CHAPTER 49
SIZE, WEIGHT AND LOAD
Subchapter
A. General Provisions
B. Width, Height and Length
C. Maximum Weights of Vehicles
D. Special Permits for Excessive Size and Weight
E. Measuring and Adjusting Vehicle Size and Weight
Enactment. Chapter 49 was added June 17, 1976, P.L.162, No.81, effective July 1, 1977.
Cross References. Chapter 49 is referred to in sections 102, 1334.1, 3745.1, 6309, 6506 of this title; sections 4102, 4150 of Title 3 (Agriculture); sections 6202, 6207 of Title 27 (Environmental Resources).
SUBCHAPTER A
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec.
4901. Scope and application of chapter.
4902. Restrictions on use of highways and bridges.
4903. Securing loads in vehicles.
4904. Limits on number of towed vehicles.
4905. Safety requirements for towed vehicles.
4906. Fire apparatus and emergency vehicles.
4907. Penalty for violation of chapter.
4908. Operation of certain combinations on interstate and certain other highways.
4908.1. Operation of motor homes on interstate and certain other highways (Repealed).
4909. Transporting foodstuffs in vehicles used to transport waste.
§ 4901. Scope and application of chapter.
(a) General rule.--No vehicle, combination or load which has a size or weight exceeding the limitations provided in this chapter and no vehicle, combination or load which is not so constructed or equipped as required in this title or the regulations of the department shall be operated or moved upon any highway of this Commonwealth, unless permitted as provided in this title by the department or local authority with respect to highways and bridges under their respective jurisdictions. Failure to obtain a permit prior to the operation or movement of such a vehicle, combination or load shall subject the owner, lessee and operator of the vehicle or combination to the institution of summary criminal proceedings by citation for any violations of this part.
(b) Limitations on local regulation.--The maximum size and weight of vehicles specified in this chapter shall govern throughout this Commonwealth and local authorities shall have no power or authority to alter these limitations except as express authority may be granted in this title.
(c) Permit authorizing prohibited movement.--If an overweight or oversize movement cannot be made in any other feasible manner, the permit may authorize the movement to be made in contravention to any provision of this title provided that:
(1) the department or local authority determines that the movement is in the public interest; and
(2) the movement is escorted by certified escort vehicles as defined under section 3108 (relating to drivers of certified escort vehicles) or the Pennsylvania State Police and the following shall apply:
(i) The department, in consultation with the Pennsylvania State Police, shall determine whether a Pennsylvania State Police escort is necessary.
(ii) If it is jointly determined by the Pennsylvania State Police and the department that the movement must be escorted by the Pennsylvania State Police, the permittee shall bear the total costs of escorting the movement.
(d) Responsibility of local authorities.--Local authorities:
(1) that have adopted an ordinance under this chapter; or
(2) that establish or enforce size or weight limitations which differ from those provided for in this chapter;
have the burden and responsibility to properly administer, adhere to and enforce compliance with the requirements of this chapter and the regulations of the department. Failure of a local authority to properly administer, adhere to or enforce the substantive requirements of this chapter and the department's regulations shall subject the local authority to penalties set forth under section 4907 (relating to penalty for violation of chapter).
(e) Definition.--As used in this section, the term "extra-duty Pennsylvania State Police" means sworn members of the Pennsylvania State Police performing escort duty outside of their regularly scheduled shift on an overtime basis.
(Dec. 7, 1994, P.L.820, No.115, eff. imd.; Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.411, No.33, eff. 60 days; Dec. 9, 2002, P.L.1278, No.152, eff. 60 days; Oct. 30, 2015, P.L.216, No.55, eff. 60 days)
2015 Amendment. Act 55 amended subsec. (c).
2002 Amendment. Act 152 amended subsec. (c) and added subsec. (e).
2001 Amendment. Act 33 added subsec. (d).
1994 Amendments. Acts 115 and 172 amended subsec. (a). The amendments by Acts 115 and 172 are identical and therefore have been merged.
Cross References. Section 4901 is referred to in section 4962 of this title.
§ 4902. Restrictions on use of highways and bridges.
(a) Restrictions based on condition of highway or bridge.--
(1) The Commonwealth and local authorities with respect to highways and bridges under their jurisdictions may prohibit the operation of vehicles and may impose restrictions as to the weight or size of vehicles operated upon a highway or bridge only when they determine by conducting an engineering and traffic study as provided for in department regulations that the highway or bridge may be damaged or destroyed unless use by vehicles is prohibited or the permissible size or weight of vehicles is reduced.
(2) School buses, emergency vehicles and vehicles making local deliveries or pickups may be exempted from restrictions on the use of highways imposed under this subsection.
(2.1) Government-owned vehicles, vehicles of local government agency contractors providing material for maintenance and department contractors engaged in or providing material for construction or maintenance shall be exempted from restrictions on the use of highways, except bridges, imposed under this subsection in accordance with department regulations. The following types of documents shall constitute evidence that a vehicle is traveling to or from a site in accordance with this paragraph:
(i) A bill of lading.
(ii) A shipping order.
(iii) A service order or other document that indicates the address of the site and purpose of the trip.
(3) The department may issue a statement of policy, which shall take effect upon publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, adopting an appropriate methodology to provide letters of local determination that identify particular vehicles, routes or uses as local in nature.
(4) The methodology under paragraph (3) may allow for exemptions from 67 Pa. Code Ch. 189 (relating to hauling in excess of posted weight limit) related to the at-risk industry of logging or other forest products experiencing a 20% decline in Statewide employment between March 2002 and March 2011, as determined by the Department of Labor and Industry.
(5) The exemptions and related requirements under paragraph (4) may remain in existence only until December 31, 2028. Exemptions for local delivery or pickup may not include traffic going to or coming from a site at which minerals, natural gas or natural resources are developed, harvested or extracted, notwithstanding whether the site is located at a residence, a commercial site or on farmland. Delivery or pickup of logs or other forest products to or from permanent processing mills located on or reachable only through posted highways shall be considered local delivery or pickup. Delivery or pickup of coal to or from permanent coal reprocessing or preparation plants located on or reachable only through posted highways and not on the same posted highway as a site at which coal is extracted shall be considered local delivery or pickup.
(b) Restrictions based on traffic conditions.--The Commonwealth and local authorities with respect to highways and bridges under their jurisdictions may prohibit the operation of vehicles and may impose restrictions as to the weight or size of vehicles operated upon a highway or bridge whenever they determine that hazardous traffic conditions or other safety factors require such a prohibition or restriction. School buses, emergency vehicles and vehicles making local deliveries or pickups may be exempted from restrictions on the use of highways imposed under this subsection.
(c) Permits and security.--
(1) The Commonwealth and local authorities may issue permits for movement of vehicles of size and weight in excess of restrictions promulgated under subsections (a) and (b) with respect to highways and bridges under their jurisdiction and may require such agreement or security as they deem necessary to cover the cost of repairs and restoration necessitated by the permitted movement of vehicles. In reference to subsection (a), the Commonwealth and local authorities shall not refuse to issue a permit with respect to a highway under their jurisdiction if there is no reasonable alternate route available. For purposes of this section, "reasonable alternate route" shall mean a route meeting the criteria set forth in department regulations relating to traffic and engineering studies.
(2) The department may establish the types of permits to be issued and agreements to be entered into, subject to the following:
(i) Permits may be for long-term or short-term use of the posted highways.
(ii) The department may require multiple vehicles traveling to or from a single destination to operate pursuant to a single permit.
(iii) The department may establish a permit type allowing the posting authority to determine that damage to the posted highway covered by the permit will be minimal. This type of permit may include categories based on the number and kinds of loads expected, including a category providing that use of the posted highway under a single minimum-use permit of less than 700 loads per year shall not require an agreement or security. The department may alter the 700 loads per year minimum-use threshold if it determines the structural capacity of the State highways can accept a higher or lower amount of over-posted weight traffic. The department may express the threshold as a loads-per-day, loads-per-week or loads-per-month number.
(iv) The department may restrict use of de minimis and minimum-use permits during thaw periods as determined by the department.
(v) The department shall exclude hauling related to unconventional oil and gas development from minimum-use status based on its disproportionate and qualitatively different impact upon highways and bridges.
(3) The department shall promulgate regulations to implement this section. During the two years immediately following the effective date of this section, the department may promulgate temporary regulations, which shall expire no later than three years following the effective date of this paragraph or upon promulgation of final regulations, whichever occurs first. Temporary regulations promulgated by the department under this paragraph shall not be subject to any of the following:
(i) Sections 201, 202 and 203 of the act of July 31, 1968 (P.L.769, No.240), referred to as the Commonwealth Documents Law.
(ii) The Act of June 25, 1982 (P.L.633, No.181), known as the Regulatory Review Act.
(d) Designation of alternate routes.--
(1) In conjunction with the exercise of the powers set forth in subsections (a) and (b), the Commonwealth may designate alternate routes for vehicles in excess of specified weights or sizes. Such alternate routes may utilize portions of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
(2) In conjunction with the exercise of the powers set forth in subsection (c), when refusing to issue a permit with respect to a highway under their jurisdiction, the Commonwealth and local authorities may conduct or cause to be conducted an alternate route study. The elements of an engineering and traffic study conducted to designate an alternate route pursuant to this section shall consist of the same elements found in department regulations.
(e) Erection of signs.--The Commonwealth and local authorities shall erect or cause to be erected and maintained restriction signs designating the restrictions within 25 feet of each end of a bridge or portion of highway restricted as provided in subsection (a) or (b). In the case of a restriction on a bridge or on a highway which does not begin or end at an intersection with an unrestricted highway, the Commonwealth or local authorities shall also place an advance informational sign at the intersection nearest each end of the restricted bridge or portion of highway which would allow drivers to avoid the restricted bridge or portion of highway. No person shall be convicted of violating subsection (a) or (b) unless the restriction sign designating the restricted bridge or portion of highway to traffic moving in the direction the person was driving was posted as required in this subsection. However, failure to post the restriction sign designating the restricted bridge or portion of highway to traffic moving in the opposite direction or failure to post any advance informational sign shall not constitute a defense to a violation of this section.
(f) Actions to be in accordance with department regulations.--All actions taken under authority of this section shall be taken in accordance with department regulations.
(f.1) Local ordinances superseded.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, local authorities are prohibited from enacting or enforcing ordinances inconsistent with the provisions contained in this section.
(g) Penalty.--
(1) Any person operating a vehicle or combination upon a highway or bridge in violation of a prohibition or restriction imposed under subsection (a) is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $75, except that any person convicted of operating a vehicle with a gross weight in excess of a posted weight shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $150 plus $150 for each 500 pounds, or part thereof, in excess of 3,000 pounds over the maximum allowable weight.
(2) Any person operating a vehicle or combination in violation of a prohibition or restriction imposed under subsection (b) is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of not more than $500.
(h) (Reserved).
(i) Authority to conduct investigations and audits.--The Commonwealth and local authorities may conduct or cause to be conducted an investigation and audit of a person or entity to determine if there has been a violation of this section, pertinent regulation or agreement. Audits shall be limited to proper usage of letters of local determination and de minimis and minimum-use permits.
(j) Authority to suspend, revoke or deny permits.--The Commonwealth and local authorities may suspend, revoke or deny a permit and agreement if it is determined by the Commonwealth or a local authority that there has been a violation of this section, pertinent regulation or agreement, notwithstanding any other provision of this section.
(June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.411, No.33, eff. 60 days; May 11, 2006, P.L.161, No.38, eff. 60 days; Nov. 25, 2013, P.L.974, No.89, eff. imd.; Oct. 24, 2018, P.L.725, No.115, eff. imd; Oct. 24, 2018, P.L.881, No.138, eff. 60 days; July 11, 2022, P.L.1591, No.91, eff. 60 days)
2022 Amendment. Act 91 amended subsec. (a)(5) and added subsec. (a)(2.1).
2018 Amendments. Acts 115 and 138 amended subsec. (a)(4) and (5). The amendments by Acts 115 and 138 are identical and therefore have been merged.
2013 Amendment. Act 89 amended subsecs. (a) and (c) and added subsecs. (h), (i) and (j). See the preamble to Act 89 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative findings and declarations.
2006 Amendment. Act 38 amended subsec. (g)(2).
Cross References. Section 4902 is referred to in sections 4943, 4963, 6506 of this title.
§ 4903. Securing loads in vehicles.
(a) General rule.--No vehicle shall be driven or moved on any highway unless the vehicle is so constructed or loaded as to prevent any of its load from dropping, sifting, leaking or otherwise escaping.
(b) Fastening load.--Every load on a vehicle shall be fastened so as to prevent the load or covering from becoming loose, detached or in any manner a hazard to other users of the highway.
(c) Load of logs.--
(1) Every load of logs on a vehicle shall be securely fastened with binders, chains or straps and, in the case of an open-body or stake-body vehicle, trailer or semitrailer there shall be a sufficient number of vertical metal stakes or posts securely attached on each side of the vehicle, trailer or semitrailer at least as high as the top of the load to secure such load in the event of a failure of the binders, chains or straps.
(2) A load of logs which are greater than six feet in length must be secured by three binders for each stack of logs, except that, if the stacks are tiered so that one stack rests upon the bottom stack or stacks, a total of three binders is necessary for that tiered combination.
(3) A load of logs which are six feet or less in length must be secured by two binders for each stack of logs, except that, if the stacks are tiered so that one stack rests upon the bottom stack or stacks, a total of three binders is necessary for that tiered combination.
(4) A tiered combination which includes logs which are greater than six feet and logs which are six feet or less shall be governed by paragraph (2).
(c.1) Load of loose garbage.--Every load of loose, nonbaled garbage, waste, refuse or rubbish being transported through or within this Commonwealth shall be transported in a vehicle with four solid sides and with a cover or top of a type to prevent any of the load from escaping. The cover or top shall remain tightly in place going to a disposal site. The load shall be no higher than the solid sides of the vehicle. It is imperative that all garbage, waste, refuse or rubbish be removed from the vehicle at the disposal site to prevent any scattering of litter on the highway during the return trip. No truck, trailer or semitrailer with an open body or stake body shall be used for such purposes. This subsection shall not apply to vehicles engaged in the systematic collection of garbage or refuse and which are designed to be open in the rear for the loading of garbage or refuse.
(c.2) Load of baled garbage.--Garbage, municipal waste, waste, refuse or rubbish in a tightly compacted and baled form being transported through or within this Commonwealth shall be securely fastened to the vehicle and covered over all exposed areas by being placed within a woven bag or with a canvas cover or cover of a comparable type. If a canvas cover or cover of a comparable type is used, the cover shall be securely attached to the underside of all sides of the truck, trailer or semitrailer by straps. A woven bag, canvas cover or cover of a comparable type shall have the purpose of preventing any of the material from the bales from escaping. No part of any bale shall be uncovered, except for inspection, at any time during transportation within or through this Commonwealth until arrival at the disposal site.
(c.3) Load of equipment with hydraulically operated boom arm.--The boom arm of equipment with a hydraulically operated boom arm being transported through or within this Commonwealth shall be securely fastened to the vehicle with steel restraining devices to prevent its movement or shifting during transit.
(d) Establishment of standards for fastening devices.--The department may promulgate regulations establishing minimum standards governing types and numbers of devices to be used in securing loads to prevent spillage and leakage of a load while in transit.
(e) Exceptions.--This section does not prohibit:
(1) the necessary spreading of any substance in highway maintenance or construction operations; or
(2) the shedding or dropping of feathers or other matter from vehicles hauling live or slaughtered birds or animals.
(f) Penalty for violation of subsection (a), (b) or (c).--A person who owns or who operates a vehicle in violation of subsection (a), (b) or (c) and, as a result of the violation, any item, piece, fragment or part of the load escapes and causes injury to a person or damage to another vehicle or other property commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than $300 nor more than $1,000. A violation of subsection (a), (b) or (c) which does not result in injury to a person or damage to another vehicle or other property constitutes a summary offense, punishable by a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $300.
(g) Penalty for violation of subsection (c.1) or (c.2).--A person who owns or who operates a vehicle in violation of subsection (c.1) or (c.2) commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than $300 nor more than $1,000. Notwithstanding the provisions of 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 3571 (relating to Commonwealth portion of fines, etc.) and 3573 (relating to municipal corporation portion of fines, etc.), disposition of any fine collected for a violation of subsection (c.1) or (c.2) shall be as follows:
(1) Unless paragraph (2) applies, the fine collected shall be paid to the Commonwealth for deposit into the Motor License Fund.
(2) If the county where the offense was committed has a litter control program approved by the department, 50% of the fine collected shall be paid to the county for expenditure in the approved litter control program; and 50% of the fine collected shall be paid to the Commonwealth for deposit into the Motor License Fund.
(Mar. 13, 1990, P.L.69, No.14, eff. imd.; July 11, 1996, P.L.660, No.115, eff. 60 days; Nov. 26, 2008, P.L.1658, No.133, eff. 60 days; July 11, 2022, P.L.1591, No.91, eff. 60 days)
2022 Amendment. Act 91 amended subsec. (c.2).
2008 Amendment. Act 133 added subsec. (c.3).
1996 Amendment. Act 115 amended subsec. (c).
1990 Amendment. Act 14 added subsecs. (c.1), (c.2), (f) and (g). See section 6 of Act 14 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to construction of Act 14.
Cross References. Section 4903 is referred to in sections 3329, 3716 of this title.
§ 4904. Limits on number of towed vehicles.
(a) General rule.--No motor vehicle shall be operated upon a highway towing more than one other vehicle except as otherwise provided in this section.
(b) Farm tractors.--Farm tractors may tow no more than two other vehicles when engaged in agricultural operations.
(c) Towing vehicles requiring service.--
(1) A dolly not exceeding ten feet in length may be towed by a motor vehicle for the purpose of towing another vehicle requiring service.
(2) A combination requiring emergency service may be towed to a nearby garage or other place of safety.
(d) Saddle-mount operations.--Not more than three truck tractors, empty trucks or chassis therefor, may be towed by a truck tractor, truck or the chassis thereof, provided that only the rear wheels of the drawn vehicles shall touch the road surface and the overall length of the combination does not exceed 75 feet.
(e) Two-trailer combinations on interstate and certain other highways.--Combinations consisting of a truck tractor and two trailers may be driven only as described in section 4908 (relating to operation of certain combinations on interstate and certain other highways).
(f) Tow dollies and converter gears.--A tow dolly or converter gear may be towed by a motor vehicle for the purpose of towing another vehicle, provided the combination meets all requirements of section 4905 (relating to safety requirements for towed vehicles) and separate lighting equipment is displayed on the rear of a towed motor vehicle. A converter gear may also be towed empty behind a combination consisting of a truck tractor and semitrailer.
(g) Combinations permitted under section 4965(2).--Combinations permitted only to cross a highway to get from one commercial or industrial facility to another under section 4965(2) (relating to single permits for multiple highway crossings) may consist of more than two units as long as the dimensions and gross axle and wheel weight of the combination and loads do not exceed the maximums specified in this chapter.
(h) Certain combinations permitted under section 4968.--Combinations consisting of a truck and one trailer or a truck tractor and one trailer which exceeds the maximum vehicle lengths authorized in section 4923 (relating to length of vehicles) and which shall not exceed 102 inches in width, or a truck tractor and no more than two trailers, each trailer of which shall not exceed 102 inches in width and 28 1/2 feet in length may be operated under a permit issued under section 4968 (relating to permit for movement during course of manufacture).
(i) Portable traffic control signals or devices.--Portable traffic control signals mounted upon a trailer not exceeding 3,000 pounds gross vehicle weight may be operated in tandem as long as the length of the two trailers combined does not exceed 300 inches and the trailers are designed by the manufacturer to be able to be towed in tandem on public roadways.
(July 1, 1981, P.L.197, No.60, eff. imd.; July 7, 1983, P.L.32, No.19, eff. imd.; July 11, 1985, P.L.204, No.52, eff. 90 days; Nov. 29, 1985, P.L.316, No.81, eff. 60 days; July 9, 1986, P.L.544, No.96, eff. 60 days; Feb. 10, 1994, P.L.10, No.2, eff. imd.; Apr. 17, 1997, P.L.6, No.3, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1307, No.163, eff. 60 days)
2012 Amendment. Act 163 added subsec. (i).
1997 Amendment. Act 3 amended subsec. (e).
1994 Amendment. Act 2 amended subsec. (d).
1986 Amendment. Act 96 amended subsec. (h).
1985 Amendment. Act 52 added subsec. (g).
1983 Amendment. Act 19 added subsecs. (e) and (f). See section 7 of Act 19 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to expiration of amendments authorizing two trailers and long combinations.
1981 Amendment. Act 60 amended subsec. (c).
Cross References. Section 4904 is referred to in section 4908 of this title.
§ 4905. Safety requirements for towed vehicles.
(a) Connecting devices and distances.--When one vehicle is towing another, the connection shall be of sufficient strength to pull all weight towed. The distance between the vehicles shall not exceed 15 feet except between any two vehicles transporting poles, pipes, machinery or other objects of a structural nature such that they cannot readily be dismembered.
(b) Red flags and lights.--If the distance between the vehicles exceeds five feet, a red flag or cloth not less than 12 inches square shall be displayed upon the connection centered between the vehicles. During hours of darkness a red light shall be displayed at the same position in lieu of the flag or cloth.
(c) Deflection of trailer wheels.--Every trailer shall be attached to the vehicle drawing it so as to prevent the wheels of the trailer from deflecting more than six inches from the path of the drawing vehicle's wheels.
(d) Safety chains.--Whenever two vehicles are connected by a ball-and-socket type hitch, or pintle hook without a locking device, they shall also be connected by two safety chains of equal length, each safety chain having an ultimate strength at least equal to the gross weight of the towed vehicles. The safety chains shall be crossed and connected to the towed and towing vehicle and to the tow bar so as to prevent the tow bar from dropping to the ground in the event the tow bar fails or becomes disconnected. The safety chains shall have no more slack than is necessary to permit proper turning.
(e) Obstructed lighting equipment.--Whenever the rear running lights, stop lights, turn signals or hazard warning lights required by the provisions of Chapter 43 (relating to lighting equipment) are obstructed by the load on a vehicle or by a towed vehicle or its load, lighting equipment shall be displayed on the rear of the towed vehicle or load equivalent to the obstructed lights or signals, except in the case of implements of husbandry or commercial implements of husbandry displaying the slow-moving vehicle emblem and operating between sunrise and sunset.
(f) Penalty for violation of subsection (e).--
(1) A person who operates a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in section 1603 (relating to definitions), in violation of subsection (e) commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $300 for each violation.
(2) A person who operates a motor vehicle other than a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in section 1603, in violation of subsection (e) commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $100.
(June 23, 1981, P.L.98, No.35, eff. 60 days; Dec. 18, 1992, P.L.1411, No.174, eff. 60 days; Dec. 20, 1995, P.L.669, No.75, eff. 120 days)
1995 Amendment. Act 75 added subsec. (f).
1992 Amendment. Act 174 amended subsec. (e).
Cross References. Section 4905 is referred to in section 4904 of this title.
§ 4906. Fire apparatus and emergency vehicles.
This chapter does not apply to fire apparatus being operated on the highway unless specifically provided otherwise. The weight requirements of this chapter do not apply to emergency vehicles as defined in 23 U.S.C. § 127(r)(2) (relating to vehicle weight limitations-Interstate System). In lieu of the weight requirements of this chapter, the requirements of 23 U.S.C. § 127(r)(1) shall apply to emergency vehicles.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.342, No.31, eff. 60 days)
§ 4907. Penalty for violation of chapter.
(a) General rule.--Any person violating any provision of this chapter for which a penalty is not otherwise provided commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $300 for each violation.
(b) Penalty for violation of permit.--Any person whose vehicle, combination or load is in violation of or not in compliance with any condition of a permit and any person who violates or fails to comply with any condition of a permit while operating or transporting a vehicle, combination or load, in addition to any other violation prohibited by this chapter, commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $500 for each violation.
(c) Penalty for violation of multijurisdictional permit.--Any person who violates or fails to comply with any provision of a permit issued under section 6146.1 (relating to multijurisdictional permit agreement), in addition to any other violation prohibited by this title, commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $500 for each violation.
(d) Penalty for operation with an invalid permit.--Any person who operates or moves an oversize or overweight vehicle, combination or load with an expired, void or invalidated permit, in addition to any other violation prohibited by this chapter, commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $1,000 for each violation.
(e) Failure to properly administer, adhere to and enforce the requirements of this chapter.--When it is determined in a summary proceeding that a local authority has failed to comply with any of the requirements of this chapter or the department's concomitant regulations, the following shall occur:
(1) The local authority shall be liable for the costs for scheduling and conducting the proceeding and for the reasonable costs incurred to respond to and defend against the charges. The costs shall be assessed by the magisterial district judge and payable within 30 days of assessment.
(2) The local authority shall forfeit any right of recovery for the cost of any repairs and restoration necessitated by the movement of vehicles upon highways or bridges.
(Dec. 7, 1994, P.L.820, No.115, eff. imd.; Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.411, No.33, eff. 60 days; Nov. 30, 2004, P.L.1618, No.207, eff. 60 days)
2004 Amendment. Act 207 amended subsec. (e)(1). See section 29 of Act 207 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to construction of law.
2001 Amendment. Act 33 added subsec. (e).
Cross References. Section 4907 is referred to in section 4901 of this title.
§ 4908. Operation of certain combinations on interstate and certain other highways.
(a) General rule.--Combinations authorized by section 4904(e) (relating to limits on number of towed vehicles) to have two trailers may be driven only on the types of highways and under the limitations set forth below:
(1) On the designated national network consisting of all interstate highways and portions of Federal aid primary highways having at least a 48-foot-wide roadway or two 24-foot-wide roadways and designated by the department as capable of safely accommodating such vehicles.
(2) Between the designated national network and a terminal or a facility for food, fuel, repair or rest having an entrance within the access limitation prescribed by Federal Highway Administration regulation of the nearest ramp or intersection, but only on highways having lanes at least ten feet wide.
(3) On highways marked with traffic route signs having travel lanes at least ten feet in width unless prohibited by the department on State highways or the municipality on local highways based on safety reasons and marked with signs prohibiting such vehicles.
(4) Between the highways authorized under paragraph (3) and a terminal or facility for food, fuel, repair or rest having an entrance within one-half road mile of the nearest ramp or intersection, but only on highways having lanes at least ten feet wide.
(5) Approval of a highway other than as designated under paragraphs (1) through (4) shall be obtained from the:
(i) City in the case of a highway in a city.
(ii) Department in the case of a State highway not in a city, except that the department will, upon request, delegate authority to approve routes under this subsection to a municipality which has been delegated authority to issue permits under section 420 of the act of June 1, 1945 (P.L.1242, No.428), known as the State Highway Law.
(iii) Municipality in the case of a local highway not in a city.
(b) Household goods carriers.--In addition to the operations authorized in subsection (a), a household goods carrier, consisting of a truck tractor and two trailers may be driven between the designated national network and a point of loading or unloading which can safely and reasonably be accessed using highways approved under subsection (a)(2) through (5) for the particular movement.
(1) (Deleted by amendment).
(2) (Deleted by amendment).
(b.1) Short 102-inch trailers.--(Deleted by amendment).
(c) Nearby terminals and facilities.--(Deleted by amendment).
(d) Route approval.--(Deleted by amendment).
(e) Notice.--
(1) The department shall publish the designated network established in subsection (a)(1) in the Pennsylvania Bulletin as a notice under 45 Pa.C.S. § 725(a)(3) (relating to additional contents of Pennsylvania Bulletin) and will also forward the designated network to trucking companies and associations and other interested parties, upon request.
(2) Approval of a route under subsection (a)(5) shall be effective upon notice by the approving authority to the person who requested it. Notice of the approval shall also be given to State and affected local police and shall be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin in a timely manner as a notice under 45 Pa.C.S. § 725(a)(3).
(3) Approval of a route under subsection (b)(2) shall be effective upon notice by the approving authority to the person who requested it. Notice of the approval shall also be given to State and affected local police and shall be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin in a timely manner.
(f) Revocation of route approval.--The authority which approved a route under subsection (a)(5) may revoke the route approval if it determines that the route or some portion of it cannot safely and reasonably accommodate combinations authorized to exceed length or number of trailer limitations. Notice of the revocation shall be published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin as a notice under 45 Pa.C.S. § 725(a)(3) and shall be effective 15 days after such publication, except that the posting authority may effect an earlier revocation by posting signs to indicate the revocation. Written notice of the revocation shall also be given to the person who requested the route approval and to State and affected local police.
(g) Penalty.--A person who operates a combination in violation of this section on a highway which is not marked with signs prohibiting the operation of such a combination commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $50 for each violation. A person cited under this subsection shall not be subject to citation under section 4904.
(July 7, 1983, P.L.32, No.19, eff. imd.; Dec. 11, 1986, P.L.1530, No.166, eff. 60 days; Feb. 10, 1994, P.L.10, No.2, eff. imd.; Apr. 17, 1997, P.L.6, No.3, eff. 60 days; June 12, 2018, P.L.204, No.31, eff. 180 days)
2018 Amendment. Act 31 amended subsecs. (a) intro. par., (b) and (g) and deleted subsec. (b.1).
1983 Amendment. See section 7 of Act 19 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to expiration of amendments authorizing two trailers and long combinations.
Cross References. Section 4908 is referred to in section 4904 of this title.
§ 4908.1. Operation of motor homes on interstate and certain other highways (Repealed).
2018 Repeal. Section 4908.1 was repealed June 12, 2018, P.L.204, No.31, effective in 180 days.
§ 4909. Transporting foodstuffs in vehicles used to transport waste.
(a) Offense defined.--
(1) A person commits a violation of this section if he transports or knowingly provides a vehicle for the transportation of any food product or produce intended for human consumption in a vehicle which has been used to transport any municipal, residual or hazardous waste or any chemical or liquid, in bulk, which is not a food product or produce.
(2) A person commits a violation of this section if he knowingly accepts any food product or produce from, or provides any food product or produce to, a vehicle used to transport any municipal, residual or hazardous waste or any chemical or liquid, in bulk, which is not a food product or produce.
(b) Penalties.--
(1) A person who violates subsection (a)(1) shall, upon conviction for the first offense, pay a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000. Upon the second or subsequent conviction of subsection (a)(1), a person shall pay a fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $25,000, or the court shall order the operating privilege of the vehicle operator suspended for a period of up to one year, or both. A copy of the order shall be transmitted to the department.
(2) A person who violates subsection (a)(2) shall, upon conviction for the first offense, pay a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000. A person who violates subsection (a)(2) shall, upon the second or subsequent conviction, pay a fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $25,000.
(c) Vehicle forfeiture.--Any vehicle or conveyance used in the commission of an offense under this section shall be deemed contraband and forfeited in accordance with 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 5803 (relating to asset forfeiture), 5805 (relating to forfeiture procedure), 5806 (relating to motion for return of property), 5807 (relating to restrictions on use), 5807.1 (relating to prohibition on adoptive seizures) and 5808 (relating to exceptions).
(d) Responsibility for cost.--The owner of any vehicle or conveyance forfeited under subsection (c) shall be responsible for any costs incurred in properly disposing of waste in the vehicle or conveyance.
(e) Environmental Quality Board.--The Environmental Quality Board shall have the power and its duty shall be to adopt regulations, if necessary, to carry out the requirements of this section. Regulations, if necessary, shall be proposed within 90 days.
(f) Emergency telephone number.--The Pennsylvania State Police shall establish or designate a toll-free telephone number to report violations of illegal hauling.
(g) Definitions.--As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings given to them in this subsection:
"Food product or produce." Any raw, cooked or processed edible substance, beverage or ingredient used or intended for use or for sale, in whole or in part, for human consumption.
"In bulk." Not divided into parts or packaged in separate units.
"Municipal waste," "residual waste" or "hazardous waste." The terms shall have the meanings given to them under the act of July 7, 1980 (P.L.380, No.97), known as the Solid Waste Management Act, and the act of July 28, 1988 (P.L.556, No.101), known as the Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act.
(Mar. 13, 1990, P.L.69, No.14, eff. imd.; June 29, 2017, P.L.247, No.13, eff. July 1, 2017)
2017 Amendment. Act 13 amended subsec. (c).
1990 Amendment. Act 14 added section 4909. See section 6 of Act 14 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to construction of act.
Environmental Quality Board. Section 502(c) of Act 18 of 1995, which created the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and renamed the Department of Environmental Protection, provided that the Environmental Quality Board shall have the powers and duties currently vested in it, except as vested in the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources by Act 18 of 1995, which powers and duties include those set forth in section 4909.
Cross References. Section 4909 is referred to in section 5803 of Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure).
SUBCHAPTER B
WIDTH, HEIGHT AND LENGTH
Sec.
4921. Width of vehicles.
4922. Height of vehicles.
4923. Length of vehicles.
4924. Limitations on length of projecting loads.
4925. Width of projecting loads on passenger vehicles.
Cross References. Subchapter B is referred to in sections 4961, 4962, 4968, 4970, 4977, 4978, 4979.4 of this title.
§ 4921. Width of vehicles.
(a) General rule.--The total outside width of a vehicle, including any load, shall not exceed eight feet six inches except as otherwise provided in this section.
(b) Special vehicles.--The following paragraphs determine widths for special vehicles, with each paragraph specifically controlling its own subject matter in the event of a conflict with another paragraph:
(1) Any implement of husbandry or vehicle loaded with crops or nutrients and not exceeding 12 feet in width may be driven, hauled or towed between sunrise and sunset on highways other than freeways.
(2) Any implement of husbandry not exceeding 14 feet 6 inches in width may be driven, hauled or towed without any restriction as to time on highways other than freeways in accordance with the following:
(i) (Reserved).
(ii) The implement may be driven, hauled or towed within 50 miles of any farm owned or operated by the owner of the implement of husbandry.
(iii) The implement may be driven, hauled or towed between:
(A) farms; or
(B) a farm owned or operated by a farmer and a place of business of a mechanic or dealer in implements of husbandry;
located not more than 150 miles away for the purpose of buying, selling, trading, loaning and leasing, demonstrating, repairing or servicing the implement of husbandry.
(iv) When driven, hauled or towed between sunset and sunrise, the implement of husbandry shall have and operate at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or yellow strobe light, which shall be mounted to provide visibility to vehicles approaching from any direction, 360° visibility, regardless of the method of mounting and hazard signal lamps.
(2.1) Any implement of husbandry exceeding 14 feet 6 inches and not exceeding 18 feet in width may be driven, hauled or towed between sunrise and sunset on highways other than freeways if the implement of husbandry is covered by financial responsibility under paragraph (2.2)(vi) and is preceded by a pilot vehicle that displays an "oversize load" sign on the front of the vehicle and has continuously activated hazard signal lamps. The implement of husbandry shall have and operate at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or yellow strobe light, which shall be mounted to provide visibility to vehicles approaching from any direction, 360° visibility, regardless of the method of mounting and hazard signal lamps. Implements subject to this paragraph may be driven, hauled or towed:
(i) Within 50 miles of any farm owned or operated by the owner of the implement of husbandry.
(ii) Between:
(A) farms; or
(B) a farm owned or operated by a farmer and a place of business of a mechanic or dealer in implements of husbandry;
located not more than 150 miles away for the purpose of buying, selling, trading, loaning and leasing, demonstrating, repairing or servicing the implement of husbandry with at least five business days' prior notice to the department by telephone. In cases of emergency repair or servicing, advance notice is not required.
(2.2) An implement of husbandry exceeding 14 feet 6 inches and not exceeding 18 feet in width may be driven, hauled or towed, and may be preceded by a pilot vehicle that displays an "oversize load" sign on the front of the vehicle and has continuously activated hazard signal lamps, on highways other than freeways between sunset and sunrise within 25 miles of any farm owned or operated by the owner of the implement of husbandry if all of the following are met:
(i) the implement of husbandry is equipped with reflective edgemarks or lights to identify the outermost edges of the rear and front of the implement that are visible from the front, the rear and, as is practicable, from each side;
(ii) the implement of husbandry shall have and operate at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or yellow strobe light, which shall be mounted to provide visibility to vehicles approaching from any direction, 360° visibility, regardless of the method of mounting, and hazard signal lamps;
(iii) the implement of husbandry is not driven, hauled or towed at a speed greater than 25 miles per hour;
(iv) the implement of husbandry is driven, hauled or towed by a person who is at least 18 years of age;
(v) the implement of husbandry is followed by a vehicle that is displaying an "oversize load" sign on the rear of the vehicle and is operating continuously activated hazard signal lamps; and
(vi) the implement of husbandry is covered by the minimum levels of liability insurance coverage on the vehicle as are required to be maintained under Chapter 17 (relating to financial responsibility) by owners of registered motor vehicles. The requirement of this subparagraph shall be met if the minimum amounts of liability insurance coverage for the implement of husbandry have been provided under farm liability insurance coverage maintained generally by the owner. Coverage prescribed under Subchapter B of Chapter 17 (relating to motor vehicle liability insurance first party benefits) shall not be required to be maintained or provided for the implement of husbandry.
(3) Special mobile equipment not exceeding nine feet two inches in width may be driven, hauled or towed between sunrise and sunset on highways other than freeways.
(4) The department may regulate the operation of special vehicles subject to this subsection which regulations may prohibit the operation of special vehicles on certain days or during certain hours.
(4.1) A vehicle not exceeding 14 feet 6 inches in width may be towed by an implement of husbandry exempt from registration under section 1302(2.1) and (2.2) (relating to vehicles exempt from registration) without any restriction as to time on highways other than freeways, if all of the following apply:
(i) The implement towing the vehicle is being operated in accordance with subsection (a) or this subsection.
(ii) The towed vehicle, when towed between sunset and sunrise, has and operates at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or yellow strobe light, which shall be mounted to provide visibility to vehicles approaching from any direction, 360 degree visibility, regardless of the method of mounting and hazard signal lamps.
(5) An implement of husbandry or vehicle used for crops or nutrients and not exceeding 14 feet 6 inches in width may be operated on highways other than freeways between sunset and sunrise. The implement or vehicle, when used at this time, shall have and operate at least one flashing or revolving yellow light or strobe light, which shall be mounted to provide visibility to vehicles approaching from any direction, 360-degree visibility, regardless of the method of mounting, and hazard signals.
(6) Except as provided in paragraph (6.1), commercial implements of husbandry not exceeding 12 feet in width, including wheels and tires, may be driven, hauled or towed between sunrise and sunset on highways other than freeways.
(6.1) A commercial implement of husbandry not exceeding 12 feet in width, including wheels and tires, may be driven between sunrise and sunset on a freeway, not including the Pennsylvania Turnpike or an interstate highway, subject to all of the following:
(i) The commercial implement of husbandry is capable of reaching speeds of at least 40 miles per hour and maintains a speed of at least 40 miles per hour at all times when being driven on the freeway, unless otherwise required by this title.
(ii) The tires on the commercial implement of husbandry have a speed rating from the manufacturer of at least 40 miles per hour.
(iii) The commercial implement of husbandry is not driven for more than 30 miles on the freeway.
(iv) The commercial implement of husbandry is equipped with one or more flashing or revolving yellow lights in a manner determined by the department.
(v) The commercial implement of husbandry is driven only in the right lane of the freeway, unless as otherwise required by this title or required when exiting the freeway.
(vi) The freeway has a maximum speed limit of 65 miles per hour at the locations on which the commercial implement of husbandry is being driven.
(vii) The individual operating the commercial implement of husbandry is at least 18 years of age and has a valid driver's license.
(viii) The commercial implement of husbandry is being driven to or from a farm, or farms, and the business location of the owner of the commercial implement of husbandry.
(ix) The commercial implement of husbandry is covered by the minimum levels of liability insurance coverage on the vehicle as required under Chapter 17 by owners of registered motor vehicles.
(x) The commercial implement of husbandry is followed by a vehicle with continuously activated hazard signal lamps.
(xi) The height of the commercial implement of husbandry does not exceed the maximum height established in section 4922 (relating to height of vehicles), the length of the commercial implement of husbandry does not exceed the maximum length established in section 4923 (relating to length of vehicles) and the weight of the commercial implement of husbandry does not exceed the maximum weight established in section 4941 (relating to maximum gross weight of vehicles).
(xii) The department has not prohibited the operation of a commercial implement of husbandry on the freeway in accordance with paragraph (6.2).
(6.2) The department may prohibit the operation of a commercial implement of husbandry as authorized by paragraph (6.1) on the entirety or a portion of a freeway if the prohibition is needed to protect the safety of motorists.
(7) As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings given to them in this subsection:
"Crop." The term includes, but is not limited to:
(i) Field crops, including corn, wheat, oats, rye, barley, hay, potatoes and dry beans.
(ii) Fruits, including apples, peaches, grapes, cherries and berries.
(iii) Vegetables, including tomatoes, snap beans, cabbage, carrots, beets, onions and mushrooms.
"Nutrient." The term includes, but is not limited to:
(i) A substance or recognized plant nutrient, element or compound that is used or sold for its plant nutritive content or its claimed nutritive value.
(ii) Livestock and poultry manures and their byproducts, compost used as fertilizer, commercially manufactured chemical fertilizers, biosolids or combinations of commercially manufactured chemical biosolids.
(c) Buses.--(Deleted by amendment).
(c.1) Motor homes or recreational trailers.--(Deleted by amendment).
(c.2) Utility trailers.--(Deleted by amendment).
(c.3) Trucks other than combinations.--(Deleted by amendment).
(d) Nondivisible loads.--(Deleted by amendment).
(e) Mirrors, sunshades and tarpaulins.--Mirrors, sunshades and tarpaulins may extend beyond the maximum width of a vehicle as follows:
(1) Mirrors may extend on each side a maximum of six inches beyond the width of the vehicle, trailer or load, whichever is greater.
(2) Sunshades may extend a maximum of six inches on each side of the vehicle.
(3) Tarpaulins and the mechanical components of the devices used to secure tarpaulins may extend no more than six inches on each side of a vehicle or trailer.
(e.1) School buses.--School bus side stop signal arms, as provided for in section 4552 (relating to general requirements for school buses), may, when in an extended position displaying red visual signals while the vehicle is stopped and loading or discharging students, extend beyond the width limitation otherwise provided in this section.
(e.2) Excluded devices.--Devices listed in and meeting the requirements of 23 CFR Pt. 658 Appendix D (relating to devices that are excluded from measurement of the length or width of a commercial motor vehicle) are excluded from measurement of the width of a motor vehicle.
(e.3) Highly automated vehicles.--If a highly automated vehicle is operating on highways of this Commonwealth, a rear visibility system comprised of a set of devices or components, that together perform the function of producing the rearview image, shall be considered a mirror or a similar device to a mirror, and shall be excluded from the measurement of the width of the highly automated vehicle consistent with applicable Federal and State laws.
(f) Exceptions.--The provisions of this subchapter governing the width of vehicles do not apply to street sweepers, snow removal equipment, truck-mounted line-painting equipment and recycling equipment used under the act of July 28, 1988 (P.L.556, No.101), known as the Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act.
(July 20, 1979, P.L.168, No.55, eff. imd.; Mar. 7, 1982, P.L.152, No.49, eff. imd.; July 7, 1983, P.L.32, No.19, eff. imd.; Dec. 19, 1988, P.L.1290, No.163, eff. imd.; June 30, 1990, P.L.266, No.63, eff. imd.; Dec. 18, 1992, P.L.1411, No.174, eff. 60 days; May 20, 1993, P.L.30, No.10, eff. 60 days; July 2, 1993, P.L.408, No.58, eff. 60 days; Feb. 10, 1994, P.L.10, No.2, eff. imd.; Dec. 7, 1994, P.L.820, No.115, eff. imd.; July 11, 1996, P.L.660, No.115, eff. 60 days; Apr. 17, 1997, P.L.6, No.3, eff. 60 days; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.411, No.33, eff. 60 days; Nov. 30, 2004, P.L.1667, No.211, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1405, No.173, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1407, No.174, eff. 60 days; Nov. 1, 2012, P.L.1680, No.209, eff. 60 days; June 12, 2018, P.L.204, No.31, eff. 180 days; June 28, 2019, P.L.221, No.28, eff. 60 days; July 11, 2022, P.L.1591, No.91, eff. 60 days; Nov. 3, 2022, P.L.1946, No.130, eff. 240 days)
2022 Amendments. Act 91 amended subsec. (b)(6) and added subsec. (b)(6.1) and (6.2) and Act 130 added subsec. (e.3).
2019 Amendment. Act 28 amended subsec. (b)(2.1) and (2.2).
2018 Amendment. Act 31 amended subsec. (a), added subsec. (e.2) and deleted subsecs. (c), (c.1), (c.2), (c.3) and (d).
2012 Amendments. Act 173 amended subsec. (b) intro. par., (1) and (5) and added subsec. (b)(7), Act 174 added subsec. (b)(4.1) and Act 209 amended subsec. (b)(2) and added subsec. (b)(2.1) and (2.2).
2001 Amendment. Act 33 amended subsec. (b).
1993 Amendments. Act 10 amended subsecs. (b)(5) and (6) and (d) and Act 58 amended subsecs. (e) and (f).
1988 Amendment. Act 163 added subsec. (e.1).
Cross References. Section 4921 is referred to in section 4961 of this title.
§ 4922. Height of vehicles.
(a) General rule.--No vehicle, including any load, shall exceed a height of 13 feet 6 inches. This provision shall not be construed to require public authorities to provide sufficient vertical clearance to permit the operation of such vehicles.
(b) Buses.--Any bus operated wholly within a municipality, where permitted by the municipality, or in more than one municipality, where approved by the Public Utility Commission, may be of a total height, including load, not to exceed 14 feet 6 inches.
(c) Exceptions.--The provisions of this subchapter governing the height of vehicles do not apply to fire apparatus or to vehicles used exclusively to repair overhead lights and wires.
(d) Penalty.--Any person convicted of operating a vehicle with a height greater than 13 feet 6 inches and traveling without a valid permit shall, upon conviction, pay a fine of $500.
(Nov. 26, 2008, P.L.1658, No.133, eff. 60 days)
2008 Amendment. Act 133 added subsec. (d).
Cross References. Section 4922 is referred to in sections 4921, 4961 of this title.
§ 4923. Length of vehicles.
(a) Motor vehicles.--
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), no motor vehicle, including any load and bumpers, shall exceed an overall length of 40 feet.
(2) Paragraph (1) does not apply to the following:
(i) A motor vehicle equipped with a boom or boomlike device if the vehicle does not exceed 55 feet.
(ii) A bus, school bus or motor home which does not exceed 45 feet.
(iii) An articulated bus which does not exceed 63 feet.
(iv) An automobile or boat transporter which does not exceed 45 feet, exclusive of an overhang of not more than three feet on the front and four feet on the rear. An automobile transporter shall not be prohibited from the transport of cargo or general freight on a backhaul if the automobile transporter complies with the weight limitations for a motor vehicle.
(b) Excluded devices.--Devices listed in and meeting the requirements of 23 CFR Pt. 658 Appendix D (relating to devices that are excluded from measurement of the length or width of a commercial motor vehicle) are excluded from measurement of the length of a motor vehicle.
(b.1) Combinations.--
(1) The length of a single trailer being towed by a truck or truck tractor shall not exceed 53 feet. Truck or truck tractors towing trailers equipped with a kingpin shall not be operated when the distance between the kingpin and the center line of the rear axle or rear axle group exceeds 41 feet or, in the case of a trailer used exclusively or primarily to transport vehicles in connection with motor sports competition events, does not exceed 46 feet.
(2) For a double trailer, the length of each trailer being towed in combination by a truck tractor shall not exceed 28 1/2 feet.
(3) The overall length of the combination of a truck tractor with a conventional fifth wheel and an auto or boat transporter shall not exceed 65 feet, exclusive of an overhang of not more than three feet on the front and four feet on the rear of the combination.
(4) The overall length of a stinger-steered auto or boat transporter combination shall not exceed 80 feet, exclusive of an overhang of not more than four feet on the front and six feet on the rear of the combination. A stinger-steered automobile transporter shall not be prohibited from the transport of cargo or general freight on a backhaul if the stinger-steered automobile transporter complies with the weight limitations for a truck tractor and semitrailer combination.
(5) The overall length of a saddle-mount combination shall not exceed 75 feet.
(6) The overall length of a maxi-cube combination shall not exceed 65 feet.
(7) A combination consisting of any tow truck towing a disabled motor vehicle to a place of repairs or other place of safety.
(8) A combination transporting articles that, themselves, do not exceed 70 feet in length and are nondivisible as to length.
(9) The overall length of a towaway trailer transporter combination shall not exceed 82 feet.
(c) Definitions.--As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings given to them in this subsection:
"Automobile or boat transporter." A truck of a total length not greater than 45 feet, exclusive of an overhang of not more than three feet on the front and four feet on the rear of the vehicle configured by the manufacturer to haul either automobiles, light trucks or boats.
"Towaway trailer transporter combination." As follows:
(1) a combination of vehicles consisting of a trailer transporter towing unit and two trailers or semitrailers with a total weight that does not exceed 26,000 pounds; and
(2) the trailers or semitrailers carry no property and constitute inventory property of a manufacturer, distributor or dealer of the trailers or semitrailers.
"Trailer transporter towing unit." A power unit that is not used to carry property when operating in a towaway trailer transporter combination.
(June 6, 1979, P.L.39, No.12, eff. imd.; June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; July 1, 1981, P.L.197, No.60, eff. imd.; July 7, 1983, P.L.32, No.19, eff. imd.; Dec. 11, 1986, P.L.1530, No.166, eff. 60 days; Feb. 10, 1994, P.L.10, No.2, eff. imd.; Apr. 17, 1997, P.L.6, No.3, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. imd.; Oct. 4, 2002, P.L.845, No.123, eff. 60 days; Nov. 30, 2004, P.L.1667, No.211, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1407, No.174, eff. 60 days; June 30, 2014, P.L.814, No.85, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.342, No.31, eff. 60 days; June 12, 2018, P.L.204, No.31, eff. 180 days)
2018 Amendment. Act 31 amended subsec. (b.1)(1) and added subsec. (b).
2017 Amendment. Act 31 amended subsecs. (a)(2), (b.1) and (c).
2014 Amendment. Act 85 amended subsec. (a).
1983 Amendment. See section 7 of Act 19 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to expiration of amendments authorizing two trailers and long combinations.
Cross References. Section 4923 is referred to in sections 4904, 4924 of this title.
§ 4924. Limitations on length of projecting loads.
(a) General rule.--Subject to the provisions of this subchapter limiting the length of vehicles and loads, the load upon any vehicle or the load upon the front vehicle of a combination of vehicles shall not extend more than three feet beyond the foremost part of the vehicle, and the load upon any vehicle operated alone or the load, other than a nondivisible load, upon the rear vehicle of a combination shall not extend more than six feet beyond the rear of the bed or body of such vehicle.
(b) Red flags and lights.--If the load on any vehicle extends more than four feet beyond the rear of the vehicle, a red flag or cloth not less than 12 inches square shall be displayed at the end of the load. During hours of darkness, a red light shall be displayed in the same position in lieu of the flag or cloth.
(c) Compliance with maximum length limitations.--Subsection (a) does not permit loads to exceed the maximum limits set forth in section 4923 (relating to length of vehicles).
(d) Exceptions.--Except for subsection (b), this section does not apply to a motor vehicle specifically designed and being used to:
(1) transport roof trusses; or
(2) transport live trees for transplanting.
(Nov. 23, 1987, P.L.399, No.82, eff. 60 days; May 20, 1993, P.L.30, No.10, eff. 60 days)
1993 Amendment. Act 10 amended subsec. (d).
§ 4925. Width of projecting loads on passenger vehicles.
(a) General rule.--No passenger-type vehicle shall be operated on any highway with a load extending beyond the left side of the vehicle nor extending more than 12 inches beyond the right side of the vehicle.
(b) Exception.--This section does not apply to emergency vehicles.
SUBCHAPTER C
MAXIMUM WEIGHTS OF VEHICLES
Sec.
4941. Maximum gross weight of vehicles.
4942. Registered gross weight.
4943. Maximum axle weight of vehicles.
4944. Maximum wheel load.
4945. Penalties for exceeding maximum weights.
4946. Impoundment of vehicles for nonpayment of overweight fines (Repealed).
4947. Disposition of impounded vehicles and loads (Repealed).
4948. Maximum weight and seating capacity of buses.
4949. Application to tow trucks.
Cross References. Subchapter C is referred to in sections 4961, 4968, 4974, 4976, 4976.1, 4976.2, 4978, 4979, 4979.1, 4979.2, 4979.3, 4979.4, 4979.5, 4979.6, 4982, 6506 of this title.
§ 4941. Maximum gross weight of vehicles.
(a) General rule.--Except as provided for in subsection (d), no vehicle shall, when operated upon a highway, have a gross weight exceeding 80,000 pounds, and no combination driven upon a highway shall have a gross weight exceeding 80,000 pounds, or the applicable weight set as forth in subsection (b) or (c), whichever is less.
(b) Combination of vehicles.--No combination shall, when operated upon a highway, have a gross weight exceeding the following:
|
Combination of Vehicles |
Maximum Gross Weight In Pounds |
|
Two-axle truck tractor & single-axle semitrailer |
58,400 |
|
Two-axle truck tractor & two-axle semitrailer |
73,280 |
|
Three-axle truck tractor & single-axle semitrailer |
73,280 |
|
Two-axle truck & two-axle trailer |
73,280 |
(c) Motor vehicles.--No motor vehicle when operated upon a highway shall have a gross weight exceeding the following specified maximum gross weight for the following described motor vehicles:
|
|
Maximum Gross Weight In Pounds |
|
Two-axle motor vehicle |
38,000 |
|
Three-axle motor vehicle |
58,400 |
|
Four-axle motor vehicle |
73,280 |
|
Five-axle motor vehicle |
73,280 |
|
Six-axle motor vehicle |
77,000 |
|
Seven-axle motor vehicle |
80,000 |
(d) Natural gas and electric vehicles.--
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a vehicle that is operated by an engine fueled primarily by compressed or liquefied natural gas or powered primarily by means of electric battery power may exceed the gross vehicle weight limits imposed under this section by an amount, not to exceed a maximum of 2,000 pounds, that is equal to the difference between the weight of the vehicle attributable to the natural gas tank and fueling system or the battery or battery pack carried by the vehicle and the weight of a comparable diesel tank and fueling system.
(2) The weight exemption provided for under this subsection shall apply to all State highways and interstate highways as provided by the exemption permitted under 23 U.S.C. § 127 (relating to vehicle weight limitations-Interstate System).
(June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; Oct. 10, 1980, P.L.791, No.147, eff. imd.; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.342, No.31, eff. 60 days; Nov. 3, 2022, P.L.2067, No.145, eff. 60 days)
2022 Amendment. Act 145 amended subsec. (d)(1).
2017 Amendment. Act 31 amended subsec. (a) and added subsec. (d).
2001 Amendment. Act 37 amended subsecs. (a) and (c).
Cross References. Section 4941 is referred to in sections 4921, 4945, 4961 of this title.
§ 4942. Registered gross weight.
(a) Single vehicle limits.--No vehicle registered as a truck, a combination or a trailer shall be operated with a gross weight in excess of its registered gross weight.
(b) Truck towing trailer.--No vehicle registered as a truck shall be operated with a gross weight, exclusive of any trailer being towed, in excess of its registered gross weight as a truck.
(c) Combination.--No combination containing a trailer having a gross weight or registered gross weight in excess of 10,000 pounds shall be operated with a gross weight in excess of the registered gross weight of the truck or truck tractor for a combination. This subsection shall not apply to a combination of vehicles consisting of a motor vehicle towing a recreational trailer or recreational cargo trailer, registered as such, as long as the combination weight does not exceed the sum of the manufacturer's rated axle capacities or the gross combination weight rating, whichever is less.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2018, P.L.881, No.138, eff. 180 days)
2018 Amendment. Act 138 amended subsec. (c).
Cross References. Section 4942 is referred to in section 4945 of this title.
§ 4943. Maximum axle weight of vehicles.
(a) General rule.--No vehicle or combination driven upon a highway shall have a weight upon any axle in excess of the lesser of the manufacturer's rated axle capacity or the following applicable weight:
(1) Steering axles.--The maximum axle weight upon a steering axle shall not exceed 20,000 pounds.
(2) Other axles.--
Maximum Axle Weight in Pounds Upon:
|
If the Center-to-Center Distance Between the Nearest Adjacent Axles is: |
One of Two Adjacent Axles |
Other of Two Adjacent Axles |
|
Under 6 feet |
18,000 |
18,000 |
|
6 to 8 feet |
18,000 |
22,400 |
|
Over 8 feet |
22,400 |
22,400 |
(b) Exceptions and special applications.--
(1) No combination registered and carrying a gross weight in excess of 73,280 pounds shall have an overall gross weight on any single axle, other than the steering axle, in excess of 20,000 pounds, or an overall gross weight on any group of two or more consecutive axles in excess of that produced by application of the following formula:
|
W = 500 |
( |
LN + (12N + 36) N-1 |
) |
Where W = overall gross weight on any group of two or more consecutive axles to the nearest 500 pounds, L = distance in feet between the extreme of any group of two or more consecutive axles and N = number of axles in group under consideration, except that two consecutive pairs of axles may carry a gross load of 34,000 pounds each, provided the overall distance between the first and last axles of such consecutive pairs of axles is 36 feet or more.
(2) When a truck tractor is registered in excess of 73,280 pounds and is operating in combination with an overall gross weight of 73,280 or less, the maximum axle weight limits of subsection (a)(1) and (2) shall be applicable for the purposes of weighing the combination.
(3) No trucks registered in Classes 17 and 20 shall have an overall gross weight in excess of 21,400 pounds on any tandem axle. In addition, a group of three tandem axles shall not have an overall gross weight in excess of 60,000 pounds. This paragraph shall not be applicable to interstate highways except for a highway added to the interstate system under the National Highway System Designation Act of 1995 (Public Law 104-59, 109 Stat. 568).
(4) Subsection (a)(1) and (2) do not apply to a vehicle or combination operating under the terms of an agreement established under section 4902(c) (relating to restrictions on use of highways and bridges). This paragraph shall not be applicable to interstate highways except for a highway added to the interstate system under the National Highway System Designation Act of 1995.
(5) For the purpose of determining the weight that a six-axle combination registered in Class 25 shall be permitted to carry on a highway, paragraph (1) shall be applied only in the following manner. If the external bridge of the combination is 43 feet and the internal bridge is 32 feet, a group of two consecutive axles may carry a gross weight of 34,000 pounds and a group of three consecutive axles may carry a gross weight of 42,500 pounds. These axles shall be weighed simultaneously to determine their gross weight.
(6) (Deleted by amendment).
(c) Gross weight.--No vehicle or combination shall be driven with a gross weight in excess of the sum of the allowable axle weights as set forth in this section, nor shall any vehicle or combination be driven with a gross weight in excess of the sum of the manufacturer's rated axle capacities.
(d) Location of front axle of semitrailer.--(Deleted by amendment).
(e) Lift-axle position.--
(1) Except when necessary for turning a truck that is operating under normal load conditions, the lift axle shall be in full contact with the highway under full pressure.
(2) Any person violating this subsection is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $250.
(June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; Oct. 10, 1980, P.L.791, No.147, eff. imd.; July 7, 1983, P.L.32, No.19, eff. imd.; Mar. 21, 1996, P.L.35, No.11, eff. 60 days; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days)
1998 Amendment. Act 151 amended subsec. (b)(3) and (4) and deleted subsecs. (b)(6) and (d).
1996 Amendment. Act 11 amended subsec. (b).
1983 Amendment. Act 19 amended subsec. (a).
Cross References. Section 4943 is referred to in section 4945 of this title.
§ 4944. Maximum wheel load.
No motor vehicle or combination shall, when operated upon a highway, have a weight upon any one wheel in excess of 800 pounds for each nominal inch of width of tire on the wheel. Special mobile equipment may be authorized to carry up to 1,000 pounds per nominal inch of tire width subject to the issuance of a permit by the department.
(June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; June 11, 1992, P.L.266, No.47, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4944 is referred to in section 4945 of this title.
§ 4945. Penalties for exceeding maximum weights.
(a) Gross weight violations.--
(1) Any person driving a vehicle or combination upon a highway exceeding the maximum gross weight allowed by section 4941 (relating to maximum gross weight of vehicles) or the registered gross weight allowed by section 4942 (relating to registered gross weight), whichever is less, is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $75 plus $75 for each 500 pounds, or part thereof, in excess of 3,000 pounds over the maximum gross weight or the registered gross weight.
(2) If the gross weight of any vehicle or combination exceeds the applicable gross weight allowed under section 4941(a), the fine imposed under this subsection shall be doubled.
(b) Axle weight violation.--Subject to the provisions of section 4982(c) (relating to reducing or readjusting loads of vehicles), any person operating a vehicle or combination with a weight on an axle or group of consecutive axles exceeding the maximum axle weights allowed by section 4943 (relating to maximum axle weight of vehicles) is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $100 plus $100 for each 500 pounds, or part thereof, in excess of 2,000 pounds over the maximum axle weight allowed.
(c) Wheel weight violation.--Any person operating a vehicle or combination upon a highway exceeding the maximum wheel weight allowed by section 4944 (relating to maximum wheel load) is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $100 plus $100 for each 200 pounds, or part thereof, in excess of 200 pounds over the maximum wheel weight allowed.
(d) Concurrent violations.--In any case in which there are concurrent violations of more than one of the sections or subsections of this subchapter prescribing maximum weights, the only penalty imposed shall be for violation of that section or subsection which produces the greatest fine.
(June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; Dec. 11, 1986, P.L.1530, No.166, eff. 60 days)
1986 Amendment. Act 166 amended subsec. (b).
1980 Amendment. Act 68 amended subsec. (a).
§ 4946. Impoundment of vehicles for nonpayment of overweight fines (Repealed).
1985 Repeal. Section 4946 was repealed June 19, 1985, P.L.49, No.20, effective in 60 days.
§ 4947. Disposition of impounded vehicles and loads (Repealed).
1985 Repeal. Section 4947 was repealed June 19, 1985, P.L.49, No.20, effective in 60 days.
§ 4948. Maximum weight and seating capacity of buses.
(a) Gross, axle and wheel weights.--No bus shall be operated upon any highway with a gross weight in excess of 73,280 pounds, or with a weight on any axle in excess of the lesser of the manufacturer's rated axle capacity or 22,400 pounds on any single axle. Buses operated upon interstate highways shall not have a weight on any axle in excess of 20,000 pounds. No bus shall be operated on a highway with a weight upon any wheel in excess of 800 pounds on any one wheel for each nominal inch of width of tire on the wheel.
(b) Seating capacity load.--A bus shall not be operated on a highway with a load exceeding by more than 25% its registered seating capacity except when operated within a business or residence district. A child under the age of six years shall not be counted when computing the load on the bus.
(c) Penalties.--Any person owning or operating a bus with a gross weight or with weight on any axle or wheel exceeding by more than 5% the maximum allowed in subsection (a) is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $100. If the excess weight is more than 10% above the maximum weight allowed, the fine shall be $300. Any person in violation of subsection (b) is guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $100.
(June 6, 1979, P.L.39, No.12, eff. imd.; Oct. 10, 1980, P.L.791, No.147, eff. imd.)
1980 Amendment. Act 147 amended subsec. (a).
§ 4949. Application to tow trucks.
The weight restrictions set forth in this subchapter do not apply to a combination consisting of any tow truck towing a disabled motor vehicle to a place of repairs or other place of safety as long as the overweight combination travels directly to the first available such location and the movement is performed at the direction of authorized emergency personnel or a qualified Commonwealth employee.
(Dec. 9, 2002, P.L.1278, No.152, eff. 60 days)
2002 Amendment. Act 152 added section 4949.
SUBCHAPTER D
SPECIAL PERMITS FOR EXCESSIVE
SIZE AND WEIGHT
Sec.
4961. Authority to issue permits.
4962. Conditions of permits and security for damages.
4963. Exemptions for vehicles used in State highway construction or maintenance.
4964. Oral authorization following emergency or accident.
4965. Single permits for multiple highway crossings.
4966. Permit for movement of quarry equipment.
4967. Permit for movement of implements of husbandry (Repealed).
4968. Permit for movement during course of manufacture.
4969. Permit for movement of vehicles with oversize wheels and tires (Repealed).
4970. Permit for movement of construction equipment.
4971. Permit for operation of chemical and fertilizer vehicles (Deleted by amendment).
4972. Permits for migrant farm vehicles (Repealed).
4973. Permits for movement of a mobile home, a manufactured home or a modular housing unit and modular housing undercarriage.
4974. Permit for movement of containerized cargo.
4975. Permit for movement of special mobile equipment.
4976. Permit for movement of domestic animal feed and whole or unprocessed grain.
4976.1. Permit for movement of live domestic animals.
4976.2. Permit for movement of eggs.
4977. Permit for movement of wooden structures.
4978. Permit for movement of building structural components.
4979. Permit for movement of particleboard or fiberboard used in the manufacture of ready-to-assemble furniture.
4979.1. Permit for movement of bulk refined oil.
4979.2. Permit for movement of waste coal, beneficial combustion ash or limestone.
4979.3. Permit for movement of float glass or flat glass for use in construction and other end uses.
4979.4. Permit for movement of self-propelled cranes.
4979.5. Permit for movement of nonhazardous liquid glue.
4979.6. Permit for movement of waste tires.
Cross References. Subchapter D is referred to in section 4982 of this title.
§ 4961. Authority to issue permits.
(a) General rule.--The department and local authorities with respect to highways under their respective jurisdictions may, upon application in writing showing good cause, issue special permits in writing authorizing the applicant to operate or move on specified highways any of the following:
(1) A vehicle which when unloaded exceeds the maximum size specified in Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length) or the maximum weights specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles).
(2) A combination carrying a nondivisible load and exceeding the maximum size specified in Subchapter B or the maximum weights specified in Subchapter C.
(3) A vehicle containing a nondivisible load which exceeds the maximum width specified in section 4921(a) (relating to width of vehicles) or the maximum height specified in section 4922 (relating to height of vehicles).
(4) A mobile home.
(5) A modular housing or manufactured construction unit which exceeds the maximum size prescribed in this title.
(5.1) A manufactured construction unit which exceeds the maximum size and weight prescribed in this title.
(6) A modular housing or manufactured construction unit undercarriage which exceeds the maximum size prescribed in this title.
(7) Such other vehicles and combinations as are specifically authorized in this chapter.
(b) Limitation for truck tractors.--Permits to exceed the maximum weight limit shall be issued only for truck tractors registered at the maximum weight permitted under section 4941(a) or (b) (relating to maximum gross weight of vehicles). When a truck tractor is operating under permit, the fine for axle and gross weight violations shall only be applicable to the weight that the vehicle is in excess of the weight allowed on the permit.
(c) County offices for issuing permits.--The department shall empower an authorized representative or employee to issue permits as provided in subsection (a) and may provide a place within each county where the permits may be issued.
(d) Excess damage permits.--The department and local authorities having highways under their respective jurisdictions may issue a permit with a maximum distance of 2.5 miles for the movement upon specified highways of combinations in excess of the maximum weights specified in Subchapter C and may require such security as deemed necessary to cover the cost of repairs and restoration necessitated by the movement of such vehicles. Permits issued under this subsection shall be subject to the following conditions:
(1) The security shall be in the form of an irrevocable letter of credit signed by a bank officer and naming the department or local authority as sole beneficiary, to be honored on presentment.
(2) The maximum allowable gross weight shall be 125,000 pounds.
(3) Upon notification from the department or local authority, the permittee shall reimburse the department or local authority for repair and restoration costs determined to be necessitated by the movement of the overweight vehicles. Failure to reimburse the department or local authority within 60 days of said notice shall automatically invalidate the permit and cause action against the letter of credit.
(Oct. 10, 1980, P.L.791, No.147, eff. imd.; Mar. 7, 1982, P.L.152, No.49, eff imd.; May 1, 1984, P.L.224, No.48, eff. 60 days; July 11, 1985, P.L.204, No.52, eff. 90 days; Feb. 10, 1994, P.L.10, No.2, eff. 60 days; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; Dec. 9, 2002, P.L.1278, No.152, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4961 is referred to in sections 1302, 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4962. Conditions of permits and security for damages.
(a) General rule.--Permits may be conditioned by limiting the number of trips or by establishing seasonal or other time limitations or geographic limitations including limitations as to prescribed highways or by otherwise limiting or prescribing conditions of operation under the permit as the department or local authorities shall deem necessary to protect the safety of highway users, to promote the efficient movement of traffic or to protect the highways. The department or local authorities may require such undertaking or security as they deem necessary to compensate for any damage to any highway or structure or appurtenance.
(b) Display of permit.--Every permit shall be carried in the towing vehicle and shall be open to inspection by any police officer or authorized agent of the issuing agency or any person having an accident involving a permitted vehicle or combination.
(c) Revocation of permit.--A permit shall be revocable for cause and shall be subject to summary confiscation or invalidation as provided by departmental regulations.
(d) Special escort services.--The department or local authorities shall specify what movements require special escort services of the Pennsylvania State Police, local police or department personnel as determined under section 4901(c)(2) (relating to scope and application of chapter).
(e) Liability of permittee for damage.--The permittee shall be liable for all damage to any highway structure or appurtenance sustained as a result of operating or moving under the permit.
(f) When loads permitted.--Only vehicles and combinations permitted under the following provisions shall be authorized to carry or haul loads while operating under the permit:
Section 4961(a)(2), (3) and (6) (relating to authority to issue permits).
Section 4965 (relating to single permits for multiple highway crossings).
Section 4968 (relating to permit for movement during course of manufacture).
Section 4974 (relating to permit for movement of containerized cargo).
Section 4975 (relating to permit for movement of special mobile equipment).
Section 4976 (relating to permit for movement of domestic animal feed).
Section 4976.1 (relating to permit for movement of live domestic animals).
Section 4976.2 (relating to permit for movement of eggs).
Section 4977 (relating to permit for movement of wooden structures).
Section 4978 (relating to permit for movement of building structural components).
Section 4979 (relating to permit for movement of particleboard or fiberboard used in the manufacture of ready-to-assemble furniture).
Section 4979.1 (relating to permit for movement of bulk refined oil).
Section 4979.2 (relating to permit for movement of waste coal and beneficial combustion ash).
Section 4979.3 (relating to permit for movement of float glass or flat glass for use in construction and other end uses).
Section 4979.4 (relating to permit for movement of self-propelled cranes).
Section 4979.5 (relating to permit for movement of nonhazardous liquid glue).
Section 4979.6 (relating to permit for movement of waste tires).
(f.1) Authorized travel periods.--A permitted vehicle, combination or load which does not exceed 135,000 pounds gross weight and which does not exceed 10 feet in width or any height or length limitation under Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length) may be driven, hauled or towed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, if the vehicle or combination is operated at prevailing speeds. Movement under this subsection is not authorized during inclement weather, as defined in department regulations.
(1) (Deleted by amendment).
(2) (Deleted by amendment).
(f.2) One pilot car.--Vehicles greater than 13 feet but not greater than 14 feet in body width, even if the total length of the vehicle or combination, including the load on the combination, exceeds 90 feet but is not in excess of 120 feet, shall only be required to maintain one pilot car. The position of the pilot car to the front or rear of the permitted vehicle may be determined by the department.
(f.3) Additional authorized travel periods.--Except as otherwise provided under this title, a permitted vehicle, combination or load which is oversized (over-length, over-width or over-height), overweight or both oversized and overweight may operate under a permit from sunrise to sunset every day of the week, except as follows:
(1) During a holiday period specified in department regulations or in the permit.
(2) During inclement weather as defined in department regulations.
(3) In urbanized areas as specified in department regulations or the permit.
(4) As restricted by the permit.
(f.4) Travel restriction.--A permitted oversized vehicle may not travel within 1,000 feet of another permitted oversized vehicle traveling in the same direction, unless the vehicle is one of the following:
(1) A military vehicle.
(2) A vehicle traveling in a construction zone.
(3) A vehicle traveling within 2,500 feet of a stop sign, traffic light or any other traffic control signal or event that would cause either vehicle to come to a stop.
(f.5) Transport.--Notwithstanding the provisions of this title to the contrary, a permit issued under section 4961 or 4973 (relating to permits for movement of a mobile home, a manufactured home or a modular housing unit and modular housing undercarriage) for the movement of manufactured homes, modular homes, mobile homes, manufactured construction units or modular housing undercarriages shall permit the transport of multiple sections of homes, units or undercarriages or any and all components needed or used to assemble the homes, units or undercarriages, including, but not limited to, shingles, dormers, trusses and gable end walls, provided that the multiple sections and components do not cause the overall weight to exceed 80,000 pounds or exceed the width, length or height limitations set forth in the permit.
(f.6) One certified escort vehicle.--
(1) A super load, as defined in section 3108(c) (relating to drivers of certified escort vehicles), shall be required to maintain one certified escort vehicle under section 4573(b) (relating to identification of certain vehicles) unless otherwise determined under section 4901(c) that an additional certified escort vehicle or a Pennsylvania State Police escort is necessary.
(2) The requirements of this subsection are in addition to, not in lieu of, all other pilot car requirements for the super load movement.
(f.7) Movement of dozers.--
(1) A permitted vehicle or combination hauling a dozer with an attached blade in excess of 12 feet in width, but not wider than 15 feet, may move upon a highway if:
(i) a traffic protector guiderail device is securely fastened to the dozer; or
(ii) the blade is angled so the total width of the load does not exceed 12 feet.
(2) A blade over 15 feet in width shall be removed and hauled separately.
(g) Penalty.--Any person who operates or moves or attempts to operate or move an oversize or overweight vehicle, combination or load under an altered, forged or counterfeited permit, in addition to any other violation prohibited by this title, commits a summary offense and shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of $5,000 for each violation.
(July 11, 1985, P.L.204, No.52, eff. 90 days; July 1, 1989, P.L.115, No.24, eff. 60 days; May 20, 1993, P.L.30, No.10, eff. 60 days; Dec. 7, 1994, P.L.820, No.115, eff. imd.; Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; July 6, 1995, P.L.315, No.48, eff. 60 days; Dec. 20, 1995, P.L.669, No.75, eff. 60 days; Feb. 23, 1996, P.L.21, No.8, eff. 60 days; July 11, 1996, P.L.660, No.115; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 25, 1999, P.L.164, No.23, eff. 60 days; July 14, 2005, P.L.285, No.50, eff. 60 days; July 16, 2007, P.L.106, No.33, eff. 60 days; Oct. 19, 2010, P.L.557, No.81, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1473, No.187, eff. 60 days; Nov. 25, 2013, P.L.974, No.89, eff. 60 days; Mar. 19, 2014, P.L.361, No.23, eff. imd.; June 30, 2014, P.L.814, No.85, eff. 60 days; Oct. 30, 2015, P.L.216, No.55, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.318, No.24, eff. 60 days; June 25, 2021, P.L.59, No.22, eff. 60 days)
2021 Amendment. Act 22 added subsec. (f.7).
2017 Amendment. Act 24 amended subsec. (f.1).
2015 Amendment. Act 55 amended subsec. (d) and added subsec. (f.6).
2014 Amendments. Act 23 amended subsec. (f.3) intro. par. and Act 85 amended subsec. (f.2) and added subsecs. (f.4) and (f.5).
2013 Amendment. See the preamble to Act 89 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative findings and declarations.
2012 Amendment. Act 187 amended subsec. (f).
2010 Amendment. The preamble of Act 81 provided that Act 81 may be referred to as the Sgt. Michael C. Weigand Law.
1994 Amendments. Act 115 amended subsec. (c) and added subsec. (g) and Act 172 amended subsec. (c) and added subsec. (g). The amendments by Acts 115 and 172 are identical and therefore have been merged.
Cross References. Section 4962 is referred to in sections 1302, 1946, 4973 of this title.
§ 4963. Exemptions for vehicles used in State highway construction or maintenance.
When operating within the established construction or maintenance project limits as specified in the highway construction plans or contract documents, no permit shall be required for movement across, upon or along any highway of oversize or overweight vehicles of the department or a contractor or other person currently involved in the authorized construction or maintenance of the highway. Movement under this section is not authorized upon a bridge posted under section 4902 (relating to restrictions on use of highways and bridges) unless the posted bridge is currently being reconstructed or maintained.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days)
§ 4964. Oral authorization following emergency or accident.
In the event of an emergency or accident affecting the public safety or convenience, the department and local authorities may orally authorize the operation or movement of a vehicle or combination which exceeds the maximum size or weight specified in this chapter provided a permit is applied for within 72 hours of the operation or movement.
§ 4965. Single permits for multiple highway crossings.
A single permit may be issued for a number of movements across the highway at specified locations within a fixed period of time of vehicles or combinations:
(1) exceeding the maximum size or weight specified in this chapter; or
(2) used to cross a highway to get from one commercial or industrial facility to another commercial or industrial facility under the same operation.
Whenever a permit is issued for crossing the highway, it is unlawful to move the vehicles along the highway.
(July 11, 1985, P.L.204, No.52, eff. 90 days)
Cross References. Section 4965 is referred to in sections 1302, 1943, 3108, 4904, 4962 of this title.
§ 4966. Permit for movement of quarry equipment.
An annual permit may be issued for the movement of a piece of quarry equipment or machinery exceeding the maximum size or weight specified in this chapter across any highway other than a freeway from one part of a quarry to another, or upon the highways other than freeways connecting by the most direct route any quarries or portions of quarries under single ownership or operation, but no permit shall be issued for the movement of equipment or machinery for a distance greater than one mile.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4966 is referred to in sections 1302, 1943, 3108 of this title.
§ 4967. Permit for movement of implements of husbandry (Repealed).
1979 Repeal. Section 4967 was repealed July 20, 1979, P.L.168, No.55, effective immediately.
§ 4968. Permit for movement during course of manufacture.
(a) Annual permit.--(Deleted by amendment).
(a.1) General rule.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing movement on specified highways of:
(1) boats, trailers, mobile homes, modular housing units and undercarriages, helicopters, hot ingots, a hot box, basic oxygen furnace lances, railway equipment and rails or other articles, vehicles or combinations which exceed the maximum height, width or length specified in Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length) while they are in the course of manufacture and under contract with or under the direct control of the manufacturer, provided that they do not exceed the maximum weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles) unless they also qualify under paragraph (3);
(2) self-propelled cranes while they are in the course of manufacture and under contract with or under the direct control of the manufacturer; or
(3) aircraft refueling vehicles or vehicles and combinations carrying milk, raw coal, flat-rolled steel coils, steel slabs, hot ingots, a hot box, pulpwood and wood chips, raw water or cryogenic liquid or sugar which exceed the maximum weight specified in Subchapter C while they are in the course of manufacture and under contract with or under the direct control of the manufacturer, provided that they do not exceed the maximum height, width or length specified in Subchapter B unless they also qualify under paragraph (1), subject to the provisions in subsection (a.2).
(a.2) Specifications.--
(1) Except for articles and vehicles not exceeding 102 inches in width, no permit shall be issued under this section for movement of articles or vehicles while they are in transit from the manufacturer to a purchaser or dealer or for the movement of articles or vehicles upon a freeway.
(2) Overwidth articles and vehicles:
(i) Articles and vehicles not wider than 102 inches may be moved any distance on a permit.
(ii) Articles and vehicles wider than 102 inches but not wider than 108 inches may be moved up to seven miles on a permit 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
(iii) Articles and vehicles wider than 102 inches but not in excess of 12 feet in width may be moved up to 50 miles on a permit.
(iv) Wider articles and vehicles may be moved no farther than ten miles on a permit.
(3) A combination of vehicles which is hauling flat-rolled steel coils or steel slabs may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions a distance not exceeding 50 miles if the gross weight does not exceed 100,000 pounds and the weight of any nonsteering axle does not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(4) A combination of vehicles which is hauling milk to or from a manufacturer may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except during inclement weather as defined in department regulations, if the gross weight does not exceed 95,000 pounds and the weight of any nonsteering axle does not exceed 21,000 pounds. A permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway. An application to the department for the movement of milk, except for raw milk, shall designate the route the applicant requests to use.
(5) A combination of vehicles which is hauling a hot ingot or a hot box may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions a distance not exceeding 25 miles if the gross weight does not exceed 150,000 pounds and the weight of any nonsteering axle does not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(6) A combination of vehicles which is hauling basic oxygen furnace lances may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions if the overall length does not exceed 90 feet. A vehicle operating under a permit authorized under this section may be driven 24 hours a day, seven days a week, if the vehicle or combination is operated at prevailing speeds. Movement under this paragraph is not authorized during any of the following:
(i) A holiday period specified in department regulations or in the permit.
(ii) Inclement weather, as defined in department regulations.
(7) A self-propelled crane which is being road tested may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions a distance not exceeding 15 miles if the gross weight does not exceed 150,000 pounds and the weight on any axle does not exceed 27,000 pounds.
(8) A combination of vehicles which is hauling raw coal from a mine to a processing or preparation facility may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions a distance not exceeding 30 miles if the gross weight does not exceed 95,000 pounds and the weight of any nonsteering axle does not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(9) A combination of vehicles which is hauling raw water from a spring to a bottling facility may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon specified highways within their respective jurisdictions subject to the following conditions:
(i) The vehicle must be a six-axle combination - three-axle truck tractor.
(ii) Gross vehicular weight must not exceed 96,900 pounds.
(iii) Maximum weight on steering axles shall be 11,000 pounds.
(iv) Maximum weight on the truck-tractor tandem (axles two and three) shall be 38,000 pounds, with a maximum of 19,500 pounds on either axle in the group.
(v) Maximum weight on the semitrailer tridem (axles four, five and six) shall be 47,700 pounds, with a maximum of 16,400 pounds on any axle in the group.
(vi) Minimum spacing between axle one and axle two shall be 12 feet 11 inches.
(vii) The center-to-center distance between the last drive axle of the truck tractor (axle three) and the first axle of semitrailer (axle four) must be a minimum of 26 feet 7 inches.
(viii) Minimum spacing between tandem and tridem axles shall be 4 feet 1 inch.
No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(10) A combination of vehicles which is hauling pulpwood or wood chips from a specified source to a pulp mill may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon specified highways within their respective jurisdictions subject to the following conditions:
(i) The vehicle must be a minimum five-axle combination - three-axle truck tractor meeting the following characteristics:
(A) Gross vehicular weight must not exceed 95,000 pounds.
(B) Maximum weight on steering axles shall be 11,000 pounds.
(C) Maximum weight on the truck-trailer tandem (axles two and three) shall be 42,000 pounds, with a maximum of 21,000 pounds on either axle in the group.
(D) Maximum weight on the semitrailer tridem (axles four and five) shall be 42,000 pounds, with a maximum of 21,000 pounds on any axle in the group.
(E) Minimum spacing between axle one and axle two shall be 12 feet 6 inches.
(F) The center-to-center distance between the last drive axle of the truck tractor (axle three) and the first axle of the semitrailer (axle four) must be a minimum of 28 feet 0 inch.
(G) Minimum spacing between tandem and tridem axles shall be 4 feet 0 inch.
(ii) The vehicle must be a minimum six-axle combination - three-axle truck tractor meeting the following characteristics:
(A) Gross vehicular weight must not exceed 107,000 pounds.
(B) Maximum weight on steering axles shall be 12,000 pounds.
(C) Maximum weight on the truck-tractor tandem (axles two and three) shall be 42,000 pounds, with a maximum of 21,000 pounds on either axle in the group.
(D) Maximum weight on the semitrailer tridem (axles four, five and six) shall be 53,000 pounds, with a maximum of 17,670 pounds on any axle in the group.
(E) Minimum spacing between axle one and axle two shall be 12 feet 6 inches.
(F) The center-to-center distance between the last drive axle of the truck tractor (axle three) and the first axle of the semitrailer (axle four) must be a minimum of 45 feet 0 inch.
(G) Minimum spacing between tandem and tridem axles shall be 4 feet 0 inch.
No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(11) An aircraft refueling vehicle manufactured for the United States Department of Defense which is being road tested and carrying a load required under contract with the Department of Defense as part of the road test procedure may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdictions a distance not exceeding 35 miles if, for a three-axle vehicle, the gross weight does not exceed 70,000 pounds and the weight on any axle does not exceed 26,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(12) A permit may be denied or revoked in order to preserve the safety of highway users or to protect the structural integrity of highways or bridges or as otherwise authorized by department regulations.
(13) A combination of vehicles that hauls cryogenic liquid from a manufacturing or processing facility to another manufacturing or processing facility may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon highways within their respective jurisdiction if the gross weight does not exceed 102,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(14) A combination vehicle hauling sugar may be permitted by the department and local authorities to move upon specified highways within their respective jurisdictions a distance not exceeding five miles if the gross weight does not exceed 95,000 pounds and the weight of any nonsteering axle does not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(b) Definitions.--As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings given to them in this subsection:
"Bulk milk." The term shall mean milk, as defined in section 1 of the act of July 2, 1935 (P.L.589, No.210), referred to as the Milk Sanitation Law, which is not transported in packages.
"Condensed milk" and "evaporated milk." The term shall mean manufactured dairy products as defined in section 1 of the act of July 2, 1935 (P.L.589, No.210), referred to as the Milk Sanitation Law, which is not transported in packages.
"Hot box." Consists of an enclosure consisting of welded steel plate chained to a semitrailer with a removable lid lined with refraction for purposes of insulation and retention of heat.
"Milk." The term shall mean any of the following:
(1) Bulk milk.
(2) Evaporated milk.
(3) Raw milk.
(4) Condensed milk.
"Raw milk." Has the meaning given to it in the act of July 2, 1935 (P.L.589, No.210), referred to as the Milk Sanitation Law.
"Sugar." The term shall refer to granulated raw, semi-refined or refined sugar derived from the processing of sugar cane or sugar beets, requiring further processing and not intended for direct consumption or retail sale.
(Mar. 7, 1982, P.L.152, No.49, eff. imd.; Nov. 29, 1985, P.L.316, No.81, eff. 60 days; Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; July 6, 1995, P.L.315, No.48, eff. 60 days; Feb. 23, 1996, P.L.21, No.8, eff. 60 days; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 25, 1999, P.L.164, No.23, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days; Nov. 29, 2006, P.L.1449, No.159, eff. 60 days; Nov. 26, 2008, P.L.1658, No.133, eff. 60 days; Oct. 19, 2010, P.L.557, No.81, eff. 60 days; Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1473, No.187, eff. 60 days; Nov. 25, 2013, P.L.974, No.89, eff. imd.; May 25, 2016, P.L.248, No.34, eff. 60 days; Nov. 4, 2016, P.L.1277, No.165, eff. 60 days; July 11, 2022, P.L.1591, No.91, eff. 60 days)
2022 Amendment. Act 91 amended subsec. (a.2)(10)(i) intro. par. and (ii) intro par.
2016 Amendments. Act 34 amended subsec. (a.2)(4) and Act 165 amended subsec. (a.1)(3), added subsec. (a.2)(14) and the def. of "sugar" in subsec. (b).
2013 Amendment. Act 89 amended subsecs. (a.1)(3), (a.2)(4) and (b). See the preamble and section 44 of Act 89 in the appendix to this title for special provisions relating to legislative findings and declarations and movement of raw milk.
2012 Amendment. Act 187 amended subsec. (a.1)(3) and added subsec. (a.2)(13).
2010 Amendment. Act 81 deleted subsec. (a) and added subsecs. (a.1) and (a.2). The preamble of Act 81 provided that Act 81 may be referred to as the Sgt. Michael C. Weigand Law.
Cross References. Section 4968 is referred to in sections 1943, 4904, 4962 of this title.
§ 4969. Permit for movement of vehicles with oversize wheels and tires (Repealed).
1993 Repeal. Section 4969 was repealed May 20, 1993, P.L.30, No.10, effective in 60 days.
§ 4970. Permit for movement of construction equipment.
(a) Utility construction equipment.--A permit may be issued for the duration of a single construction project, but not exceeding one year, authorizing a public utility or its contractors or subcontractors to move oversized or overweight construction equipment across or upon highways immediately adjacent to the construction site and between the construction site and the base of operations of the utility company, contractor or subcontractor.
(b) Construction trucks.--(Deleted by amendment).
(b.1) Construction trucks.--(Deleted by amendment).
(c) Combinations.--A combination transporting construction equipment under a single trip permit may be driven 24 hours per day, seven days a week outside of the designated urbanized areas, subject to the following conditions:
(1) The equipment being transported is used exclusively for highway construction.
(2) The maximum width of the load and vehicle does not exceed ten feet.
(3) The maximum gross weight of the vehicle and load does not exceed 135,000 pounds.
(4) The vehicle with load must be capable of operating at prevailing speeds.
(5) The outermost limits of the load must be marked with lights as specified by the department.
(6) The permitted vehicle must be followed by a pilot car in accordance with department regulations.
(7) Movement under this subsection is not authorized during inclement weather as defined in department regulations.
(i) (Deleted by amendment).
(ii) (Deleted by amendment).
(d) Construction equipment.--An annual permit may be issued for the movement of certain types of construction equipment which exceed the maximum width specified in Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length), subject to the following conditions:
(1) The equipment being transported is used for excavating, land clearing, paving or roadbuilding activities.
(2) The maximum width of the load and the vehicle does not exceed 11 feet.
(3) The maximum travel distance does not exceed 125 miles from the place of origin as shown on the permit.
(Oct. 10, 1980, P.L.791, No.147, eff. imd.; May 9, 1986, P.L.163, No.52, eff. imd.; June 11, 1992, P.L.266, No.47, eff. imd.; Dec. 14, 1992, P.L.870, No.139, eff. imd.; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. imd.; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.318, No.24, eff. 60 days)
2017 Amendment. Act 24 amended subsec. (c)(7).
2001 Amendment. Act 37 added subsecs. (c) and (d).
1998 Amendment. Act 151 deleted subsecs. (b) and (b.1).
Cross References. Section 4970 is referred to in sections 1302, 1943 of this title.
§ 4971. Permit for operation of chemical and fertilizer vehicles (Deleted by amendment).
1992 Amendment. Section 4971 was deleted by amendment December 18, 1992, P.L.1411, No.174, effective in 60 days.
§ 4972. Permits for migrant farm vehicles (Repealed).
1993 Repeal. Section 4972 was repealed May 20, 1993, P.L.30, No.10, effective in 60 days.
§ 4973. Permits for movement of a mobile home, a manufactured home or a modular housing unit and modular housing undercarriage.
(a) General rule.--A permit may be issued under this section for movement of a mobile home or a modular housing unit that exceeds 14 feet in body width but which does not exceed 16 feet in width.
(b) Conditions.--A vehicle, combination or load permitted under this section shall be operated under such conditions as specified by the department pursuant to section 4962 (relating to conditions of permits and security for damages). A mobile home or modular housing unit which exceeds 14 feet in body width may not exceed 80 feet, including hitch, in home unit length or 14 feet 6 inches in height.
(c) Equipment.--In addition to the requirements of this title and departmental regulations, a mobile home that is wider than 14 feet in body width or a modular housing undercarriage which is carrying a modular housing unit that is wider than 14 feet in body width shall be equipped as follows:
(1) the mobile home or modular housing undercarriage shall have at least four axles;
(2) each wheel on a mobile home or modular housing undercarriage shall be equipped with operable brakes; and
(3) the tires on a mobile home or modular housing undercarriage may not carry a weight in excess of the tire manufacturer's rating as marked on the sidewall of the tire.
(d) Pilot cars.--In addition to the conditions of this title and departmental regulations, a vehicle, combination or load permitted under this section that is wider than 14 feet in body width shall be accompanied by two pilot cars on all highways, with one pilot car leading the permitted motor vehicle and one pilot car following the permitted vehicle or combination.
(e) Restricted travel periods.--(Deleted by amendment).
(Dec. 7, 1994, P.L.820, No.115, eff. imd.; Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; June 30, 2014, P.L.814, No.85, eff. 60 days)
2014 Amendment. Act 85 amended the section heading and deleted subsec. (e).
1994 Amendments. Acts 115 and 172 added section 4973. The amendments by Acts 115 and 172 are identical and therefore have been merged.
Cross References. Section 4973 is referred to in sections 1944, 4962 of this title.
§ 4974. Permit for movement of containerized cargo.
(a) General rule.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on highways of containerized cargo which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross or maximum axle weights specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). Except as set forth in subsection (b), the weight of any combination permitted under this section shall not exceed 90,000 pounds overall gross weight and 21,000 pounds on any axle. A brake retarder is not required on a combination permitted under this section while the combination is operated within the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia. A vehicle operating under a permit authorized under this section may be driven 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except on holidays and in inclement weather.
(b) Refrigerated meat products.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of containerized cargo consisting of refrigerated meat products which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight or maximum axle weights specified in Subchapter C, subject to the following conditions:
(1) The vehicle must be a six-axle combination - three-axle truck tractor.
(2) Gross vehicular weight must not exceed 107,500 pounds.
(3) Maximum weight on any axle must not exceed 21,000 pounds.
(4) Specified highways and routes may only be permitted in the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia.
(5) Travel is authorized 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except in inclement weather.
(Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; Feb. 23, 1996, P.L.21, No.8, eff. 60 days; July 11, 1996, P.L.660, No.115, eff. 60 days; July 14, 2005, P.L.285, No.50, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.318, No.24, eff. 60 days)
2017 Amendment. Act 24 amended subsec. (b)(5).
Cross References. Section 4974 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4975. Permit for movement of special mobile equipment.
An annual permit may be issued authorizing the hauling or towing of a piece of special mobile equipment which does not exceed nine feet two inches in width on freeways, provided the permitted vehicle or combination maintains a minimum speed of 40 miles per hour.
(Dec. 20, 1995, P.L.669, No.75, eff. 60 days; Feb. 23, 1996, P.L.21, No.8, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4975 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4976. Permit for movement of domestic animal feed and whole or unprocessed grain.
An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on highways of domestic animal feed and whole or unprocessed grain, in bulk, which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 95,000 pounds overall gross weight and the weight on any nonsteering axle does not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(Feb. 23, 1996, P.L.21, No.8, eff. 60 days; Nov. 29, 2006, P.L.1449, No.159, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4976 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4976.1. Permit for movement of live domestic animals.
(a) Authorization.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on highways of live domestic animals which exceeds the maximum gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). The weight of any combination permitted under this section shall not exceed 95,000 pounds gross weight, and the weight on any nonsteering axle shall not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(b) Definition.--As used in this section, the term "domestic animal" shall have the meaning given to it in 3 Pa.C.S. Ch. 23 (relating to domestic animals).
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days)
1998 Amendment. Act 151 added section 4976.1.
Cross References. Section 4976.1 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4976.2. Permit for movement of eggs.
(a) Authorization.--Except as set forth in subsection (b), all of the following apply:
(1) An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on highways to haul eggs to or from a processor by a combination of vehicles which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles).
(2) On a vehicle permitted under this section:
(i) overall gross weight may not exceed 95,000 pounds; and
(ii) weight on a nonsteering axle may not exceed 21,000 pounds.
(b) Exception.--No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(Oct. 24, 2012, P.L.1473, No.187, eff. 60 days)
2012 Amendment. Act 187 added section 4976.2.
Cross References. Section 4976.2 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4977. Permit for movement of wooden structures.
An annual permit may be issued for the movement on highways of certain wooden structures which exceed the maximum length, width and height specified in Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length), subject to the following conditions:
(1) The overall width, including all appurtenances and overhangs, may not exceed 13 feet.
(2) The overall length may not exceed 90 feet.
(2.1) The overall height may not exceed 13 feet 10 inches.
(3) The wooden structure or structures must be transported on a trailer of a type approved by the department to accommodate the transportation of structures which do not exceed the width, length or height specified in this section.
(4) Movement under this section is limited to roof trusses, wooden utility sheds, gazebos, garages and play equipment. Other components that do not exceed width, length or height specified in this section may be carried in conjunction with movements under this permit.
(July 11, 1996, P.L.660, No.115, eff. 60 days; Dec. 10, 1996, P.L.925, No.149, eff. 60 days; Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 25, 1999, P.L.164, No.23, eff. 60 days; Oct. 4, 2002, P.L.845, No.123, eff. 60 days)
2002 Amendment. Act 123 amended pars. (3) and (4).
Cross References. Section 4977 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4978. Permit for movement of building structural components.
A permit may be issued for the duration of a single building construction project, but not exceeding one year, authorizing the movement upon specified highways of nondivisible building structural components, such as precast concrete, roof trusses or wall panels, which exceed the maximum width, height or length specified in Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length) or the maximum gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). Combinations permitted under this section may not exceed 90 feet in length, 13 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height or 116,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4978 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979. Permit for movement of particleboard or fiberboard used in the manufacture of ready-to-assemble furniture.
An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of particleboard or fiberboard for use in the manufacture of ready-to-assemble household or office furniture which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). Permits issued under this section shall not exceed a distance of 70 miles. The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 107,000 pounds overall gross weight and shall have the following maximum axle weight limits for all nonsteering axles:
|
Single axle |
21,000 pounds |
|
Tandem axles |
42,000 pounds |
|
Tridem axles |
53,000 pounds |
|
Quad axles |
63,000 pounds |
No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. imd.)
Cross References. Section 4979 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979.1. Permit for movement of bulk refined oil.
An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of refined oil in bulk between a refinery and a distribution facility which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). Permits issued under this section shall not exceed a distance of 125 miles. The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 107,000 pounds overall gross weight and shall have the following maximum axle weight limits for all nonsteering axles:
|
Single axle |
21,000 pounds |
|
Tandem axles |
42,000 pounds |
|
Tridem axles |
53,000 pounds |
|
Quad axles |
63,000 pounds |
No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; Oct. 19, 2010, P.L.557, No.81, eff. 60 days)
2010 Amendment. The preamble of Act 81 provided that Act 81 may be referred to as the Sgt. Michael C. Weigand Law.
Cross References. Section 4979.1 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979.2. Permit for movement of waste coal, beneficial combustion ash or limestone.
(a) Waste coal and beneficial combustion ash.--An annual permit may be issued for the movement on specified highways of waste coal from a refuse pile to a preparation or power production facility or beneficial combustion ash from a power production facility to a reclamation area which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 95,000 pounds overall gross weight, and the weight on any nonsteering axle may not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(b) Limestone.--An annual permit may be issued for the movement on specified highways of limestone from a quarry to a power production facility which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C, subject to the following conditions:
(1) The combination must have a minimum of six axles.
(2) The maximum overall gross weight may not exceed 95,000 pounds.
(3) The weight on any nonsteering axle may not exceed 21,000 pounds.
(4) The maximum travel distance may not exceed 100 miles.
(5) No permit may be issued for this type of movement on an interstate highway.
(Dec. 21, 1998, P.L.1126, No.151, eff. 60 days; Dec. 9, 2002, P.L.1278, No.152, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4979.2 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979.3. Permit for movement of float glass or flat glass for use in construction and other end uses.
(a) General rule.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of float glass or flat glass for use in construction and other end uses which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles).
(b) Specifications.--
(1) The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 100,000 pounds overall gross weight, shall be a five axle combination - three axle truck tractor and shall have the following maximum axle weight limits for all axles:
|
Steering axles |
12,000 pounds |
|
Truck tractor tandem axles |
44,000 pounds with a maximum of 22,500 pounds on either axle in the group |
|
Semitrailer tandem axles |
44,000 pounds with a maximum of 22,500 pounds on either axle in the group |
(2) The spacing between axle 1 and axle 2 must be a minimum of 15 feet.
(3) The center-to-center distance between the last drive axle of the truck tractor and the first axle of the semitrailer must be a minimum of 31 feet 6 inches.
(4) The spacing between tandem axles must be a minimum of 4 feet 4 inches for the truck tractor and 5 feet 2 inches for the semitrailer.
(c) Operation limitations.--
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), a vehicle operating under a permit authorized under this section may be driven 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
(2) Movement under this paragraph is not authorized during any of the following:
(i) A holiday period specified in department regulations or in the permit.
(ii) Inclement weather, as defined in department regulations.
(d) Interstate highways.--No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(June 25, 1999, P.L.164, No.23, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days)
2001 Amendment. Act 37 amended subsec. (b).
1999 Amendment. Act 23 added section 4979.3.
Cross References. Section 4979.3 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979.4. Permit for movement of self-propelled cranes.
An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of self-propelled cranes which exceed the maximum width, height or length specified in Subchapter B (relating to width, height and length) or the maximum vehicle gross or maximum axle weights specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles).
(June 25, 1999, P.L.164, No.23, eff. 60 days; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days)
Cross References. Section 4979.4 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979.5. Permit for movement of nonhazardous liquid glue.
An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of nonhazardous liquid glue in bulk between a chemical plant and a particleboard or fiberboard manufacturing facility which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). Permits issued under this section shall not exceed a distance of 75 miles. The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 105,000 pounds overall gross weight and shall have the following maximum axle weight limits for all nonsteering axles:
|
Single axle |
21,000 pounds |
|
Tandem axles |
42,000 pounds |
|
Tridem axles |
53,000 pounds |
|
Quad axles |
63,000 pounds |
No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(Oct. 19, 2010, P.L.557, No.81, eff. 60 days)
2010 Amendment. Act 81 added section 4979.5. The preamble of Act 81 provided that Act 81 may be referred to as the Sgt. Michael C. Weigand Law.
Cross References. Section 4979.5 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
§ 4979.6. Permit for movement of waste tires.
An annual permit may be issued for the movement on specified highways of waste tires and tire derived-fuel, chipped tires, from a refuse pile to a preparation or power production facility which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). The weight of any vehicle permitted under this section may not exceed 95,000 pounds overall gross weight, and the weight on any nonsteering axle may not exceed 21,000 pounds. No permit may be issued for this type of movement upon an interstate highway.
(Oct. 19, 2010, P.L.557, No.81, eff. 60 days)
2010 Amendment. Act 81 added section 4979.6. The preamble of Act 81 provided that Act 81 may be referred to as the Sgt. Michael C. Weigand Law.
Cross References. Section 4979.6 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.
SUBCHAPTER E
MEASURING AND ADJUSTING VEHICLE
SIZE AND WEIGHT
Sec.
4981. Weighing and measurement of vehicles.
4982. Reducing or readjusting loads of vehicles.
4983. Penalty for failure to obey police officer (Repealed).
Cross References. Subchapter E is referred to in sections 4704, 6506 of this title.
§ 4981. Weighing and measurement of vehicles.
(a) Authority of police officers and qualified department employees.--A police officer or qualified department employee is authorized to require the driver of a vehicle or combination to stop and submit the vehicle or combination to be measured and weighed. Weighing may be done by using either portable or stationary scales, provided that when portable scales more than one inch in height are used, sufficient ramp blocks shall be made available to allow the vehicle or combination to mount the scales safely. The weighing shall be conducted by qualified personnel who have been trained in the use of weighing equipment in a training program approved by an agency of the Commonwealth. The personnel performing the weighing on all highways and interstates in this Commonwealth shall inform the drivers of the vehicle of the right to readjust or rearrange the load under section 4982(c) (relating to reducing or readjusting loads of vehicles). The driver or owner, if present, of a vehicle or combination may, at the time of weighing, witness in an orderly fashion the weighing procedure. If the driver wishes to witness the procedure from outside the cab of the vehicle, he shall be required to turn off the engine, put the transmission in gear and set the emergency brake before leaving the cab. A police officer or qualified department employee may require that a vehicle or combination be driven to the nearest stationary scales if the scales are within two miles.
(b) Scales on freeways.--The Department of Transportation, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania State Police, shall operate on freeways at points which it deems necessary scales and other equipment for detecting violations of the size and weight limitations prescribed by this chapter. The department may also contract with persons or local authorities to use their scales.
(c) Tolerance when weighing axles.--A 3% tolerance per axle shall be permitted when a vehicle is weighed on stationary or portable scales. This tolerance shall not apply on any interstate highway to vehicles weighed on stationary scales.
(d) Reweighing at request of driver or owner.--Whenever scales operated by other than the department indicate that a vehicle, wheel, axle or pair of axles is overweight, the driver or owner may elect to have the vehicle reweighed on the nearest available scales which have been certified by the Department of Agriculture. The lower reading of the two scales shall determine whether charges shall be filed under this section.
(e) Certification of accuracy of portable scales.--
(1) Portable scales shall be calibrated for the purpose of certification of accuracy by the Department of General Services. A certificate from the Department of General Services showing that portable scales were calibrated and found to be accurate shall be competent and prima facie evidence of those facts in every proceeding in which a violation of this chapter is charged.
(2) Portable scales shall be calibrated as follows:
(i) Annually.
(ii) Following any event that could affect the accuracy of the portable scale or following repairs or failures. If a portable scale is calibrated under this subparagraph, the portable scale shall not need to be calibrated for a period of one year.
(f) Certification of qualified personnel.--The competency of a witness to testify concerning the weighing of a vehicle may be established by a certificate from an agency of the Commonwealth showing that the person was trained in the use of weighing equipment in a training program approved by a Commonwealth agency. This certification shall be admissible as competent and prima facie evidence that the person is qualified and trained in the use of weighing equipment in such a training program.
(June 18, 1980, P.L.229, No.68, eff. 60 days; Oct. 10, 1980, P.L.791, No.147, eff. imd.; June 23, 1982, P.L.605, No.171, eff. imd.; June 19, 1985, P.L.49, No.20, eff. 60 days; July 8, 1986, P.L.432, No.90, eff. 60 days; Dec. 11, 1986, P.L.1530, No.166, eff. 60 days; Feb. 10, 1994, P.L.10, No.2, eff. imd.; June 22, 2001, P.L.559, No.37, eff. 60 days; Oct. 19, 2010, P.L.557, No.81, eff. 90 days)
2010 Amendment. Act 81 amended subsec. (e). The preamble of Act 81 provided that Act 81 may be referred to as the Sgt. Michael C. Weigand Law.
2001 Amendment. Act 37 amended subsecs. (a) and (e).
1994 Amendment. Act 2 amended subsecs. (a) and (e) and added subsec. (f).
1986 Amendment. Act 166 amended subsec. (c).
Cross References. Section 4981 is referred to in sections 4102, 4982 of this title; section 4150 of Title 3 (Agriculture).
§ 4982. Reducing or readjusting loads of vehicles.
(a) Violation of weight limitations.--If the gross weight or the weight upon any wheel, tire, axle or group of axles of a vehicle or combination exceeds the maximum allowed, the driver shall reduce or readjust the load so that the gross weight and the weight upon each wheel, tire, axle or group of axles will not exceed the maximum weights permitted under this chapter.
(b) Violation of size limitations.--If the load upon any vehicle or combination is such that the size limitations of this chapter are exceeded, the driver shall reduce or reposition the load so that it does not exceed the size limitations.
(c) Load adjustment to avoid prosecution.--If the gross weight of the vehicle or combination does not exceed the maximum allowable gross weight plus 3% tolerance for scale error and the weight upon any axle or group of axles is in excess of the maximum allowable axle weight, the operator shall be allowed four hours to adjust the position of the load so that the weight upon all wheels, tires, axles and groups of axles does not exceed the maximum allowable weights plus 3% tolerance for scale error as authorized in section 4981(c) (relating to weighing and measurement of vehicles). If the load is so rearranged no arrest shall be made or prosecution brought for violation of Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any loads which exceed the amount of weight for which a permit was issued.
(d) Load incapable of reduction.--If the load on any vehicle or combination is such that it is incapable of reduction or dismemberment and is otherwise eligible to move under permit as provided in Subchapter D (relating to special permits for excessive size and weight), a valid permit shall be obtained before any further movement of a vehicle or combination in violation of the limitations of this chapter.
(e) Responsibility of owner or driver.--All material unloaded and any vehicle or combination parked awaiting a permit shall be cared for by the owner or driver at the risk of the owner or driver.
(July 8, 1986, P.L.432, No.90, eff. imd.)
1986 Amendment. Act 90 amended subsec. (c).
Cross References. Section 4982 is referred to in sections 4945, 4981 of this title.
§ 4983. Penalty for failure to obey police officer (Repealed).
1985 Repeal. Section 4983 was repealed June 19, 1985, P.L.49, No.20, effective in 60 days.