Axle: The common axis of rotation of one (1) or more wheels, whether power driven or freely rotating, and whether in one (1) or more segments, and regardless of the number of wheels carried thereon. (s)
(d) Axle Group: An assemblage of two (2) or more consecutive axles considered together in determining their combined load effect on a bridge or pavement structure. (s)
(e) Axle Load: The total load transmitted to the road by an assembly of two (2) or more wheels whose centers are in one (1) transverse vertical plane or may be included between two (2) parallel transverse vertical planes forty (40) inches apart extending across the full width of the vehicle. (s)
(f) Axle Measurement: The distance between axles to the nearest foot. When fractional measurement is exactly one-half (1/2) foot, the next larger whole number shall be used. (s)
(g) Cargo: The items or freight to be moved, including items placed on or in a vehicle, towed by a vehicle or a vehicle itself. (s)
(h) Commission: Transportation Commission of Wyoming. (s)
(i) Connecting Mechanism: An arrangement of parts interconnecting two (2) or more consecutive axles to a vehicle in such a manner as to equalize the load between axles. (s)
(j) Daylight Hours: One-half hour before sunrise, one-half hour after sunset. (a)
(k) Department: Wyoming Department of Transportation. (s)
(l) Dummy Axle: An axle attached independently to a vehicle whose suspensions are not adjustable and do not articulate or substantially equalize the load and are so designed and placed as to indicate the appearance of a normal tandem axle. (s)
(m) Emergency: A condition vital to the national defense or an unforeseen circumstance, threatening life or property, which requires prompt action. (a)
(n) Escort: A vehicle or vehicles, displaying proper lights, signs, and equipment, accompanying a movement. (a)
(o) Extended Period Permit: A permit issued to cover a specific type load, permitting movement for a specified period of time and over specified routes in a limited area. (a)
(p) Flags/Flagged: The display of red or fluorescent orange flags not less than twelve (12) inches square. (s)
(q) Forest Products: Logs, poles, posts, rough lumber, wood chips, sawdust and any other product of the forest which will require further processing. (s)
(r) Gravel: Pit run gravel, coarse aggregate, a product of screened gravel, crushed gravel, crushed stone or a combination thereof. Materials not included in the definition of gravel are sand, silt and clay and refined by-products that use gravel, like plant mixed asphalt, cement treated base and portland cement concrete. (a)
(s) Gross Weight: The total weight of a vehicle and vehicle combinations including the weight of any load carried in or on a vehicle or vehicle combination. (a)
(t) Height: The total vertical dimension of any vehicle above the ground surface including any load or load-holding device thereon. (s)
(u) Highway: A public way maintained by the Department for the purpose of vehicular travel, including right-of-way or other interests in land, embankments, retaining walls, culverts, sluices, drainage structures, bridges, railroad-highway crossings, tunnels, signs, guardrails, and protective structures. (s)
(v) Implement of Husbandry: A vehicle or vehicles manufactured or designed and used exclusively for the conduct of agricultural operations and only incidentally operated on or moved on public highways. (s)
(w) Indivisible Load: A load, fixed or unfixed, consisting of an item or items that cannot be readily dismantled, divided, or otherwise reduced in size and/or weight to fall within statutory limits, or cannot be transported safely or without damage if dismantled or divided. containerized shipments will be considered divisible loads. (a)
(x) Interstate or National Defense Highway: Highways which are designated as part of the interstate system by the Transportation Commission of Wyoming which are signed and marked accordingly. (s)
(y) Length: The total longitudinal dimension of any vehicle or combination of vehicles, including any load or load-holding device thereon, but excluding any device or appurtenance attached to the front or rear of a semitrailer or trailer whose function is related to the safety of, or efficient operation of, the unit or contents. Excluded devices include, but are not limited to, air hose glad hands, fifth wheel slide plates, dock bumpers, air deflectors and refrigeration units. No excluded devices shall be designed or used for carrying cargo. (s)
(z) Load: A weight or quantity of anything resting upon something else regarded as its support. (s)
(aa) Mobile Machinery: Means heavy equipment, except shop or hand tools or attachments, which is self-propelled, towed or hauled and used primarily in construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, ditches, buildings or land reclamation. (s)
(bb) Motor Vehicle: A vehicle which is self-propelled or propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but not operating on rails. (s)
(cc) Office of Overweight Loads: Office within the Highway Patrol Division of the Department responsible for processing requests to move loads that exceed normal oversize/overweight limits, administering the self-issuing permit program administering permits exceeding 117,000 lbs. gross weight and for issuing extended period permits. (a)
(dd) Oversize Load: A load, fixed or unfixed, that exceeds statutory size limits. (a)
(ee) Overweight Load: A load, fixed or unfixed, that exceeds statutory weight limits. (a)
(ff) Permit: A written authorization to move or operate on a highway a vehicle or vehicle with a load of size or weight exceeding the limits as specified by statute, which are limited by this act and regulations of the Department. (s)
(gg) Permit Issuing Authorities: Those persons authorized under Section 5, paragraph (a) herein to issue oversize and/or overweight permits. (a)
(hh) Primary and Secondary Highways: Highways which are designated as part of the primary and secondary system by the Transportation Commission of Wyoming which are signed and marked accordingly. (s)
(ii) Produce of Husbandry: The product of farming or ranching operation yielded directly from the soil, including livestock. (a)
(jj) Registered Vehicle: A vehicle designed to be operated primarily upon the highway and which would require licensing in the State of Wyoming. (a)
(kk) Resident: Any individual, partnership or corporation which has a principle place of business in the State of Wyoming for a period of one year or more. (a)
(ll) Roadway: That portion of a highway improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk, berm or shoulder. In the event a highway includes two (2) or more separate roadways the term “roadway” as used herein shall refer to any such roadway separately but not all such roadways collectively. (s)
(mm) Safety Device: Any piece of equipment or mechanism, including rear view mirrors, pin pockets not to exceed three (3) inches on each side and other devices designated by the Director, attached to a vehicle to assure its safe operation and to assure the safe movement of a load hauled by the vehicle. (s)
(nn) Self-issuing Permits: Permit forms issued to applicants which are to be completed by the applicants. (s)
(oo) Semi-Trailer: Every vehicle of a trailer type not equipped with propelling power so designed for carrying property and used in conjunction with a motor vehicle that some part of its own weight and load rests upon or is carried by another vehicle. (s)
(pp) Separate Movement: Each movement of a load to a specified location. Round trip movements will be allowed when the entire move can be completed in the same calendar day. (a)
(qq) Single Axle: An assemblage of two (2) or more wheels, whose centers are in one transverse vertical plane or may be included between two parallel transverse vertical planes forty (40) inches apart extending across the full width of the vehicle. (s)
(rr) Single Axle Load: The total load transmitted to the road by a single axle. (s)
(ss) Single Unit Length: One vehicle, except that assemblages such as a jeep or booster axles used with a semi trailer may be considered as part of the single unit length. (a)
(tt) Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem: Standard American Society of Agricultural Engineers emblem which designates a vehicle designed to operate at speeds of 25 m.p.h., or less. (s)
(uu) Statutory Limits: Those limits of size and weight, established by the Wyoming Statutes, which can be moved over the highways without the necessity of securing a permit. (a)
(vv) Superintendent: The Director of the Department of Transportation. (a)
(ww) Tandem Axle: Any two (2) or more consecutive load bearing axles whose centers are more than forty (40) inches but not more than ninety-six (96) inches apart and articulate from an attachment to the vehicle including a connecting mechanism designed to distribute the load between axles. (s)
(xx) Tandem Axle Load: The total weight transmitted to the road by two (2) or more consecutive axles whose centers may be included between parallel transverse vertical planes spaced more than forty (40) inches and not more than ninety-six (96) inches apart, extending the full width of the vehicle. (s)
(yy) Tire, Pneumatic: Means every tire in which compressed air is designed to support the load. (a)
(zz) Trailer: Every vehicle not equipped with propelling power, designed for carrying property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle which carries no part of the weight and load of a trailer on its own wheels. (s)
(aaa) Transportable Home: (i) Modular home; (ii) Prebuilt home; (iii) or a unit more than eight and one-half feet in width which is designed, constructed and equipped as a dwelling place, living abode or place of business to which wheels may be attached for movement upon streets and highways except a unit used primarily as a mobile laboratory or mobile office. (a)
(bbb) Truck: A motor vehicle designed, used, or maintained primarily for the transportation of property. (s)
(ccc) Truck-Tractor: A motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles, but not for loads other than a part of the weight of the vehicles and load drawn. For the purpose of this act, a truck-tractor equipped with a dromedary unit shall be considered a part of the weight of the vehicle and not a load thereon. (s)
(ddd) Variable Load Suspension Axle: An axle used in conjunction with two (2) or more axles to produce an arrangement, with the variable load suspension axle capable of producing approximately equal distribution of the load between axle arrangements. (s)
(eee) Vehicle: A device in, upon or by which any person or property may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon rails or tracks. (s)
(fff) Vehicle Combination: Any connected assemblage of motor vehicle and one (1) or more other vehicles. (s)
(ggg) Width: The total outside transverse dimension of a vehicle including any load or load-holding devices thereon, but excluding approved safety devices and tire bulge due to load. (s)
(a) Statutory size limits include vehicles, loads, load-holding devices, and bumpers; but do not include approved safety devices.
(b) Permits are required for vehicles and loads that exceed the statutory limits.
(c) Statutory Size and Weight Limits
Width: 8 1/2 ft.
Height: 14 ft.
Length: 60 ft. - single unit, or semi-trailer in a truck-tractor semi-tractor combination
81 ft. - Semi-trailer, trailer combined length in a truck-tractor, semi-trailer, trailer combination (48 ft. - maximum semi-trailer) (40 ft. - maximum trailer)
The heavier towed vehicle shall be directly behind the truck-tractor and the lighter towed vehicle shall be last if the weight difference between consecutive towed vehicles exceeds five thousand (5,000) pounds.
85 ft. - any combination of vehicles other than those listed above.
(No combination of vehicles shall consist of more than three (3) single vehicles).
Weight:
Single axle = 20,000 lbs.
Two axle tandem = 36,000 lbs.
Three axle tandem = 42,500 lbs.
Four axle tandem = Refer to Table I when bridge measures twelve (12) feet or more.
Each Wheel = 10,000 lbs.
Each tire -
Steering = 750 lbs. per inch of width
Other tires = 600 lbs. per inch of width
Gross Weight:
Interstate = 117,000 lbs. - Table I by formula
Primary & Secondary = 80,000 lbs. - Table II
Primary & Secondary = 117,000 lbs. - Table I by formula
The following weight tables establish the maximum legal gross weight of vehicles. Weight Table I requires the checking of all consecutive groups of axles to determine legal limits. It is referred to as the “inner bridge” system.
Table II, for primary and secondary highways only, requires measuring from the first axle to the last axle to determine the maximum gross weight allowed. Vehicles with two (2) consecutive set of tandem axles with a distance of less than twenty-two (22) feet between the first and last axles of the consecutive sets shall comply with Gross Weight Table I.
Vehicles operating on primary and secondary highways may operate in accordance with Table I or Table II at the discretion of the operator.
(a) Subject to the conditions outlined in these rules and regulations, the following are permit issuing authorities authorized to issue permits for movements of indivisible oversize and/or overweight loads and vehicles.
(b) Class A permits authorize separate movements of indivisible loads that exceed the Class B/C limits. They are approved by the office of overweight loads and are issued by permit issuing authorities. They are subject to any conditions or restrictions imposed.
(c) Class B permits authorize separate movements of indivisible loads that do not exceed the Class B/C limits; they are issued by permit issuing authorities with prior approval from permit issuing authority.
(d) Class C permits are self-issuing permits that authorize separate movements of indivisible loads that do not exceed the Class B/C limits; they are approved and issued to qualified residents of the state of Wyoming by the Office of Overweight Loads. The self-issuing permit holder is required to complete a separate Class C permit prior to each separate movement. Instructions are contained in Section 16.
(e) Class D permits are extended period permits that authorize multiple movements of vehicles without load that do not exceed the Class D limits. They are approved for specified vehicles, routes, and time periods. They will be issued as explained in Section 17 and Section 18 of these regulations.
| Measurements | Class B/C Limits | Class D Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Width: | 18 ft. | 12 ft. |
| Height: | 17 ft. | 15 ft. |
| Length: | Single unit, or part of a combination 90 ft. | 75 ft. |
| Weight: | Vehicle combination 105 ft. | |
| Single Axle | 25,000 lbs. | 25,000 lbs. |
| Two axle tandem | 55,000 lbs. | 55,000 lbs. |
| Three axle tandem | 65,000 lbs. | 65,000 lbs. |
| Four axle tandem | 74,000 lbs. | 74,000 lbs. |
| (Quad) | ||
| Gross Weight: | 150,000 lbs. | 150,000 lbs. |
| Construction equipment with large tires-Single axle. | 55,000 lbs. | 55,000 lbs. |
(i) An overweight load shall be considered an indivisible load when it consists of an item that cannot be readily dismantled, divided, or otherwise reduced to fall within statutory limits, or cannot be transported safely or without damage, if dismantled or divided.
(A) Readily divisible loads, such as, but not limited to loads of block, brick, sacks of cement, lumber, pipe, machinery items, etc., must be reduced to fall within statutory limits.
(B) Loads of heavy equipment (i.e. bulldozers with blades and rippers attached and cranes with counterweights and booms attached) loaded in configurations closely approximating operational configurations, shall generally not be considered readily divisible, if axle weights do not exceed the Class B/C limits. Furthermore, loads of heavy equipment that meet these criteria, but have been partially dismantled and rearranged to achieve safer highway configurations, may also be allowed if the appropriate permit-issuing authorities agree that highway safety has been enhanced by the re-arrangement. Overweight loads shall be arranged to approximately equalize the weight between axle groups when possible.
(C) Any overweight load that exceeds the Class B/C axle limits must be dismantled regardless of inconvenience.
(ii) An oversize load shall be considered an indivisible load when it consists of one or more items that cannot be readily dismantled, divided, or otherwise reduced in size to fall within statutory limits, or cannot be transported safely or without damage if dismantled or divided. When an oversize load includes two or more items being hauled along with a one-piece oversize item which is being permitted for its oversize, the two or more pieces will be allowed so long as the entire load is being transported or hauled on the same vehicle or trailer, and their combined dimensions do not exceed the dimensions of, or change the configuration of, the permitted portion of the load.
(a) Under no circumstances will the one-piece permitted portion of the above type of load be allowed to be transported or hauled back and forth when used as an oversized vehicle and/or trailer to permit the continuous transportation of multiple piece oversize loads. (See allowable examples of these and other loads in Section 3).
(b) When an oversize load includes two or more oversize items not being transported in conjunction with a one-piece oversize permitted item and these items are loaded in a configuration that results in their combined dimensions being greater than statutory limits, the load shall be considered divisible insofar as it is possible to conform to the statutory limit exceeded.
(h) Oversize vehicles may be used to transport legal, one-piece oversize, or one-piece overweight loads smaller or lighter than the vehicles were designed to transport; however, all oversize and/or overweight loads must meet indivisible load requirements, and appropriate permits are required for all moves.
Section 6. Statutory Exemptions. The following have been exempted from one or more of the statutory limits.
(a) Towing of disabled vehicles as described in W.S. 31-18-808.
(b) Implements and produce of husbandry. (See Section 21)
(c) Forest products, gravel and agricultural products that cannot be weighed at point of loading. (See Section 19)
(d) Permits for multi-piece loads in excess of 117,000 lbs. (See Section 20)
(a) Class A, B & C permit fees for oversize loads shall be Fifteen dollars ($15.00) for any vehicle or load that exceeds the statutory limits, plus an additional three cents ($.03) for each foot or fraction thereof in excess of the following dimensions for each mile traveled.
| Width: | 15 ft. |
|---|---|
| Height: | 15 ft. |
| Length: single unit | 75 ft. |
(b) Class A, B & C permit fees for overweight loads shall be four cents ($.04) for each ton or fraction thereof in excess of the statutory limits for each mile traveled, with a minimum fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00).
(c) A permit for loads exceeding eighty (80) tons (160,000 pounds) shall not be issued until the permittee has paid all costs incurred by the State to determine routing, structure and highway capability to withstand the load and the cost incurred by sending personnel to accompany the movement of the load.
(d) Class D permit fees are listed in Section 18.
(e) Class E and Class F permit fees are listed in Section 19.
(a) Hours. The movement of any oversize load or vehicle shall be made only during the daylight hours, except for the following:
(i) With permission of the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
(ii) A single unit as part of a combination exceeding 60 feet in length, properly permitted, signed and lighted as required in Section 9 provided the overall length of the combination does not exceed 85 feet.
(iii) A load up to 10 feet wide properly permitted and equipped as required in Section 9 on interstate highways only.
Permit issuing authorities may restrict movements to the daylight hours of minimum traffic volume; such hours may be stipulated as a condition of the permit.
(b) Dates. Oversize movements requiring escorts will not be allowed on legal holidays or during local celebrations when heavy local traffic is anticipated.
Legal holidays when travel will be restricted are:
January 1 - New Year's Day
May - Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
July 4 - Independence Day
September - Labor Day (First Monday in September)
November - Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
December 25 - Christmas Day
(c) Movements requiring escorts will not be permitted to travel from 1/2 hour after sunset the evening before a holiday to 1/2 hour before sunrise the day after the holiday. When a holiday is combined with a weekend for a three-day weekend, these restrictions will be in force from 1/2 hour after sunset the day preceding the holiday weekend through 1/2 hour before sunrise the day following the holiday weekend. When a holiday falls on a Saturday, no move requiring escorts will be permitted from 1/2 hour after sunset Thursday to 1/2 hour before sunrise Monday and when a holiday falls on a Sunday, no move requiring escorts will be permitted from 1/2 hour after sunset Friday to 1/2 hour before sunrise Tuesday.
(d) In cases of extreme emergencies where oversize and overweight moves requiring escorts must be made on legal holidays or weekends, the Highway Patrol shall be contacted. If the Highway Patrol concurs in the necessity for the move, they will assist in obtaining the appropriate permission.
(e) Overweight movements, not exceeding 25,000 pounds on single axle; 55,000 pounds on tandem axle; and 65,000 pounds on triple axle; or a gross of 150,000 pounds, may move at the discretion of permit issuing authorities.
Section 9. Safety Measures on Moves. All oversize and/or overweight movements must observe the following stipulations during the movement:
(a) Movements traveling at an average speed of less than twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) must display a slow moving vehicle emblem on the rear of the vehicle.
(b) Oversize movements are confined to daylight hours (as defined in Section 3) and when travel conditions are favorable. During daylight hours when any vehicle having a load which extends beyond its sides or more than four (4) feet beyond its rear, shall display red or fluorescent orange flags, not less than twelve (12) inches square, marking the extremities of the load.
(c) Overlength loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require a red lamp and red reflector on each corner of the load visible from the rear and each side so as to indicate maximum overhang. Overwidth loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require an amber clearance light on each front corner and a red clearance light on each rear corner of the load and display a revolving amber light, amber strobe light or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least 4' in diameter on the vehicle, visible to both front and rear.
(d) Oversize movements must display warning signs that read 'oversize load' visible from the front and rear. The signs must have a yellow background and be at least sixty inches wide by ten inches high, with black letters at least eight, (8) inches high, and painted in one (1) inch wide brush strokes. The signs shall be kept in a clean condition, fully visible and shall not cover lights on the vehicle. Required 'oversize load' signs shall not be displayed on motor vehicles, semi-trailers, trailers, and escort vehicles after completion of oversize movements or whenever such vehicle is being operated at times the oversize load signs are not required.
(e) Motor vehicles which are constructed or loaded so as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear thereof from the driver's position shall be equipped with outside rear view mirrors on both sides located to reflect to the driver a view of the roadway to the rear of the vehicle, unless a rear escort vehicle is accompanying the movement.
(f) Escorts for width: On primary and secondary routes when any portion of the vehicle or load extends to the left of the highway centerline or the movement is fourteen feet (14') or greater in width, escorts will be required. On Interstate and divided highways and four (4) lane roadways with a left turn center lane when the movement is fifteen feet (15') or greater in width, escorts will be required. Depending on load width, additional escorts may be required by the Highway Patrol.
(g) Escorts for length: On primary and secondary routes escorts will be required for movements one hundred and five feet (105') or more in overall length or for movements that will extend to the left of the centerline at any time during the movement. On interstate and divided highways escorts for length will be required at the discretion of the Wyoming Highway Patrol.
(h) Escort requirements for overheight shall be at the discretion of the permit issuing authority. A height measuring device may be required.
(i) All oversize vehicles shall have headlights and taillights lighted and visible during movement.
(j) It shall be the responsibility of the permit holder to determine if the height of the vehicle or load can traverse the proposed route safely without damaging overhead wires or structures. Should it be necessary to lift overhead wires, the utility in charge of such wires must be notified by the permit holder and all costs incurred shall be borne by the permit holder, unless the wires are lower than regulations require, in which case the utility will be responsible.
(k) Oversize movements, such as transportable homes, that are halted or restricted due to prevailing conditions, may have their permit extended by a permit issuing authority for the length of time necessary to complete the move provided that the extension is requested and the movement is continued on the first day that conditions permit.
(l) The Wyoming Highway Patrol may halt or limit any movement is causing damage to the highway or poses a hazard to the motoring public. Oversize loads may be restricted during inclement weather or on ice and/or snow covered highways. Inclement weather includes rain, fog, snow/ice and high wind conditions.
Section 10. Escort Procedure. The following procedures shall be mandatory minimum requirements for all escorted moves:
(a) Speed limit. Speed limits imposed by the permit issuing authority shall govern all escorted moves, but in no event shall such moves exceed the legal or posted speed limit. Speed limits shall be obeyed by the escorting vehicles as well as the permitted movement.
(b) Route. All movements shall be made on highways designated on the permit. Alternate routes shall not be used without prior approval by a permit issuing authority.
(c) Time of movement. All escorted moves shall be made during daylight hours and the times specified on the permit. Class C permit holders shall make all movements possible during the hours of minimum highway travel.
(d) Weather. Escorted moves may be restricted during inclement weather or on ice and/or snow covered highways. Inclement weather includes rain, fog, snow/ice and high wind conditions.
(e) Traffic. Escorted movements shall be conducted with a minimum of impediment to other highway users. Escorted movements shall move to the highway shoulder whenever vehicular traffic behind the movements becomes congested and shall remain off the main traveled portion of the roadway until the following traffic has cleared.
(f) Obstacles. Escorted movements approaching narrow bridges, or other obstacles that pose potential hazards shall be halted when safety dictates and removed from the traveled way until the escort vehicle proceeds past the obstacle and halts approaching traffic. The escorted movement may proceed past the obstacle when safe to do so.
(g) Minimum number of escorts: Escorts shall be provided to the front and rear of movements on primary and secondary highways. On interstate and divided highways, and four (4) lane roadways with a left turn center lane when the movement is fifteen feet (15) or greater in width, escort(s) to the rear will be required. Escort(s) shall maintain a distance of approximately 1000 feet from the oversize load, unless a shorter distance is necessary to provide control over the movement.
(i) Two oversize loads, each requiring escorts, may travel together on a two-lane highway maintaining a distance of approximately 1000 feet apart. One escort in front of the first load and one escort behind the second load shall be maintained at a distance of approximately 1000 feet, unless a shorter distance is necessary to provide control over the movement. On interstate or four-lane highways, one escort to the rear of the second load will be maintained.
(ii) A third oversize load requiring escorts cannot travel with a group of two oversize loads but must remain at a minimum distance of one-half mile from the group and also must have its own escorts.
(iii) A convoy of four oversize loads requiring escorts may travel in two groups separated by a distance of at least one-half mile. Each group must have their own escorts.
(iv) Where movements are confined to four-lane divided highways, and a segment of one lane is closed for repairs and the other lane is being used for two-way traffic, additional escorts may be required if a special hazard exists or the movement cannot be kept to the right of the centerline.
(v) Movements requiring escorts using the interstate highways and intervening two-lane highways will need one escort for the interstate and two for the two-lane highways.
(h) Parking. Drivers of escort vehicles shall insure that escorted movements do not park on the main traveled portion or the shoulder of the highway unless it becomes necessary in an emergency, or to properly pass an obstacle. Should it be necessary to park movements in such a manner, it must be adequately protected by flagmen, flares, an escort vehicle, and/or other suitable warning devices.
(a) The following requirements are the minimum equipment needed for escorting oversize and/or overweight movements:
(i) Escort Vehicles. Escort vehicles must be licensed, single motor vehicles. Motorcycles will not be allowed to serve as escort vehicles.
(ii) Flashing Lights. Escort vehicles must display a revolving flashing amber light, amber strobe light, or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights mounted on top of the vehicle. The lights shall be at least four (4) inches in diameter and be clearly visible at least five hundred (500) feet from the front and rear of the vehicle.
(iii) Signs. Escort vehicle must display warning signs, visible to approaching traffic, that read “oversize load”. The signs must be at least sixty (60) inches wide by ten (10) inches high, and lettering at least eight (8) inches high, painted in black with a one inch brush stroke on a yellow background. The signs shall be kept in a clean condition, fully visible and shall not cover lights on the vehicle. Signs shall not be displayed except when actually escorting an oversize load.
(iv) Flags. Escort vehicles shall conspicuously display red or fluorescent orange flags mounted on a staff at each end of the oversize load sign. Flags shall be at least twelve (12) inches square.
(v) Headlights. Headlights and taillights on escort vehicles shall be lighted and visible during movement.
(vi) Mirrors. Escort vehicles shall be equipped with a left outside mirror.
(vii) Communications. Escorted vehicles and escort vehicles shall be equipped with 2-way radios capable of transmitting and receiving at all times.
(b) Escort and towing vehicles must not display oversize load signs or utilize flashing lights except during an approved permitted movement of oversize or overweight loads.
Section 12. Rating and Posting of Highways and Structures. Certain highways and structures may be limited to loads of less than statutory limits. When a reduced size or weight is necessary, the highway and/or structures will be posted with maximum allowable limits.
Section 13. Damage to Highways and Structures. Should damage occur to the roadway, structures, or any highway property during the movement of an overweight and/or oversize load, the permit holder shall immediately stop the movement and correct the condition causing the damage. Repair costs for damage incurred shall be reimbursed to the Department by the person or firm causing the damage regardless of whether or not a Department inspector accompanied the move. The issuance of a permit shall not be construed to warrant the condition of the highway and/or structures and shall not relieve the holder from responsibility for damages.
Section 14. Penalty for Violation. Any person failing to comply with these rules and regulations shall be subject to the penalties set forth in W.S 31-18-805 and the permit shall be subject to revocation.
Nothing herein contained shall be construed to permit a vehicle that is overweight or oversize and has not obtained a permit or permission in advance to be operated on the highways of this state.
Section 15. National Defense. The size and weight limitations set forth in this Chapter shall not apply to special military movements on the highway system.
Section 16. Self-Issuing Permit Procedures. Self-issuing permits (Class C permit) are issued upon request to qualified residents of the state of Wyoming by the Office of Overweight Loads. These permits authorize separate movements of indivisible loads that do not exceed the Class C limits indicated in Section 5 and may be used for all vehicles owned by or leased to the self-issuing permit holder.
(a) Application and accountability.
(i) Resident individuals and firms requesting issuance of Class C permits must complete a written application (Form M-45). Applications may be obtained by writing to the Office of Overweight Loads, P.O. Box 1708, Cheyenne, Wyoming 82003-1708; or by telephoning 777-4376.
(ii) Class C permits will be issued by the Office of Overweight Loads after:
(A) Applications have been reviewed and approved.
(B) Applicants have received instruction on the rules and regulations governing the use of the permits.
(C) The established fee has been paid to the Department for permits requested.
(iii) The number of permits issued must be accounted for by the holder at all times upon request by the Office of Overweight Loads. In the event a permit is lost or destroyed, the holder must notify the Office of Overweight Loads at once. Failure to notify the Office of Overweight Loads may be grounds for suspension of the privilege of writing self-issuing permits.
(b) Restrictions on use.
(i) Class C permits are valid for separate movements only.
(ii) The route of the proposed movement must be checked prior to completing the permit form for restrictions placed by the Department. Self-issuers will be notified of route restrictions. Failure to comply with restrictions may be cause for cancellation of the privilege of writing self-issuing permits.
(iii) Should the proposed movement exceed the Class C limits specified in Section 5, the self-issuer must obtain approval from the Highway Patrol Office of Overweight Loads.
(iv) Self-issuing permit holders may only issue permits for vehicles owned or leased by them. Permits shall not be issued to other individuals or firms.
(v) Loads to be moved with self-issuing permits must weigh at the first available, scale along The route which would not require more than 10 miles of off route travel. If weight cannot be obtained under this premise the office of overweight loads should be contacted for weight approval. If a load is to be weighed, the permit must be completely filled out except for weights. Weights will be filled in when obtained. (vi) Self-issuing permits cannot be issued for movement of transportable homes without authorization of the Director.
(c) Submission of fees.
(i) Fees must be submitted to the Accounting and Budget program, Wyoming Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 1708, Cheyenne, Wyoming 82003-1708, not later than date due on invoice, for all permits issued the preceding month. Any delinquency of payments can be cause for cancellation from the Self-Issuing Permit Program. Remittances not made in compliance with this paragraph may be grounds for cancellation from the Self-Issuing Permit Program.
(ii) In case of an underpayment, the holder shall immediately remit the amount due when notified.
(iii) Permits and fees will be audited by the Office of Overweight Loads. Discrepancies may be grounds for suspension of the privilege of writing self-issuing permits.
(iv) Delinquent payments: Two (2) delinquent payments within any twelve (12) consecutive months will result in an automatic ninety (90) day suspension of usage privileges and possible retraining of company personnel in the use and preparation of self-issuing permits.
(d) Completion and disposition of permits.
(i) All copies of the permit shall be fully completed before the movement begins (except as provided in (b) (v) above) and a copy of the permit shall be carried in the vehicle to which it refers and displayed to any permit issuing or law enforcement authority upon request.
(ii) The dates of movement on the permit shall be only those necessary to complete the move.
(iii) Disposition of copies will be as noted on the permit.
(iv) White and hard copies of permits will be submitted immediately after movement.
(v) Permits must be submitted in a timely manner. Permits received in the overweight loads office after the invoices for that month are sent out will result in the following: 1) the first occurrence in calendar year will result in the company being contacted and requested to add permit(s) to the invoice. Company will be warned that another occurrence will result in suspension of privileges until late permit(s) and invoice are paid. 2) Second occurrence in a calendar year will result in suspension of privileges until late permit(s) and invoice are paid.
(e) Penalty for Misuse. Holders of self-issuing permits shall be responsible for the proper use and preparation of self-issuing permits. Should an audit or investigation by the Department reveal discrepancies in the permit holder's operations, the privilege of writing self-issuing permits may be suspended.
(a) Requests for approval of Class A permits must be made at the Office of Overweight Loads, P.O. Box 1708, Cheyenne, Wyoming 82003-1708 or by calling (307) 777-4376. Calls may be made to request applications for permits Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed holidays)
Class B, D, E and F permits may not be issued without permission from permit issuing authorities as listed in Section 5.
(b) The following information may be needed from individuals and firms requesting Class A, D, E or F permits before approval is given.
(c) Restrictions, requirements for lighter loads, alternate routes or other conditions may be imposed by the Highway Patrol Office of Overweight Loads in order to insure the structural integrity of the highway system and to minimize the inconvenience to other highway users.
(d) Requests for Class A,B,D,E,F permits will generally be approved immediately if the movement does not exceed the limits indicated in the applicable tables; however, it must be recognized that for some movements, a thorough study of the proposed route may be necessary and may require forty-eight (48) or more hours for completion.
(e) Requests for A,B,D,E,F permits will be processed upon approval and receipt of the proper permit fees.
(a) Permits may be obtained for a period of time not exceeding one year, authorizing the movement of vehicles without load that exceed statutory weight limits and/or size limits up to twelve (12) feet wide, fifteen (15) feet high, seventy-five (75) feet long single vehicle. (See Section 5)
(b) Class D permits will be issued only for a restricted area of travel and upon good cause shown that a Class B or C permit would not be appropriate.
(c) Class D permits may be obtained from the permit issuing authorities as listed in Section 5. Applicants must submit the information as directed in Section 17.
(d) The permit fee for oversize is fifty ($50.00) dollars. The minimum permit fee for overweight is twenty-five dollars $25.00. The overweight fee is computed at the rate of four cents (4¢) per ton mile on weight exceeding the statutory limit. The total mileage must be declared by the applicant at time of application.
(e) Any operation or movement other than authorized by the Class D permit will require a Class A, B, or C permit, as the case may be.
(f) The permit must be carried in the vehicle to which it refers and displayed to any permit issuing or law enforcement authority upon request.
(g) Safety regulations governing Class D permits:
(i) Movements traveling at an average speed of less than twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem fully visible to the rear.
(ii) Oversize movements are confined to daylight hours (as defined in Section 3) and when travel conditions are favorable. During daylight hours when any vehicle having a load which extends beyond its sides or more than four (4) feet beyond its rear, shall display red or fluorescent orange flags, not less than twelve (12) inches square, marking each corner of the load.
(iii) Overlength loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require a red lamp and red reflector on each corner of the load visible from the rear and each side so as to indicate maximum overhang. Overwidth loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require an amber clearance light on each front corner and a red clearance light on each rear corner of the load and display a revolving amber light, amber strobe light or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least 4' in diameter on the vehicle, visible to both front and rear.
(iv) Oversize movements are allowed only during the daylight hours, except that snow removal equipment may operate on a twenty-four (24) hour per day basis when the operation is authorized and stated on the permit.
(v) Oversized vehicles must display yellow warning signs and/or amber lights as stated in sub-paragraph (A) and (B) below.
(A) Yellow warning signs that read 'oversize load' fully visible from the front and rear. The signs must be at least sixty (60) inches wide by ten (10) inches high, and the lettering must be black, eight (8) inches high and painted in brush strokes one (1) inch wide. The sign shall be kept in a clean condition and not obscure any lights required on the vehicles; or
(B) A lighted, revolving flashing amber light, amber strobe light, or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least four (4) inches in diameter. These lights must be clean and clearly visible at least five hundred (500) feet from the front and rear of the vehicle.
(C) Vehicles authorized for other than daylight operation shall display the amber lights as stated in paragraph (v)(B) above.
(D) Vehicles authorized for snow removal operations may haul sand, for sanding operations or stability, up to the statutory weight limitations.
(i) Permits may be obtained for hauling of forest products up to a width of one hundred twelve (112) inches or the hauling of baled hay or combine headers up to a width of one hundred fifty (150) inches and a height of fifteen (15) feet. No single component of the load may exceed one hundred two (102) inches in width.
(ii) A one trip permit may be obtained from permit issuing authorities as listed in Section 5 for a fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00).
(iii) Permits for ninety (90) days may be obtained from permit issuing authorities as listed in Section 5 for a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00)
(iv) Movements under these permits must comply with the provisions of Section 9, Safety Measures and Moves.
(v) The permit must be carried in the vehicle to which it refers and be displayed to any permit issuing authority or law enforcement upon request.
(vi) Class E permits must specify only one power unit, but may list multiple trailer plate information.
(i) Permits may be obtained, exclusive of Interstate highways, for the hauling of forest products, sugar beets, gravel, livestock and agricultural products hauled in trucks that cannot be weighed at point of loading at a weight which is not more than ten percent (10%) in excess of allocable axle weights and not more than five thousand (5,000) pounds in excess of gross weights allowed under Gross Weight Table 1.
(ii) A one trip permit may be obtained from permit issuing authorities as listed in Section 5 for a fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00).
(iii) A permit for ninety (90) days may be obtained from permit issuing authorities as listed in Section 5 for a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00).
(iv) A permit must be obtained before movement beings, carried in the vehicle to which it refers, and must be displayed to any permit issuing authority or law enforcement upon request.
Permits may be requested from the highway patrol office of overweight loads for operation on primary and secondary highways only. For more information and applications contact the office of overweight loads at (307)777-4376 or send correspondence to P.O. Box 1708, Cheyenne, WY 820031708.
(i) Wyoming farmers and ranchers, when transporting their own implements or produce of husbandry or exchanging transportation of implements or produce with other farmers or ranchers, may exceed the statutory width and height limits, but must comply with the regulations stated in this section in paragraph c.
(i) A permit (Class F) may be obtained for hauling forest products, sugar beets, gravel, livestock, and agricultural products hauled in trucks that cannot be weighed at point of loading allowing not more than Class F limits. This permit is not allowed transportation on interstate highways. A permit must be obtained before transportation begins and must be carried in the truck to which it refers, and must be displayed to any permit issuing authority or law enforcement upon request. A permit may be obtained from any permit issuing authority as listed in Section 5. A one trip permit may be obtained for a fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00). A ninety (90) day permit may be obtained for a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00).
(i) Movements exceeding sixteen (16) feet in width or height must be approved by the Highway Patrol.
(ii) Movements exceeding sixteen (16) feet in width or any movement that cannot be kept to the right of the highway center line shall require the use of properly equipped escort vehicles (as described in paragraph viii of this section) to the front and rear of the overwidth movement. Escort(s) for movements exceeding 16 feet in height may be required.
(iii) All movements, regardless of size, traveling at an average speed of less than twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem fully visible to the rear.
(iv) Oversize movements are confined to daylight hours (as defined in Section 3) and when travel conditions are favorable. During daylight hours when any vehicle having a load which extends beyond its sides or more than four (4) feet beyond its rear, shall display red or fluorescent orange flags, not less than twelve (12) inches square, marking each corner of the load.
(v) Overlength loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require a red lamp and red reflector on each corner of the load visible from the rear and each side so as to indicate maximum overhang. Overwidth loads authorized to travel after daylight hour will require an amber clearance light on each front corner and a red clearance light on each rear corner of the load and display a revolving amber light, amber strobe light or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least 4' in diameter on the vehicle, visible to both front and rear.
(vi) All movements traveling at an average speed of less than twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) and exceeding eight and one-half (8 1/2) feet in width must in addition to the slow moving vehicle emblem display a lighted revolving flashing amber light, strobe light, or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least four inches in diameter. These lights must be clearly visible at least five hundred (500) feet from the front and rear of the movement. Properly equipped escort vehicles (as described in paragraph viii of this section) to the front and rear or properly displayed warnings signs that read “oversize load” as described in paragraph ix of this section fully visible to the front and rear may be used in lieu of this lighting requirement.
(vii) Movements exceeding eight and one-half feet in width and traveling at a speed in excess of twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) shall, in lieu of the slow-moving vehicle warning sign, display warning signs as described in paragraph ix of this section, fully visible to the front and the rear. Non-registered self propelled implement may display lighted revolving flashing amber light, strobe light, or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least four inches in diameter in lieu of “oversize load” signs. These lights must be clearly visible at least five hundred (500) feet from the front and rear of the movement. Properly equipped escort vehicles as described in paragraph viii of this section may be used in lieu of this lighting requirement.
(viii) When escort vehicles are required an “oversize load” sign as described in Section 9, must be displayed and fully visible to the front of the front escort and to the rear of the rear escort. The “oversize load” signs may not cover or obscure any required lights, and shall be displayed only when actually escorting an oversize load. A red or fluorescent orange flag at least twelve (12) inches square mounted on a staff shall be displayed at each end of the “oversize load” sign. The escort vehicle’s headlights, taillights, and hazard warning flashers shall be lighted and visible during the movement. Escort vehicles shall be equipped with an outside rearview mirror on the left side. Two-way radio communications are not required for escorted movements under this section.
(ix) The specifications for “oversize load” signs are as follows:
(A) The signs must read oversize load.
(B) The signs must have a yellow background at least sixty (60) inches wide and ten (10) inches high with black letters at least eight (8) inches high and a one (1) inch brush stroke.
(C) The signs shall be kept in a clean condition, fully visible, and shall not cover lights on the vehicle.
(d) Movements that are overlength and overweight or overweight are not allowed without a permit.
(a) Custom agricultural operations means the contracting or for hire operation of harvesting crops processing of agriculture products or fertilizing the soil.
(b) Permits are required prior to operating oversize and/or overweight vehicles or loads on state highways. Permission may be obtained to proceed to the nearest permit issuing authority as listed in Section 5 to obtain the permit by calling that authority before the movement begins.
(c) The applicant must declare the state highways to be used, the total mileage on state highways, and the size and weight of the vehicles and loads.
(d) A permit may be obtained from any permit issuing authority as listed in Section 5 and will be valid for the time necessary to complete the operation or the vehicle leaves the state, whichever occurs first. Border-line operations requiring trips across the state line will not invalidate a permit. The seasonal permit will be valid for no more than 90 days from date of issuance.
(e) Separate permits will be required for each season. The fee for oversize will be fifteen dollars ($15.00). For vehicles exceeding 15 feet wide, 15 feet high or a single unit in excess of 75 feet a computation of mileage will be required and additional fees computed at three cents ($.03) Per foot or fraction thereof for each mile traveled on the highways. The fee for overweight will be a minimum of twenty-five dollars ($25.00). The overweight fee is computed at the rate of four cents ($.04) Per ton mile on weight exceeding the statutory limit.
(f) Oversize or overweight permits will be issued only for vehicles or loads meeting non-divisible load requirements. The hauling of combine headers side-by-side at widths exceeding eight and one-half (8 1/2) feet will be allowed, as stated in Section 19 of these regulations.
(g) Safety regulations for oversize movements in custom agricultural operations:
(i) Movements exceeding sixteen (16) feet in width or any movement that cannot be kept to the right of the highway centerline shall require the use of properly equipped escort vehicles (as described in paragraph vii of this section) to the front and rear of the overwidth movement. Movements requiring escort vehicles will not be allowed to operate on those holidays listed in Section 8, of these regulations.
(ii) Movements regardless of size traveling at an average speed of less than twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem fully visible to the rear.
(iii) Oversize movements are confined to daylight hours (as defined in Section 3) and when travel conditions are favorable. During daylight hours when any vehicle having a load which extends beyond its sides or more than four (4) feet beyond its rear, shall display red or fluorescent orange flags, not less than twelve (12) inches square, marking each corner of the load.
(iv) Overlength loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require a red lamp and red reflector on each corner of the load visible from the rear and each side so as to indicate maximum overhang. Overwidth loads authorized to travel after daylight hours will require an amber clearance light on each front corner and a red clearance light on each rear corner of the load and display a revolving amber light, amber strobe light or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least 4' in diameter on the vehicle, visible to both front and rear when loaded.
(v) All movements traveling at an average speed of less than twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) and exceeding eight and one-half (8 1/2) feet in width must in addition to the slow moving vehicle emblem display a lighted revolving flashing amber light, amber strobe light, or two (2) two-way flashing amber lights at least four (4) inches in diameter. These lights must be clearly visible at least five hundred (500) feet from the front and rear of the movement. Properly equipped escort vehicles (as described in paragraph vii of this section) or properly displayed warning signs that read 'oversize load' as described in paragraph vi of this section may be used in lieu of this lighting requirement.
(vi) Movements exceeding eight and one-half feet in width and traveling at a speed in excess of twenty-five miles per hour (25 m.p.h.) shall, in lieu of the slow-moving vehicle warning sign, display warning signs fully visible to the front and rear that read “oversize load”. The signs must be at least sixty (60) inches wide and ten (10) inches high. The signs must have a yellow background with black lettering at least eight (8) inches high painted in brush strokes one (1) inch wide, and be kept in a clean condition.
(vii) When escort vehicles are required an “oversize load” sign as described in paragraph vi of this section must be displayed and fully visible to the front of the front escort and to the rear of the rear escort. The “oversize load” signs may not cover or obscure any required lights, and shall be displayed only when actually escorting an oversize load. A red or fluorescent orange flag at least twelve (12) inches square mounted on a staff shall be displayed at each end of the “oversize load” sign. The escort vehicle’s headlights, taillights, and hazard warning flashers shall be lighted and visible during the movement. Escort vehicles shall be equipped with an outside rearview mirror on the left side. Two-way radio communication is not required for escorted movements under this section.