South Dakota oversize load rules
Legal limits, pilot car requirements, travel restrictions, superload thresholds and permit fees for oversize and overweight loads in South Dakota.
Legal limits without a permit
| Width | 8′6″ |
|---|---|
| Height | 14′ (15′ for baled hay) |
| Length | Set by configuration in the Motor Carrier Handbook Table 7; measured on the vehicle, excluding overhang · 3′ front / 4′ rear overhang |
| Weight | 80,000 lb on Interstate (annual permit allows more); other highways by bridge formula and axle limits (20,000 single, 34,000 tandem) |
At a glance
| Escorts | 2 escort rules, starting at 16′ wide |
|---|---|
| Superload | 2 review triggers (height, weight) |
| Travel | 3 restrictions (curfews, night, holidays) |
| Fees | 4 published fee lines |
Escort (pilot car) requirements
- 2 width, height and length thresholds with the escort count for each
- Overhang and route-type conditions
Travel restrictions
- 3 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 South Dakota require an escort?
Over 16′ wide on the Interstate and over 20′ wide on the State Highway System, plus whenever the load extends more than 2′ into the next lane or traffic cannot pass safely. Escorts lead on undivided roads and follow on divided ones.
Can oversize loads move at night in South Dakota?
On the Interstate only if no escort is needed and the load is within 10′ wide, 14′6″ high and 110′ (combination). On other highways oversize loads do not move at night.
How much is a South Dakota oversize permit?
$25 per single trip; overweight adds 2¢ per ton-mile. Most extended-period permits are $60.
Sources
- SD Motor Carrier Handbook, Chapter 6: Vehicle Permits (escorts, night travel, fees)
- SD Motor Carrier Handbook, Chapter 5: Vehicle Size Regulations
- SD Motor Carrier Handbook, Chapter 5: Vehicle Weight Regulations
- SD Highway Patrol permitting information
Planning reference. Permits carry their own conditions, and city and county roads have separate rules. Confirm with the South Dakota Highway Patrol Permit Center (Pierre) before moving a load. Found an error? Report it.
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