What Are Maine Oversize Permits?

Maine oversize permits are required for vehicles that exceed the state's authorized size and weight restrictions. These permits are valid for seven days and must be obtained prior to entering the state. Failure to get the correct permits might result in penalties, delays, and other issues that can impede your operations.

Understanding the Basics of Maine Oversize Permits.

To effectively operate the permitting process, it is critical to understand what defines an oversize load. In Maine, a load is deemed oversize if it exceeds the measurements below:

- Width: More than 8'6"

- Height: More than 13'6"

- Length: More than 53' for semi-trailers - Gross weight: More than 80,000 lbs.

If your load exceeds these dimensions, you must get an oversize permit to lawfully carry it over state borders.

Key Regulations for Oversized Load

1. Operating Hours: Vehicles with oversize permits may operate from one-half hour before dawn to one-half hour after sunset, seven days a week. However, weekend travel is forbidden in July and August.

2. Restricted Travel Areas: In places like Lewiston and Augusta, travel is limited during severe weather and peak hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM). In addition, a municipal authorization is necessary for transit through Augusta, and no movement is permitted on major holidays or some holiday weekends.

3. Maine Turnpike Restrictions: The turnpike has certain limits for excessive cargoes.
- Maximum height: 13'6".
- Maximum width: 14'6".
- Daylight travel limited from Monday to Friday till noon.
- Oversized loads are not permitted on the Turnpike on Friday afternoons, Saturdays, or Sundays.

Legal Dimensions and Weight Limits

Understanding the permissible dimensions for oversize loads is critical for compliance.

Length: Maximum length on Interstates and authorized highways: 74'.
The maximum length beyond the National Network is 125'.

Width: Maximum width permitted: 16'.

Height: Maximum height allowed: 16', with few exceptions allowing up to 14' if the load cannot be reduced.

Weight Limits: Gross weight limit of 80,000 lbs.
- Single axle maximum is 20,000 lbs.
- Tandem axle maximum is 34,000 lbs.
- Tridem axle limit: 42,000 pounds.

Loads that exceed these size or weight restrictions are classified as superloads and require supplementary permits.

Escort Requirements:

Escort requirements may vary according on the amount of your load.

- For weights over 80', one escort vehicle is required.
- For loads over 125', a police escort is necessary.
- Widths exceeding 12' (or above 11'11" on two-lane highways) may need an escort.

Safety Measures for Transport

When moving oversize load, safety should always come first. Here are a few prerequisites you must meet:

- Place "Oversize Load" indicators prominently in both the front and rear of the vehicle.
- Place flags measuring at least 18" x 18" on each corner of the load.
- Make sure the headlights are on low beam throughout transit.
- Install a flashing amber light or light bar on top of the cab.

Additionally, if your load has a back overhang of more than four feet, it must be properly indicated.

Other Permit Option Available.

At Note Trucking, we don't simply focus on Maine overweight permits. We can help with a variety of additional permits that may be required for your business:

Maine Overweight Permits: Required for vehicles that exceed weight limitations while remaining within permissible specifications.

Maine Single Trip Permits: These are ideal for one-time transportation needs that do not require a long-term permit.

Maine Truck Permits: General permits are required for all truck activities within the state.

Maine Toll way permits: Specific permits are necessary to travel on toll highways in Maine.


Why Choose Note Trucking?

Note Trucking understands how difficult it may be to understand the complexity of Maine's oversize permit laws. Our experienced team is committed to providing expert guidance throughout the permit application process. We make certain that you have the relevant papers and information before you hit the road.

Choosing Note Trucking for your permitting needs gives you the following benefits:

1. Proficiency in managing state restrictions.
2. Faster processing times for permit applications.
3. Full assistance during your trip.

Call Note Trucking at (949) 208-2371 for dependable service and skilled assistance with acquiring your Maine oversize permits! Allow us to assist you in conducting your business successfully while conforming to all state rules. Your adventure begins with us!