Maryland oversize load rules
Legal limits, pilot car requirements, travel restrictions, superload thresholds and permit fees for oversize and overweight loads in Maryland.
Legal limits without a permit
| Width | 8′6″ (102 in) |
|---|---|
| Height | 13′6″ |
| Length | Indivisible loads over 70′ need a permit (75′ for pilings, poles and logs) |
| Weight | 80,000 lb gross; Federal Bridge Formula |
At a glance
| Escorts | 8 escort rules, starting at 13′ wide |
|---|---|
| Superload | 4 review triggers (height, length, weight, width) |
| Travel | 5 restrictions (curfews, night, holidays) |
| Fees | 4 published fee lines |
Escort (pilot car) requirements
- 8 width, height and length thresholds with the escort count for each
- Police escort triggers
- Overhang and route-type conditions
Travel restrictions
- 5 restrictions: curfews, night travel, weekends and holidays
- Which ones apply to a given load size
Superloads
- Exact thresholds and what the state requires past them
- Lead times, route surveys and police escort conditions
Permit fees
- 4 published fee lines with links to the fee schedule
- Validity periods and add-on charges
Common questions
When does a load need an escort in Maryland?
Over 13′ wide, over 85′ long, 14′6″ or higher (a pole car), or over 60 tons gross. From 14′ wide or 140′ long, two escorts. From 16′ wide or 75 tons, a State Police escort.
Can oversize loads travel at night in Maryland?
Yes, for loads up to 225,000 lb, 13′11″ wide, 14′6″ high and 139′ long, which may move 24/7. Superloads over 150,000 lb have a separate 8 PM–6 AM night window.
What is a superload in Maryland?
Over 150,000 lb gross, or 16′ wide, 16′ high or 120′ long.
Sources
- MDOT SHA overdimensional permit limitations (escorts, travel times, superloads)
- MDOT SHA hauling permits
- Maryland Oversize/Overweight Hauling Permit Manual (PDF)
Planning reference. Permits carry their own conditions, and city and county roads have separate rules. Confirm with the MDOT State Highway Administration Hauling Permits Unit before moving a load. Found an error? Report it.
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