Permits
Minnesota oversize permits are valid for five travel days. Must have permit prior to entering the state.
Operating Time
Sunrise to sunset can run without special lighting. Detailed information on operating times based on size and day is available here.
Restricted Travel
No travel on major holidays, some holiday weekends or on Fishing Opener Weekend in May. For certain vehicle dimensions, no travel during peak hours in Twin City Metro area and Duluth city limits unless specifically stated on permit.
Legal Dimensions
- Length: 75′ overall; 53′ semi-trailer; 43′ kingpin setting measured from kingpin to center of rear axle group. Utility Poles are exempt from permits only if the Bill of Lading lists the load as utility poles.
- Width: 8′-6″
- Height: 13′-6″
- Weight: Varies based on the number of axles and road type (designated/non-designated). Steer Axle – 600 pounds per inch of tire width (13,200 pounds with 11″ tires); Tandem – 34,000; Tridem – 42,000; Single – 20,000 Designated highways (18,000 other roads).
Routine Permit Limits
- Length: 95′ for two-vehicle combination (wheelbase of 75′); 103′ with a single pivot point.
- Width: 14′-6″, and up to 16′ for certain routes.
- Height: 14′ to 15′-6″ with route restrictions. Loads over 15′-6″ are highly restricted and a route survey is required.
- Weight: Specific limits for Single, Tandem, Tridem, Quad, Steer and Pusher Axle. You must be registered for at least the amount of weight you are permitting for Minnesota. Loads exceeding these dimensions or weights are considered as Super Loads.
Escorts
Detailed information on escort requirements based on dimensions is available here.
Seasonal Load (Weight) Restrictions
Winter load increases usually go into effect sometime in December. The start date changes from year to year. Over legal axle/group weights are usually not allowed during the spring thaw period, usually from about February 1 or March 1 (depending on zone) through early to mid May, then middle-range limits take effect until about May 31.
Signs, Flags & Lights
"Oversize Load" signs required when escorts are required or when over 12′ wide. They must be lit up to run at night. Flags (18″ square) are required whenever rear overhang exceeds 4′, or when vehicle/load exceeds 9′ in width or 75′ in length. Flags should be mounted at tip of overhang, at corners and widest points of load. Overhang exceeding 4′ requires light at night. Flashing amber lights are usually required on the permit when over 12′ wide.
