Weight, Size, Loads

V.S.A. tit. 23, ch. 13, subch. 15

in effect

23 V.S.A. § 1391 Tire and axle limits

1391. Tire and axle limits (a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a person or corporation shall not operate or cause to be operated a tractor, trailer, semi-trailer, motor truck, or any other motor vehicle without sufficient weight maintained upon the front axle of such vehicle to make such vehicle safe in operation, nor shall the maximum load on any axle of such vehicle exceed a gross weight of more than 600 pounds per inch of tire width computed in conformity with the manufacturer’s designated width. (b) No single axle load shall be in excess of 22,400 pounds and a 10 percent tolerance shall be allowed on each single axle load, nor shall any tandem axle load be in excess of 36,000 pounds, with a 10 percent tolerance allowed, except in the case of such vehicles owned by persons to whom special permits shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of section 1400 of this title. (c) Unless federal law authorizes the axle load limits, tolerances, or both, provided for in subsection (b) of this section to apply on those highways designated as the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, no single axle load on those highways shall be in excess of 20,000 pounds with no tolerance allowed, nor shall any tandem axle load be in excess of 34,000 pounds, with no tolerance allowed, except in the case of vehicles owned by persons to whom special permits have been issued in accordance with section 1400 of this title. Amended 1963, No. 206, § 4; 1964, No. 4 (Sp. Sess.), eff. Feb. 27, 1964; 1971, No. 226 (Adj. Sess.), § 6; 1977, No. 41, § 1, eff. April 19, 1977; 1983, No. 86, § 1; 1991, No. 72, § 4; 2009, No. 63 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. Jan. 13, 2010; 2009, No. 63 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. Dec. 17, 2010; 2011, No. 23, § 1, eff. May 11, 2011; 2021, No. 20, § 245.

23 V.S.A. § 1391a Penalties for overweight operation

1391a. Penalties for overweight operation (a) Civil penalties for violations of the following statutory sections shall be in accordance with the schedule established in this section: Statutory Citation | Name of Offense 23 V.S.A. § 1391 | Tire and axle limits 23 V.S.A. § 1392 | Gross limits on highways 23 V.S.A. § 1399 | Construction and maintenance equipment; fire apparatus 23 V.S.A. § 1400 | Permit to operate in excess of weight and size limits; State highways 23 V.S.A. § 1400a | Special local highway and bridge limits; reimbursement for damages; special permits 23 V.S.A. § 1407 | Operation of overweight vehicles 23 V.S.A. § 1408 | Operating vehicle in excess of registered capacity (b)(1) For violation of each of the statutory sections listed in subsection (a) of this section, civil penalties shall be imposed as follows: $15.00 for each 1,000 lbs. or portion thereof overweight for the first 5,000 lbs. overweight; $30.00 for each 1,000 lbs. or portion thereof overweight when the gross overweight is more than 5,000 lbs. and less than 10,001 lbs.; $45.00 for each 1,000 lbs. or portion thereof overweight when the gross overweight is more than 10,000 lbs. and less than 15,001 lbs.; $60.00 for each 1,000 lbs. or portion thereof overweight when the gross overweight is more than 15,000 lbs. and less than 20,001 lbs.; $90.00 for each 1,000 lbs. or portion thereof overweight when the gross overweight is more than 20,000 lbs. and less than 25,001 lbs.; and $150.00 for each 1,000 lbs. or portion thereof overweight when the gross overweight is more than 25,000 lbs. (2) Civil penalties for subsequent violations of subchapter 15, article 1 of this chapter shall be computed in accordance with subdivision (1) of this subsection with the following percentage increases: (A) upon a second conviction of a violation occurring within one year, five percent; (B) upon a third conviction of a violation occurring within one year, ten percent; and (C) upon a fourth or subsequent conviction occurring within one year, 15 percent. (3) In the calculation of gross overweight, the weight allowed by registration or permit, whichever is greater, shall be the basis. The tolerances allowed by sections 1391, 1392, 1408, and 1410 of this title shall not be considered in the calculation of gross overweight. (c) Notwithstanding any other provisions of law to the contrary, in a prosecution for a violation of those statutes listed in subsection (a) of this section, the proper defendant shall be either the owner or lessee of the vehicle or the person who moves or operates the vehicle. (d) Civil penalties imposed for violations of this section shall be deposited in the Transportation Fund, unless the civil penalties are the result of enforcement actions on a town highway by an enforcement officer employed by or under contract with the municipality, in which case the civil penalty shall be paid to the municipality, except for an administrative charge for each case in the amount specified in 13 V.S.A. § 7251, which shall be retained by the State. Added 1977, No. 177 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. May 1, 1978; amended 1983, No. 86, § 2; 1983, No. 192 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. April 27, 1984; 1989, No. 51, § 43; 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 4, eff. April 25, 1996; 1997, No. 120 (Adj. Sess.), § 9a; 1999, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 34; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 72; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 202; 2025, No. 18, § 42, eff. May 13, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1392 Gross weight limits on highways

1392. Gross weight limits on highways Except as provided in section 1400 of this title, a person shall not operate or cause to be operated a motor vehicle in excess of the total weight, including vehicle, object, or contrivance and load, of: (1) 16,000 pounds upon any bridge with a wood floor, wood subfloor, or wood stringers on a class 3 or 4 town highway or 20,000 pounds on a bridge with wood floor, wood subfloor, or wood stringers on a class 1 or 2 town highway unless otherwise posted by the selectboard of such town. (2) 24,000 pounds, upon a class 2, 3, or 4 town highway or bridge with other than wood floor, in any town or incorporated village. (3) No vehicle may exceed a gross weight in excess of 80,000 pounds unless the operator or owner of the vehicle has complied with the provisions of section 1400 of this title or except as otherwise provided in this section. (4) Subject to the limit upon the weight imposed upon the highway through any single or tandem axle as set forth in section 1391 of this title, the total gross weight of vehicle with load imposed upon the highway by all axles of a vehicle or combination of axles of a vehicle shall not be in excess of the value in pounds given for the respective distance between the first and last axle of the vehicle or combination of axle spacing for vehicles measured longitudinally to the nearest foot as set forth in the following table: Distance between the center of the first and center of the last axle of any group of two or more axles | Maximum load in pounds carried in any group of two or more axles computed to the nearest 500 pounds 2 axles | 3 axles | 4 axles | 5 axles | 6 axles | 7 axles 8 or less | 34,000 | 34,000 9 | 39,000 | 42,500 10 | 40,000 | 43,500 11 | 44,000 12 | 45,000 | 50,000 13 | 45,500 | 50,500 14 | 46,500 | 51,500 15 | 47,000 | 52,000 16 | 48,000 | 52,500 17 | 48,500 | 53,500 18 | 49,500 | 54,000 19 | 50,000 | 54,500 20 | 51,000 | 55,500 | 66,000 21 | 51,500 | 56,000 | 66,500 22 | 52,500 | 56,500 | 67,000 23 | 53,000 | 57,500 | 68,000 24 | 54,000 | 58,000 | 68,500 | 74,000 25 | 54,500 | 58,500 | 69,000 | 74,500 26 | 55,500 | 59,500 | 69,500 | 75,000 27 | 56,000 | 60,000 | 70,000 | 75,500 28 | 57,000 | 60,500 | 71,000 | 76,500 29 | 57,500 | 61,500 | 71,500 | 77,000 30 | 58,500 | 62,000 | 72,000 | 77,500 31 | 59,000 | 62,500 | 72,500 | 78,000 32 | 60,000 | 63,500 | 73,000 | 78,500 33 | 64,000 | 74,000 | 79,000 34 | 64,500 | 74,500 | 80,000 35 | 65,500 | 75,000 | 80,000 36 | 66,000 | 70,500 | 75,500 | 80,000 37 | 66,500 | 71,000 | 76,000 | 80,000 38 | 67,500 | 72,000 | 77,000 | 80,000 39 | 68,000 | 72,500 | 77,500 | 80,000 40 | 68,500 | 73,000 | 78,000 | 80,000 41 | 69,500 | 73,500 | 78,500 | 80,000 42 | 70,000 | 74,000 | 79,000 | 80,000 43 | 75,000 | 80,000 | 80,000 44 | 75,500 | 80,000 | 80,000 45 | 76,000 | 80,000 | 80,000 46 | 76,500 | 80,000 | 80,000 47 | 77,500 | 80,000 | 80,000 48 | 78,000 | 80,000 | 80,000 49 | 78,500 | 80,000 | 80,000 50 | 79,000 | 80,000 | 80,000 51 | 80,000 | 80,000 | 80,000 (5)(A) Despite the axle load provisions of section 1391 of this title and the distance in feet between first and last axle as provided for in subdivision (4) of this section, a motor truck having three axles, if the two rear axles are both power driven and both equipped with adequate brakes, the gross weight of the three axles of the truck shall not exceed 55,000 pounds. (B) When application is made to register a motor truck under the provisions of this subdivision, the applicant shall submit to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles specifications as to its make, brake equipment, and manufacturer’s recommended gross weight. In the Commissioner’s discretion, the Commissioner may refuse registration for its operation under this subdivision if the specifications for the vehicle would not permit its safe operation when so loaded. (6) Despite the axle load provisions of section 1391 of this title and the distance in feet between first and last axle as provided for in subdivision (4) of this section, a motor truck having four axles, three of which are a tri-axle and at least two axles in this group being power driven and equipped with adequate brakes; the gross weight of the four axles of the truck shall not exceed 60,000 pounds, however: (A) No two axles in the tri-axle group shall support more than 42,000 pounds with a 10 percent tolerance. (B) No single axle of the tri-axle group shall support more than 22,400 pounds with a 10 percent tolerance. (C) The total load supported by the tri-axle group shall not exceed 54,000 pounds. (D) Three or more axles within a distance of 12 feet or less apart shall be considered as a tri-axle group, and if a single axle is closer than eight feet to the nearest axle of the tri-axle group, the total load shall not exceed that allowed for a tri-axle group. (E) [Repealed.] (7)-(10) [Repealed.] (11) The weights or tolerances, or both, as set forth in subdivisions (5) and (6) of this section shall not apply to the highways designated as portions of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways unless authorized by federal law. (12) [Repealed.] (13) Despite the axle-load provisions of section 1391 of this title and the maximum gross load of subdivision (4) of this section, a special annual permit, which shall expire with the vehicle’s registration, except for vehicles not registered in Vermont, in which case the permit shall become void on January 1 following date of issue, may be issued to a person operating on designated routes on the State Highway System for a fee of $458.00 for each vehicle registered for a weight of 80,000 pounds. This special permit shall be issued only for a combination of vehicle and semi-trailer or trailer equipped with five or more axles, with a distance between axles that meets the minimum requirements of registering the vehicle to 80,000 pounds as allowed under subdivision (4) of this section. The maximum gross load under this special permit shall be 90,000 pounds. Unless authorized by federal law, this subdivision shall not apply to operation on the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. (14) Despite the axle-load provisions of section 1391 of this title and the axle spacing and maximum gross load provisions of subdivision (4) of this section, a special annual permit, which shall expire with the vehicle’s registration, except for vehicles not registered in Vermont, in which case the permit shall become void on January 1 following date of issue, may be issued to a person transporting loads on vehicles on designated routes on the State Highway System for the following fees for each vehicle unit. Unless authorized by federal law, the provisions of this subdivision regarding weight limits or tolerances, or both, shall not apply to operation on the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. This special permit shall be issued for the following vehicles and conditions: (A) 3-axle trucks with a single steering axle and a rear tandem axle that have a maximum gross weight of not more than 60,000 pounds when registered for a minimum gross weight of not more than 55,000 pounds, the permit fee shall be $187.00. (B) 4-axle trucks with a single steering axle and a rear tri-axle unit that have a maximum gross weight of not more than 69,000 pounds when registered for a minimum weight of 60,000 pounds, the permit fee shall be $422.00. (C) 4-axle tractor semi-trailer or truck trailer combination with a maximum gross weight of not more than 72,000 pounds, provided the distance between the second axle of the tractor and the rear axle of the trailer is at least 24 feet measured to the nearest foot. For each foot or fraction of a foot less than 24 feet, measured to the nearest foot, a reduction of 2,000 pounds in the maximum gross weight shall be made. The permit fee shall be $18.00. (D) 5- or more axle tractor semi-trailer or truck trailer combination with a maximum gross weight of not more than 76,000 pounds, provided that the distance between the first and last axle of two consecutive sets of tandem axles is at least 24 feet measured to the nearest foot. For each foot or fraction of a foot less than 24 feet, measured to the nearest foot, a reduction of 2,000 pounds in the maximum gross weight shall be made. The permit fee shall be $18.00. (E) No single axle of a tandem axle unit shall support more than 60 percent of the total weight supported by such tandem axle unit. (F) No single axle of a tri-axle unit shall support more than 40 percent of the total weight supported by such tri-axle unit. (G) The maximum load on any axle of such vehicle shall not exceed more than 600 pounds per inch of tire width computed in conformity with the manufacturer’s designated width. (H) A five percent tolerance shall be allowed on the gross vehicle weights allowed under permits issued pursuant to this subdivision. (15) Despite the axle load provisions of section 1391 of this title and the axle spacing and the maximum gross load of subdivision (4) of this section, a 5-axle tractor semi-trailer may operate on State highways with the following conditions: (A) For each foot or fraction of a foot less than 36 feet between the first and last axle of two consecutive sets of tandem axles, a reduction of 2,000 pounds in the maximum gross weight of 80,000 pounds shall be made. (B) Conditions in subdivisions (14)(D) and (F) of this section shall also apply to this subdivision (B), and unless authorized by federal law, this subdivision shall not apply to operation on the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. (16) Notwithstanding the axle load provisions of section 1391 of this title and the maximum gross load of subdivision (4) of this section, a five or more axle truck tractor, semi-trailer combination, or truck trailer combination, when the load consists solely of unprocessed milk products as defined in subdivision 4(55) of this title, may be registered for and operated with a maximum gross weight of 90,000 pounds on State highways without permit and upon posted State and town highways when the vehicle has been issued a permit in compliance with the provisions of section 1400 of this title; however: (A) Vehicles operated pursuant to this subdivision (16) shall be subject to the same axle spacing restrictions as are applied to five or more axle vehicles registered to 80,000 pounds as set forth in subdivision (4) of this section. (B) Unless prohibited by federal law, the provisions of this subdivision (16) shall apply to operation on the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. (C) [Repealed.] (17) Notwithstanding the gross vehicle weight provisions of subdivision (4) of this section, a truck trailer combination or truck tractor, semi-trailer combination with six or more load-bearing axles registered for 80,000 pounds shall be allowed to bear a maximum of 99,000 pounds by special annual permit, which shall expire with the vehicle’s registration, except for vehicles not registered in Vermont, in which case the permit shall become void on January 1 following the date of issue, for operating on designated routes on State and town highways, subject to the following: (A) The combination of vehicles must have, as a minimum, a distance of 51 feet between extreme axles. (B) The axle weight provisions of section 1391 of this title and the axle weight provisions of subdivisions (6)(A)–(D) of this section shall also apply to vehicles permitted under this subdivision (17). (C) When determining the civil penalty for a gross overweight violation of this subdivision (17), the civil penalty for any portion of the first 10,000 pounds over the permitted weight shall be the same as provided in section 1391a of this title, and for overweight violations 10,001 pounds or more over the permitted weight, the civil penalty schedule provided in section 1391a shall be doubled. (D) The weight permitted by this subdivision (17) shall be allowed for foreign trucks that are registered or permitted for 99,000 pounds in a state or province that recognizes Vermont vehicles for weights consistent with this subdivision (17). (E) Unless authorized by federal law, the provisions of this subdivision (17) shall not apply to operation on the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. (F) The fee for the annual permit as provided in this subdivision (17) shall be $458.00 for vehicles bearing up to 90,000 pounds and $671.00 for vehicles bearing up to 99,000 pounds. (G) [Repealed.] (18) The owner of any Vermont or foreign registered motor vehicle seeking permits authorized by this section shall make application for the appropriate permits and pay the appropriate permit fees. (19)(A) A person issued a permit under the provisions of subdivision (13), (14), or (17) of this section, and upon payment of a $10.00 administrative fee for each additional permit, may obtain additional permits for the same vehicle, provided the additional permit is for a lesser weight and provided the vehicle or combination of vehicles meets the minimum requirements for the permit sought as set forth in this section. (B) A person issued a permit under the provisions of subdivision (14) of this section, and upon payment of the difference in fees for each permit sought, may obtain additional permits for the same vehicle, provided the vehicle or combination of vehicles meets the minimum requirements for the permit sought as set forth in this section. (C) [Repealed.] (20) [Repealed.] (21) [Repealed.] Amended 1959, No. 63, eff. March 27, 1959; 1961, No. 94, eff. May 3, 1961; 1961, No. 281, §§ 1-5; 1963, No. 206, § 5; 1967, No. 166, eff. April 15, 1967; 1967, No. 385 (Adj. Sess.), § 1; 1975, No. 232 (Adj. Sess.), § 10, eff. April 7, 1976; 1977, No. 15; 1977, No. 41, § 2, eff. April 19, 1977; 1977, No. 177 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 2-4, 12, eff. May 1, 1978; 1981, No. 172 (Adj. Sess.), § 11a; 1983, No. 86, § 3; 1983, No. 192 (Adj. Sess.), § 2, eff. April 27, 1984; 1985, No. 124 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 1987, No. 145 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 3, 4, eff. May 13, 1988; 1987, No. 187 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 1, 2; 1989, No. 168 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 1, 2, eff. May 12, 1990; 1989, No. 192 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 1, 2; 1991, No. 68, §§ 1-3, eff. June 24, 1991; 1991, No. 72, §§ 2, 3; 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 5, eff. April 25, 1996; 2001, No. 102 (Adj. Sess.), § 26, eff. May 15, 2002; 2001, No. 141 (Adj. Sess.), §§ 38, 39, eff. June 21, 2002; 2003, No. 70 (Adj. Sess.), § 29, eff. March 1, 2004; 2007, No. 61, § 7; 2009, No. 50, § 51; 2009, No. 63 (Adj. Sess.), § 2, eff. Jan. 13, 2010; 2009, No. 63 (Adj. Sess.), § 4, eff. Dec. 17, 2010; 2011, No. 23, § 2, eff. May 11, 2011; 2015, No. 159 (Adj. Sess.), § 42; 2017, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 30, eff. Jan. 1, 2019; 2021, No. 20, § 246; 2023, No. 41, § 21, eff. July 1, 2023; 2023, No. 41, § 23, eff. June 1, 2023; 2023, No. 78, § G.135, eff. Jan. 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1392a Authority of Commissioner to delegate permitting functions

1392a. Authority of Commissioner to delegate permitting functions The Commissioner may delegate any person as his or her agent to perform the duties set forth in sections 1392, 1400 through 1404, 1406, 1415, and 1431 of this title with respect to permits. Added 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 6, eff. April 25, 1996.

23 V.S.A. § 1393 Weight limits in cities; adoption by towns or incorporated villages of State limits; limits on class 1 town highways

1393. Weight limits in cities; adoption by towns or incorporated villages of State limits; limits on class 1 town highways (a)(1) On all highways in a city, the legal load shall be as prescribed for the State Highway System in section 1392 of this title, unless otherwise restricted and posted by the local authorities as provided in this subchapter. (2) With the approval of the Secretary of Transportation, the legislative body of a town or incorporated village may designate any highway under its jurisdiction to carry the same legal load as specified in section 1392 of this title for the State Highway System. When a certain highway has been so approved by the Secretary and the legislative body as to the legal load limit, then the Secretary shall have the highway posted for the legal load limit. (3) Except as provided in subdivision 1392(1) of this title, State Highway System weight limits as specified in section 1392 of this title shall apply to class 1 town highways. (b) [Repealed.] (c) [Repealed.] Added 1991, No. 214 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. May 27, 1992; 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 7; 2015, No. 47, § 32; 2017, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 31, eff. Jan. 1, 2019.

23 V.S.A. § 1394 Designation of class 1 town highways

1394. Designation of class 1 town highways The class 1 town highways connecting the State highways through cities, villages, or municipalities shall be designated by the State Transportation Board and marked by the State Secretary of Transportation. The State Secretary of Transportation shall have signs erected on each road that leads off the State Highway System stating the legal load of the highway leading from the State Highway System. Amended 1975, No. 7, eff. Feb. 14, 1975.

23 V.S.A. § 1396 Special weight limits for bridges and highways

1396. Special weight limits for bridges and highways (a) When, in the opinion of the Secretary of Transportation, a highway or bridge on the State Highway System or class 1 town highway, or when, in the opinion of the legislative body of a municipality, any class 2, 3, or 4 town highway or bridge under the jurisdiction of the municipality may be varied from the weight limit specified in section 1392 of this title, then the Secretary of Transportation for the State Highway System or the legislative body may designate the legal load limit for the highway or bridge. However, when the legislative body of a municipality requests in writing, the Secretary of Transportation may set the weight limit on a class 1 town highway at less than the State highway limit under section 1392 of this title, if a reasonable alternative route is available for those vehicles traveling at the State highway limit. (b) In making the determination as to whether a reasonable alternative route is available, the Secretary of Transportation shall, at a minimum, consider the following factors: (1) whether the alternative routing will reduce or relieve traffic congestion in a downtown area; (2) whether the alternative routing will enhance safety; (3) the length of the alternative route and any increase in time made necessary by use of the alternative route; and (4) whether an adverse effect has been created relative to the quiet enjoyment and property values of persons living along the alternative route. (c) Any decision of the Secretary made under this section may be appealed, in writing, to the Transportation Board within 30 days after the Secretary’s decision. The Transportation Board shall decide the question within 45 days after receipt of the appeal and may take evidence or testimony. Except as otherwise provided, the designated legal load limit for the highway or bridge shall not be less than 20,000 pounds for a single traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle for the State system or any class 1 or 2 town highway nor less than 16,000 pounds for any other town highway. Amended 1993, No. 61, § 27, eff. June 3, 1993; 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 8; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 203; 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 43, eff. July 1, 2022; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 295, eff. July 1, 2024; 2025, No. 18, § 42, eff. May 13, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1397 Weight limit signs

1397. Weight limit signs (a) When the weight limit on a highway or bridge has been adjusted by the Secretary of Transportation, the selectboard of a town, the trustees of an incorporated village, or the city council of a city, as to the legal load limit, then the Secretary, selectboard, trustees, or city council shall have each restricted highway or bridge posted for the legal load limit permitted. The notices shall be of a permanent nature and shall be placed at each end of each restricted highway in each town, village, or city affected or on the approaches to each restricted bridge. The notices shall state the legal load limit permitted to be operated over the highway or bridge. (b) The notices specified in subsection (a) of this section may be omitted when the restricted highway is a class 4 town highway or a class 3 town highway serving only one residence. Amended 1991, No. 214 (Adj. Sess.), § 5, eff. May 27, 1992; 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; 1995, No. 73 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 44, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1397a Special limits for covered bridges

1397a. Special limits for covered bridges The legislative body of a municipality where a covered bridge is located or, if parts of such a bridge are located in more than one municipality, the legislative bodies of the municipalities where a covered bridge is located acting jointly may, after consultation with the Agency of Transportation, restrict the use of the bridge to vehicles that are within limits as to one or more of the following, as they shall establish: weight, height, or width. Any limitation shall be permanently posted by the municipality, with signs that conform to the standards established by section 1025 of this title, approximately 100 feet from the approaches to the bridge and at intersections as may be required to enable operators of restricted vehicles to proceed by the most direct alternate unrestricted route. Added 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 45, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1398 Certified statement to be filed

1398. Certified statement to be filed A certified statement shall be filed with the clerk in each municipality in which a posting, as provided in sections 1397 and 1397a of this subchapter, occurs that states the location of the highway or bridge posted, the legal limit or limits to which the highway or bridge is restricted, and the date of posting. If a restriction is removed at any time by the Secretary of Transportation or legislative body of the municipality, or both, a similar certified statement of the removal shall be filed with the clerk of the municipality. Amended 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 46, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1399 Exceptions for construction and maintenance equipment; fire apparatus; and heavy-duty tow and recovery vehicles

1399. Exceptions for construction and maintenance equipment; fire apparatus; and heavy-duty tow and recovery vehicles (a) As used in this section, “heavy-duty tow and recovery vehicle” means a vehicle that: (1) is transporting a disabled vehicle from the place where the vehicle became disabled to the nearest appropriate repair facility; and (2) has a gross vehicle weight that is equal to or exceeds the gross vehicle weight of the disabled vehicle being transported. (b) Nothing contained in sections 1391–1398 of this subchapter shall restrict the weight of: (1) Snow plows, road machines, oilers, traction engines, tractors, rollers, power shovels, dump wagons, trucks, or other construction or maintenance equipment when used by any town, incorporated village, city, or the State in the construction or the maintenance of any highway, provided that such construction or maintenance is performed by persons employed by or under contract with such town, incorporated village, city, or the State for this purpose. However, any operation of motorized highway building equipment or road making appliances used in construction work contracted by a town, incorporated village, city, or the State shall be unrestricted as to weight only within a construction area. (2) Municipal and volunteer fire apparatus and law enforcement motor vehicles. (3) Heavy-duty tow and recovery vehicles on the Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways. Amended 1991, No. 121 (Adj. Sess.); 2019, No. 149 (Adj. Sess.), § 14, eff. July 13, 2020; 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 47, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1400 Permit to operate in excess of weight and size limits; State highways

1400. Permit to operate in excess of weight and size limits; State highways (a) A person owning or operating a traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle that desires to operate it over State highways or class 1 town highways in excess of the weight and size limits provided by this subchapter shall apply to the Commissioner for a permit. In the Commissioner’s discretion, with or without hearing, the Commissioner may issue to the person a permit authorizing the person to operate the traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle upon State highways and class 1 town highways as the Commissioner may designate and containing the regulation subject to which the traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle is to be operated. The permit shall not be granted until satisfactory proof is furnished to the Commissioner that the traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle has been registered and the prescribed fee paid for a gross weight equal to a maximum legal load limit for its class. No additional registration fee shall be payable to authorize the use of the traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle in accordance with the terms of the permit. The approval may be withdrawn for cause and may be withdrawn without cause any time after March 31 next following the date of issuance. When approval is withdrawn for cause or on March 31, the Commissioner shall immediately revoke the permit; when approval is withdrawn otherwise, the Commissioner shall revoke the permit within one month after withdrawal. (b) The provisions of this section shall apply to any vehicle registered in another state, provided the vehicle meets all weight and size requirements of this State and is registered or holds a permit in the other state for the weight that the permit is sought. (c) In addition, the Commissioner may issue permits to operate vehicles in excess of the size limits provided by this subchapter for operation over any class 2, class 3, or class 4 town highways except when the dimensions are such that blanket permits cannot be issued under the duly adopted rules of the Commissioner. In those instances, permits under section 1400a of this title shall be obtained. (d) [Repealed.] (e) Notwithstanding any other statute or rule to the contrary, overweight permits shall not be issued to vehicles registered in another state or province, unless that state or province issues similar permits on a reciprocal basis to vehicles registered in Vermont. Amended 1961, No. 281, § 6; 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. March 25, 1970; 1975, No. 232 (Adj. Sess.), § 11, eff. April 7, 1976; 1987, No. 91, § 8, eff. June 22, 1987; 1989, No. 121, § 20d; 1993, No. 27, § 7, eff. May 19, 1993; 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 5; 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 9, eff. April 25, 1996; 1999, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 14; 2013, No. 189 (Adj. Sess.), § 18; 2015, No. 158 (Adj. Sess.), § 73; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 296, eff. July 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1400a Special local highway and bridge limits; reimbursement for damages; special permits

1400a. Special local highway and bridge limits; reimbursement for damages; special permits (a) A person or corporation owning or operating a traction engine, tractor trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle that desires to operate it in excess of the weight limits provided in this subchapter over highways and bridges under the jurisdiction of a municipality with the exception of class 1 town highways and subject to the provisions of subsection 1400(c) of this title shall make application for a permit to the appropriate legislative body or its designee. (b) The application form for such a permit shall be of a uniform type and shall be developed by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, after consulting with municipal officials and representatives of the State’s trucking industry. (c)(1) The selectboard, trustees, or the mayor are authorized to accept for the municipality compensation commensurate with the extra wear or maintenance required on the highway traveled over or on any bridge by reason of the overweight allowed by any permit approved by them or any exemption provided under section 1400d of this title, which shall be used for the maintenance of highways and bridges within the town, village, or city. The following factors, at a minimum, shall be taken into consideration when determining the amount of compensation due: (A) the amount of weight allowed in excess of the normal limit; (B) the configuration and number of axles of the vehicle involved; (C) the number and length of trips the vehicle will be making; and (D) the condition of the highway before and after use by the vehicle and costs associated with any needed repair. (2) If the agreement for the compensation to be paid is in writing, failure on the part of the applicant to pay the sum or sums agreed upon shall be sufficient cause for the selectboard, trustees, or mayor to withdraw approval for the permit. A fee not in excess of $5.00 may be charged for the written approval of a municipality furnished under this section. (d) A $5.00 fee for administration of permits imposed under this section shall be for the period expiring March 31 of each year. As an alternative, upon payment of an administrative fee of $10.00, an applicant may obtain a permit to operate all of his or her registered vehicles in that municipality, under the conditions of the permit, for the period of the permit. In the event a fleet permit is obtained, individual permits need not be carried in each vehicle permitted. Added 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 6; amended 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 10, eff. April 25, 1996; 2003, No. 56, § 54, eff. June 4, 2003; 2003, No. 109 (Adj. Sess.), § 10; 2025, No. 18, § 42, eff. May 13, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1400b Filing of restrictions, publication

1400b. Filing of restrictions, publication (a) Any municipality that has enacted special weight limits that are other than State legal limits for highways or bridges within its jurisdiction shall file a complete copy of the limitations with the Department of Motor Vehicles each year. The information filed shall contain a concise listing of each highway or bridge posted; the time of the year the restrictions apply; weight limitations in effect on that highway or bridge; and the name, address, and telephone number of the principal person or persons responsible for issuing the local permit. Additions or deletions to the listing may be made from time to time, as required, by filing with the Department. (b) Any special municipal weight limits on highways or bridges shall be unenforceable unless they are on file with the Department of Motor Vehicles within three working days of the date of posting. It shall be the responsibility of the municipality to keep records documenting the time and date a highway or bridge is posted and to keep current restrictions on file with the Department. The Department may prescribe the format that is to be used when filing restrictions under this section. (c) The Department shall publish, on an annual basis, a list of municipal highways or bridges and their current weight limits. This publication shall be based on the information submitted by the municipalities under subsection (a) of this section, as well as information available through the Agency of Transportation, and shall be available to the public, at a charge not in excess of $25.00, on or before April 1 of each year. (d) The Department shall also publish, on a quarterly basis, a periodic update of current weight limits for municipal highways and bridges and shall make that available to the general public at a cost of not more than $5.00. (e) Any person may request information on specific municipalities from the Department and shall pay the Department a fee of $3.00 per request. A single request shall be made for information on each municipality. In the event nothing is filed by a particular municipality, the Department shall provide that information, in written form, and charge the $3.00 fee. (f) The Commissioner may require prepayments for information requested pursuant to this section. Added 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 7, eff. Jan. 1, 1995; amended 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 53, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1400c Gross limits on town highways and bridges

1400c. Gross limits on town highways and bridges When a town bridge or highway is posted for State limits, the gross weight limits on town highways and bridges shall be the weight allowed by the State, including any additional weight allowed by permit. Added 1993, No. 186 (Adj. Sess.), § 8.

23 V.S.A. § 1400d Agricultural service vehicles

1400d. Agricultural service vehicles (a) An agricultural service vehicle, as defined in subdivision 4(71) of this title, shall be exempt from the provisions of sections 1400 and 1400a and subsection 1434(c) of this subchapter if the gross weight does not exceed 60,000 pounds. (b) Municipalities shall not be liable for injuries or damages to agricultural service vehicles or their operators that result from crossing a posted bridge with an agricultural service vehicle that weighs more than the posted weight limit. Added 2003, No. 109, (Adj. Sess.), § 9; amended 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 48, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1401 Contents of permit

1401. Contents of permit (a) The Commissioner of Motor Vehicles shall incorporate in the permit such descriptive matter as to the highways to be traveled over; the Commissioner’s restrictions as to width and character of the wheels of such tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle; and other rules as in the Commissioner’s judgment seem most conducive to a proper use of the highways. (b) The Commissioner shall adopt rules under 3 V.S.A. chapter 25 governing the conditions to be incorporated in the permit. These rules shall also assign each condition to one of three categories, depending on the seriousness of a violation of the condition. (c) Violation of a rule adopted under this section shall constitute a traffic violation. (d) A person who violates a rule adopted under this section shall be subject to the following penalties: $100.00 for a Category I violation; $200.00 for a Category II violation; and $300.00 for a Category III violation. Amended 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 2, eff. March 25, 1970; 1997, No. 120 (Adj. Sess.), § 9b, eff. Aug. 1, 1998; 2025, No. 18, § 42, eff. May 13, 2025.

23 V.S.A. § 1402 Overweight, width, height, and length permits; fees

1402. Overweight, width, height, and length permits; fees (a) Overweight, overwidth, indivisible overlength, and overheight permits. Overweight, overwidth, indivisible overlength, and overheight permits shall be signed by the Commissioner or by the Commissioner’s agent and a copy shall be kept in the office of the Commissioner or in a location approved by the Commissioner. Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, a copy shall also be available in the towing vehicle and must be available for inspection on demand of a law enforcement officer. Before operating a traction engine, tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle, the person to whom a permit to operate in excess of the weight, width, indivisible overlength, and height limits established by this title is granted shall pay a fee of $48.00 for each single trip permit or $135.00 for a blanket permit, except that the fee for a fleet blanket permit shall be $135.00 for the first unit and $8.00 for each unit thereafter. At the option of a carrier, an annual permit for the entire fleet, to operate over any approved route, may be obtained for $135.00 for the first tractor and $8.00 for each additional tractor, up to a maximum fee of $1,000.00. The fee for a fleet permit shall be based on the entire number of tractors owned by the applicant. An applicant for a fleet permit may apply for any number of specific routes, each of which shall be reviewed with regard to the characteristics of the route and the type of equipment operated by the applicant. When the weight or size of the vehicle-load are considered sufficiently excessive for the routing requested, the Agency of Transportation shall, on request of the Commissioner, conduct an engineering inspection of the vehicle-load and route, for which a fee of $300.00 will be added to the cost of the permit if the load is a manufactured home. For all other loads of any size or with gross weight limits less than 150,000 pounds, the fee shall be $800.00 for any engineering inspection that requires up to eight hours to conduct. If the inspection requires more than eight hours to conduct, the fee shall be $800.00 plus $60.00 per hour for each additional hour required. If the vehicle and load weigh 150,000 pounds or more but not more than 200,000 pounds, the engineering inspection fee shall be $2,000.00. If the vehicle and load weigh more than 200,000 pounds but not more than 250,000 pounds, the engineering inspection fee shall be $5,000.00. If the vehicle and load weigh more than 250,000 pounds, the engineering inspection fee shall be $10,000.00. The study must be completed prior to the permit being issued. Prior to the issuance of a permit, an applicant whose vehicle weighs 150,000 pounds or more, or is 15 or more feet in width or height, shall file with the Commissioner a special certificate of insurance showing minimum coverage of $250,000.00 for death or injury to one person, $500,000.00 for death or injury to two or more persons, and $250,000.00 for property damage, all arising out of any one crash. (b) Overlength permits. Except as provided in subsections 1432(c) and (e) of this title, it shall be necessary to obtain an overlength permit as follows: (1) For vehicles with a trailer or semitrailer longer than 75 feet, anywhere in the State on highways approved by the Agency of Transportation. In such cases, the vehicle may be operated with a single trip overlength permit issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles for a fee of $34.00. If the vehicle is 100 feet or more in length, the permit applicant shall file with the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles a special certificate of insurance showing minimum coverage of $250,000.00 for death or injury to one person, $500,000.00 for death or injury to two or more persons, and $250,000.00 for property damage, all arising out of any one crash. (2) [Repealed.] (c) Prepayment of permit fees. The Commissioner of Motor Vehicles may accept prepayments of fees under section 1400 of this title. A prepayment shall be credited to the account of the person making the prepayment and the account shall be reduced to the extent of any fees due from that person under this section; provided, however, fees may not be charged to the account in excess of the account balance. Upon oral application of any person having prepaid fees, the Commissioner may issue a permit with an identifying number, and the permit shall become effective immediately. Upon application, the Commissioner shall return any unused portion of the prepayment to the person originally making the prepayment. (d) [Repealed.] (e) “Low-bed” trailer permit. (1) The Commissioner may issue an annual permit to allow the transportation of a so-called “low-bed” trailer. A “low-bed” trailer is defined as a trailer manufactured for the primary purpose of carrying heavy equipment on a flat-surfaced deck, which deck is at a height equal to or lower than the top of the rear axle group. (2) A blanket permit may be obtained for an annual fee of $275.00 per unit, provided the total vehicle length does not exceed 75 feet, does not exceed a loaded width of 12′6″, does not exceed a total weight of 108,000 lbs., and has a height not exceeding 14 feet. (3) Warning signs and flags shall be required if the vehicle exceeds 75 feet in length or exceeds 8′6″ in width. (4) [Repealed.] (f) Single trip permit; duration. A single trip permit issued under this section shall be valid for seven business days. Amended 1959, No. 106, eff. April 14, 1959; 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. March 25, 1970; 1987, No. 95, § 2, eff. June 23, 1987; 1989, No. 51, § 44; 1995, No. 47, §§ 11, 12, eff. April 20, 1995; 1995, No. 183 (Adj. Sess.), § 18m, eff. May 22, 1996; 1997, No. 46, §§ 1-3; 1999, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 15, eff. Aug. 1, 2000; 2003, No. 70 (Adj. Sess.), § 30, eff. March 1, 2004; 2007, No. 153 (Adj. Sess.), § 8; 2009, No. 50, § 52; 2009, No. 123 (Adj. Sess.), § 56; 2013, No. 189 (Adj. Sess.), § 19; 2015, No. 159 (Adj. Sess.), § 43; 2017, No. 71, § 15, eff. June 8, 2017; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 204; 2023, No. 78, § G.136, eff. Jan. 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1403 Expiration or revocation

1403. Expiration or revocation Blanket permits shall expire at the same time as the vehicle’s registration but may be revoked for cause by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles with or without hearing. Amended 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 4, eff. March 25, 1970; 1987, No. 95, § 1, eff. June 23, 1987; 2003, No. 109 (Adj. Sess.), § 11.

23 V.S.A. § 1404 Bond required

1404. Bond required In his or her discretion, the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles shall require the applicant to file a bond of certificate of insurance in such amount as in his or her judgment seems adequate to cover any probable damage that may be occasioned by the use and operation of such tractor, trailer, motor truck, or other motor vehicle, executed by the applicant as principal and by a surety company authorized to transact business in this State as surety, conditional to pay all injuries or damages sustained by the State or by any municipality or person in consequence of the failure to comply with the provisions of such permit, or the excessive weight allowed by such permit, or the careless, negligent, or unlawful act of such principal or his or her agents or servants. Amended 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 5, eff. March 25, 1970.

23 V.S.A. § 1405 Actions against the bond

1405. Actions against the bond The State, a person, or a municipal corporation injured by any careless, negligent, or unlawful act of or failure of the principal or his or her agents or servants to comply with the provisions of such permit or on account of the injury to a highway, bridge, or culvert because of the excessive weight allowed by such permit, and, if the death of any person is caused by any careless, negligent, or unlawful act as aforesaid, the executor or administrator, shall have a right of action in the name of the obligee named in such bond for his or her, its, or their use and benefits against the principal and surety named in such bond and may prosecute the same to final judgment and execution. Amended 1961, No. 281, § 7.

23 V.S.A. § 1406 Federally owned vehicles

1406. Federally owned vehicles In case of oilers, tractors, rollers, dump wagons, and other road machinery and trucks, tractors, and trailers owned and operated by the federal government, a permit may be issued by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. The furnishing of a bond in such cases shall be in the discretion of such Commissioner. Amended 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 6, eff. March 25, 1970.

23 V.S.A. § 1407 Operation of overweight vehicles

1407. Operation of overweight vehicles A motor truck, truck tractor, tractor, trailer, or other vehicle, machine, or contrivance shall not be operated over the highways of the State of Vermont in violation of any provision of this title relative to the weight of the vehicle, machine, or contrivance. In a prosecution for these violations, the proper defendant shall be either the owner or lessee of the vehicle, machine, or contrivance or the person who moves or operates the vehicle, machine, or contrivance. Amended 1971, No. 228 (Adj. Sess.), § 23; 1995, No. 89 (Adj. Sess.), § 1.

23 V.S.A. § 1408 Operating vehicle in excess of registered capacity

1408. Operating vehicle in excess of registered capacity A motor truck, tractor, trailer, or other vehicle, machine, or contrivance shall not be operated or moved upon any highway with a gross weight, including load and vehicle, greater than the total registered weight of the vehicle and the declared registered capacity thereof and a tolerance of five percent. In a prosecution for a violation of this section, the proper defendant shall be either the owner or lessee of the vehicle, machine, or contrivance or the person who operates the vehicle, machine, or contrivance. This section shall not apply to the operation of a motor truck, tractor, trailer, or other vehicle, machine, or contrivance while being operated strictly in compliance with and in conformity to the provisions of a permit so to do issued by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles as otherwise provided in this title. Amended 1959, No. 97, eff. April 8, 1959; 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 7, eff. March 25, 1970; 1971, No. 228 (Adj. Sess.), § 24; 1983, No. 86, § 4; 1995, No. 89 (Adj. Sess.), § 2.

23 V.S.A. § 1409 Weighing of vehicles

1409. Weighing of vehicles Any uniformed police officer, having reason to believe that the weight of the vehicle and load is unlawful, may stop such motor vehicles up to one hour for the purpose of determining the weight of said vehicle and load. If the operator does not wish to submit to the weighing of such vehicle and load by means of portable scales, he or she may demand that such vehicle be weighed at the nearest public scales reasonably available; however, if public scales are not reasonably available, the officer may require the vehicle to be weighed on portable scales. The officer may demand that the vehicle be weighed at the nearest public scales reasonably available. Amended 1977, No. 177 (Adj. Sess.), § 5, eff. May 1, 1978; 1983, No. 86, § 5.

23 V.S.A. § 1410 Removal of overloads

1410. Removal of overloads (a)(1) When the gross weight of such vehicle and load is determined to be at least 10,000 lbs. in excess of the weight limits for such trucks on such highways, the enforcement officer may require that such portion of the load that is found to be in excess of these weights be removed. (2) When it is determined that portions of these loads referred to in this section must be removed, the truck may be driven to a suitable place for such removal. The enforcement officer may require that portions be removed onto another motor vehicle. (b) Dispositions of property referred to in subsection (a) of this section shall be treated under the provisions of section 1413 of this title. Amended 1983, No. 86, § 6.

23 V.S.A. § 1411 Refusal to weigh vehicle or remove overload

1411. Refusal to weigh vehicle or remove overload An operator of a motor truck shall not fail or refuse to stop or submit the vehicle and load to weighing, or fail or refuse when directed by an officer upon weighing of the vehicle to stop the vehicle and otherwise comply with the provisions of sections 1409 and 1410 of this title. A person violating this section or section 1410 shall be fined not less than $500.00 nor more than $2,500.00 and, at the time of the violation, the officer may impound the vehicle and have it weighed and after weighing and upon payment of towing charges, the vehicle shall be released or disposed of under the provisions of section 1413 of this title. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 1412 of this title, a violator may have sanctions imposed under the provisions of this section and be additionally fined for violation of other weight regulations provided for by this subchapter. Amended 1971, No. 228 (Adj. Sess.), § 25; 1977, No. 177 (Adj. Sess.), § 6, eff. May 1, 1978; 1983, No. 86, § 7.

23 V.S.A. § 1412 Multiple weight violations

1412. Multiple weight violations No more than one overweight violation per vehicle shall be written by an enforcement officer at any single incident. Added 1977, No. 177 (Adj. Sess.), § 11, eff. May 1, 1978.

23 V.S.A. § 1413 Disposition of impounded vehicles and loads

1413. Disposition of impounded vehicles and loads (a) Rights of owner of load. The title to the load on an impounded vehicle or combination remains in the owner who may repossess the load at any time upon presentation of proof of ownership to the sheriff. If the load spoils during impoundment the loss shall be on the owner subject to any right of recovery of damages that the owner may have against the owner of the vehicle or combination or against any other party, and the costs of disposition of the load shall be recoverable in addition to the costs of prosecution. (b) Sale of unclaimed vehicle or load. In case any impounded vehicle or combination is unredeemed, or the load is unclaimed, for a period of 60 days after notice of impoundment is given, it shall be sold at a public sale by the sheriff upon order of the issuing authority and after 10 days notice of sale to the owners, lienholders, or secured parties of the vehicle or load except that if the sheriff determines it to be necessary to preserve their value, goods that may spoil may be sold in any commercially reasonable manner prior to expiration of the 60-day period and, if impractical to do so, without giving notice to the owners, lienholders, or secured parties. (c) Disposition of proceeds of sale. The proceeds of sale shall first be applied to the payment of the fine and costs, and secondly, to the payment of the encumbrances. The balance shall be remitted to the owner. Added 1983, No. 86, § 9.

23 V.S.A. § 1414 Reciprocal enforcement

1414. Reciprocal enforcement (a) It is the intent of the General Assembly that the Commissioner make a reasonable effort to reach agreement with the New England states and New York with respect to a uniform size and weight of motor vehicles to be allowed to operate on the public highways of those jurisdictions and Vermont. The agreement should, to the extent possible, find a balance between the free flow of commerce and the safety of the users on the highways. (b) The Commissioner may enter into agreements with other states, the District of Columbia, and Canadian provinces providing for the reciprocal enforcement of the overweight or over dimension vehicle permit laws of those jurisdictions entering into the agreement. The agreement is allowed to conflict with sections 1400 through 1408 of this title provided that the overall effect of the interstate agreement maintains standards that are generally comparable to those presently in effect in Vermont, in which case the terms of the agreement shall govern as to vehicles issued permits pursuant to the agreement. Added 1987, No. 95, § 1, eff. June 23, 1987; amended 1997, No. 46, § 4.

23 V.S.A. § 1415 Transfer of weight permits

1415. Transfer of weight permits (a) Weight permits issued pursuant to this subchapter may be transferred from one vehicle to another vehicle. If the permit fee of the motor vehicle for which a permit is sought is less than the permit fee for the transferred motor vehicle, the Commissioner shall certify to the Commissioner of Finance and Management the facts pertinent to the difference of the permit fees, giving the name of the owner of the motor vehicle, his or her address, the amount of the original permit fee paid, the date of application for transfer, and the correct fee for the motor vehicle for which the permit is sought. The Commissioner of Finance and Management shall issue his or her warrant in favor of the owner for the percent of the difference in permit fees as the unexpired term bears to the entire permit period. If the permit fee for the motor vehicle for which a permit is sought is greater than the permit issued to the transferred vehicle, the permit applicant shall pay the difference based on the prorated term remaining on the permit. If a transfer of the permit is made before the 15th day of any month, the transfer shall be considered as having been made on the first day of the month. If the transfer of a permit is made on or after the 15th day of any month, the transfer shall be considered as having been made on the first day of the month following the application for transfer. (b) Transfers issued pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall only be permitted if the applicant or an authorized representative appears at the Department of Motor Vehicles’ office in Montpelier. Such transfers shall be permitted by mail, if the transfer is between vehicles registered at the same weight. Added 1987, No. 187 (Adj. Sess.), § 3.

23 V.S.A. § 1431 Height and width limits

1431. Height and width limits (a) Except for the provisions of subsection (c) of this section, motor vehicles and loads shall not exceed eight and one-half feet in width or 13 feet six inches in height. The term width shall mean the total width of the vehicle and load, excluding safety devices as determined by the Commissioner that may extend up to three inches on each side of the vehicle. The height and width limits of this section shall not apply to snow plows, road machines, oilers, traction engines, tractors, rollers, power shovels, dump wagons, trucks, highway building equipment, and road-making appliances employed on highway maintenance or on highway construction when operated within a construction area, or to vehicles employed by municipalities for transportation and disposal of nontoxic residual waste sludge from wastewater and water treatment facilities while used for those purposes, nor shall the limits apply to traction engines, tractor, trailer, or motor trucks operated on a public highway under a permit from the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles as provided in section 1400 of this title. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the use of the stop arm described in section 1281a of this title, and no permit shall be required. (b) In his or her discretion, with or without hearing, the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, or his or her agent, upon application, may issue annually to dealers in farm tractors or other farm implements overwidth permits to transport or draw upon a highway such farm implements as are more than eight and one-half feet in width but not more than 13 feet in width, when such operation is necessary to the conduct of such business, during the period from sunrise to sunset, provided at least two red flags not smaller than 12 inches square be displayed on the left front and rear of each vehicle or implement or combination thereof in such manner as to be clearly visible from the front and rear for a distance of at least 500 feet, except that no vehicles, implements, or combinations thereof shall be operated on any highway after 10:00 a.m. on any Sunday or legal holiday, except on trips not in excess of two miles, nor upon any highway at any time on which operation is prohibited by order of the Commissioner. (c) The total outside width of a motor home, as defined in 32 V.S.A. § 8902(11), or a trailer coach as defined in subdivision 4(41) of this title, may exceed eight and one-half feet if the excess width is attributable to an appurtenance that extends no more than six inches beyond the body of the vehicle. The term “appurtenance” does not include any item that is temporarily affixed to the exterior of the vehicle by the vehicle’s owner for the purpose of transporting the item from one location to another, but does include the following: (1) an awning and its support hardware; and (2) any appendage that is intended to be an integral part of a motor home or trailer coach that is installed by a manufacturer or dealer. (d)(1) A person, firm, or corporation whose land is divided by a public highway may operate across the highway, at approximate right angles to the centerline, an unregistered vehicle with or without a load having a width in excess of eight and one-half feet or a height in excess of 13 feet six inches and that, if used on highway construction, would be defined as motorized highway building equipment, provided that the person, firm, or corporation shall first: (A) have applied to and received from the selectboard of the town or the aldermen or city council of the city in which the land and highway are located a permit in writing specifying the vehicle covered and the point where, time when, and under what conditions the crossing may be made; (B) have applied to and received from the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles a certificate in writing that the vehicle listed in the permit issued by the selectboard or aldermen or city council meets the conditions the Commissioner may impose as to type and size and, further, that the operation of it across the highway will not damage the highway. (2) The Commissioner may impose conditions regarding size of load or highway surface protection as he or she deems necessary. (3) A fee of $35.00 shall be paid to the town or city for each permit and the permit shall not cover more than one vehicle. The permit shall be valid for a period of one year from the date of issue. A similar fee of $35.00 shall be paid to the State for each certificate issued by the Commissioner and the certificate shall not cover more than one vehicle and shall be valid for a period of one year from the date of issue. (4) Provided that the terms and conditions are complied with, no registration of the vehicle shall be required under any other section of this title, nor shall permits of any kind or type be required under any other section of this title. Amended 1961, No. 286, § 5, eff. Aug. 1, 1961; 1963, No. 62, § 2, eff. April 30, 1963; 1969, No. 49, § 2; 1969, No. 212 (Adj. Sess.), § 8, eff. March 25, 1970; 1971, No. 55, § 1; 1975, No. 213 (Adj. Sess.), § 3, eff. April 1, 1976; 1983, No. 74, § 4, eff. April 28, 1983; 1987, No. 95, § 4, eff. June 23, 1987; 2001, No. 18, § 2, eff. May 8, 2001; 2015, No. 47, § 33; 2017, No. 132 (Adj. Sess.), § 15.

23 V.S.A. § 1432 Length of vehicles

1432. Length of vehicles (a) Operation of vehicles with or without a trailer or semitrailer. No motor vehicle without a trailer or semitrailer attached, which is longer than 46 feet overall, shall be operated upon any highway except under special permission from the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. A motor vehicle with a trailer or semitrailer shall be operated, with regard to the length of the vehicle, pursuant to this section. If there is a trailer or semitrailer, the distance between the kingpin of the semitrailer to the center of the rearmost axle group shall not exceed 41 feet. An “axle group” is defined as two or more axles where the centers of all the axles are spaced at an equal distance apart. (1) Vehicles with a trailer or semitrailer not exceeding 75 feet. If the overall length of a vehicle with a trailer or semitrailer does not exceed 75 feet, it may be operated without a permit. (2) Use of vehicles with a trailer or semitrailer longer than 75 feet by a Vermont shipper or receiver of goods. A receiver or shipper of goods located in Vermont may request from the Agency of Transportation access to a State highway for a commercial motor vehicle where the overall length exceeds 75 feet. If the total vehicle length is in excess of 75 feet or the distance from the steering axle to the rearmost tractor axle is longer than 25 feet, a permit may be requested from the Commissioner. In that event, the Agency of Transportation shall review the route or routes requested, making its determination for approval based on safety and engineering considerations, after considering input from local government and regional planning commissions or the metropolitan planning organization. The Agency shall maintain consistency in its application of acceptable highway geometry when approving other routes. The Agency may authorize safety precautions on these highways, if warranted, that shall include precautionary signage, intelligent transportation system signage, special speed limits, and use of flashing lights. (3) Vehicles with a trailer or semitrailer longer than 75 feet. If the overall length of a vehicle with a trailer or semitrailer is longer than 75 feet, a permit may be issued pursuant to subdivision 1402(b)(1) of this title. (b) Rear-end protective devices on trailers. A trailer or semitrailer not in excess of 53 feet may be operated, provided the semitrailer is equipped with a rear-end protective device of substantial construction consisting of a continuous lateral beam extending to within four inches of the lateral extremities of the semitrailer and located not more than 22 inches from the surface as measured with the vehicle empty and on a level surface. (c) [Repealed.] (d) Operation of pole semitrailers. The provisions of this section shall not be construed to prevent the operation of so-called pole dinkeys or pole semitrailers when being used to support the ends of poles, timbers, pipes, or structural members capable, generally, of sustaining themselves as beams between the supporting connections, the overall length of which may exceed 75 feet under special permission from the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. (e) Operation on interstate highways. Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section, on the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways and those classes of qualifying Federal-aid Primary System highways as designated by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, and on highways leading to or from the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways for a distance of one mile, unless the Agency of Transportation finds the use of a specific highway to be unsafe, no overall length limits for tractor-semitrailer or tractor semitrailer-trailer combination shall apply. On these highways, no semitrailer in a tractor-semitrailer combination longer than 53 feet and no trailer or semitrailer in a tractor-semitrailer-trailer combination longer than 28 feet shall be operated. However, the limits established by this section shall not be construed in such a manner as to prohibit the use of semitrailers in a tractor-semitrailer combination of such dimensions as were in actual and lawful use in this State on December 1, 1982. (f) [Repealed.] Amended 1959, No. 99; 1963, No. 62, § 3, eff. April 30, 1963; 1971, No. 55, § 2; 1973, No. 15; 1977, No. 41, § 3, eff. April 19, 1977; 1983, No. 74, § 2, eff. April 28, 1983; 1985, No. 124 (Adj. Sess.), § 8, eff. April 18, 1986; 1987, No. 95, § 5, eff. June 23, 1987; 1987, No. 157 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. April 27, 1988; 1991, No. 65, eff. June 18, 1991; 1995, No. 183 (Adj. Sess.), § 18g, eff. May 22, 1996; 1997, No. 120 (Adj. Sess.), § 9c; 1999, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 17, eff. Aug. 1, 2000; 2007, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 43; 2009, No. 50, § 102; 2011, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 4; 2017, No. 71, § 16, eff. June 8, 2017; 2021, No. 20, § 247; 2021, No. 55, § 10, eff. July 1, 2022; 2023, No. 6, § 254, eff. July 1, 2023.

23 V.S.A. § 1433 Reasonable access

1433. Reasonable access Reasonable access, within the meaning of 19 V.S.A. § 1111, shall be permitted to those vehicles operating pursuant to the provisions of subsections 1302(c) and 1432(e) of this title between the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways and any other qualifying Federal-aid Primary System highways, as designated by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Vermont Secretary of Transportation, and terminals; facilities for food, fuel, repairs, and rest; and points of loading and unloading for household goods carriers. The Vermont Secretary of Transportation shall by rule pursuant to 3 V.S.A. chapter 25 either designate those portions of the public highways over which such reasonable access shall be permitted or provide for the issuance of permits to allow reasonable access. However, permits shall not be required for tractor-semi-trailer combinations designed for the transportation of automobiles and having provision for transporting motor vehicles on part of the power unit provided the combinations comply with the provisions of subsection 1432(a) of this title. Added 1983, No. 74, § 3, eff. April 28, 1983; amended 1987, No. 95, § 6, eff. June 23, 1987; 2015, No. 47, § 35; 2019, No. 149 (Adj. Sess.), § 15; 2021, No. 20, § 248.

23 V.S.A. § 1434 Operation in excess of weight, height, or width limits; penalties

1434. Operation in excess of weight, height, or width limits; penalties (a) General limits. The operation of a vehicle on a public highway in excess of the legal height, width, or length limits as prescribed in section 1431 or 1432 of this subchapter without first obtaining a permit to operate the vehicle, whether or not a permit is available, shall be a traffic violation, as defined in section 2302 of this title, and punishable by a civil penalty of $300.00 for a first offense, $600.00 for a second offense within a two-year period, and $800.00 for a third or subsequent offense within a two-year period. (b) Permit limits. The operation of a vehicle on a public highway in excess of the legal height, width, or length limits as prescribed in section 1431 or 1432 of this subchapter in violation of the terms of a permit issued in conformance with section 1400 of this subchapter shall be a traffic violation, as defined in section 2302 of this title, and punishable by a civil penalty of $300.00 for a first offense, $600.00 for a second offense within a two-year period, and $800.00 for a third or subsequent offense within a two- year period. (c) Covered bridges. The operation of a vehicle in excess of the legal limits designated for a covered bridge under section 1397a of this subchapter or applicable under subdivisions 1392(1) and (2) of this subchapter shall be a traffic violation, as defined in section 2302 of this title, and punishable by a civil penalty of $1,000.00 or, if the violation results in substantially impeding the flow of traffic, $2,000.00. For a second or subsequent conviction within a three-year period, the applicable penalty shall be doubled. (d) Refusal to issue a permit. In the case of a violation under subsection (a) of this section, the Commissioner may refuse to issue a permit to the violator under section 1400 of this subchapter for a period not to exceed three months if the owner or lessee commits four or more violations within a two-year period. If the holder of a permit commits four or more violations under subsection (b) of this section within a two-year period, the Commissioner may suspend, for a period not to exceed three months, any permit issued to the violator under section 1400 of this subchapter. For the purposes of this section, the owner or lessee of the vehicle shall be considered the holder of, or applicant for, the permit. Added 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 11, eff. April 25, 1996; amended 1997, No. 46, § 5; 1997, No. 120 (Adj. Sess.), § 9e; 2015, No. 47, § 34; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 205; 2021, No. 184 (Adj. Sess.), § 49, eff. July 1, 2022.

23 V.S.A. § 1435 Enforcement plan

1435. Enforcement plan It is the intention of the General Assembly that the Departments of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety, in conjunction with other law enforcement entities throughout the State, produce a coordinated statewide truck enforcement, safety, and training plan. The plan shall provide for a common philosophy and approach to commercial vehicle enforcement while recognizing the different focus and responsibilities of each entity. The plan shall also provide for training of commercial vehicle enforcement officers as well as a process to ensure effective communication of information between enforcement personnel, the over dimension permitting unit, and members of the trucking industry. In addition, the plan shall provide for periodic informational meetings with municipalities, groups of municipalities, regional entities, and the general public. Added 1997, No. 46, § 6; amended 1997, No. 120 (Adj. Sess.), § 9g.

23 V.S.A. § 1436 Statewide Municipal Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement Fund

1436. Statewide Municipal Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement Fund A Statewide Municipal Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement Fund is created for the purpose of supporting commercial motor vehicle law enforcement initiatives in the State. The Fund shall be administered by the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. Municipalities may apply to the Commissioner on forms supplied by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Funds distributed to municipalities, which shall not exceed $12,000.00 annually per municipality under this section, shall be used for training of municipal law enforcement officers for commercial motor vehicle enforcement, temporary replacement officers for those municipal law enforcement officers receiving commercial motor vehicle enforcement training, and other municipal commercial motor vehicle enforcement uses as determined by the Commissioner. The Commissioner shall ensure that the activities of the commercial motor vehicle law enforcement initiative are consistent with those of the enforcement plan produced pursuant to section 1435 of this title. Added 1997, No. 120 (Adj. Sess.), § 9h; amended 1999, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 18; 2003, No. 160 (Adj. Sess.), § 52, eff. June 9, 2004.

23 V.S.A. § 1437 Exception for towaway trailer transporter combination

1437. Exception for towaway trailer transporter combination (a) As used in this section: (1) “Towaway trailer transporter combination” means 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 in which the trailers or semitrailers carry no property and constitute inventory property of a manufacturer, distributor, or dealer of such trailers or semitrailers. (2) “Trailer transporter towing unit” means a power unit that is not used to carry property when operating in a towaway trailer transporter combination. (b) Notwithstanding sections 1391-1398 of this title, a towaway trailer transporter combination may be operated on the Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways, those classes of qualifying Federal-aid Primary System highways as designated by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, and on highways leading to or from the Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways for a distance of one mile or less without a permit if the overall length does not exceed 82 feet unless the Vermont Secretary of Transportation finds the use of a specific highway to be unsafe. Added 2019, No. 149 (Adj. Sess.), § 15a.

23 V.S.A. § 1451 Loads on passenger cars

1451. Loads on passenger cars No person shall operate a passenger type motor vehicle upon any highway with any load carried thereon extending beyond the line of the fenders on the left side of such vehicle nor extending more than six inches beyond the line of the fenders on the right side thereof, nor when any baggage or other object is carried in a way to obscure either number plate or any light on such vehicle.

23 V.S.A. § 1452 Securing loads of wood or wood products

1452. Securing loads of wood or wood products (a) As used in this section: (1) “Load” means the total of wood or wood products being carried. (2) “Tier” means the total vertical height of all wood or wood products arranged individually or in layers, or in bundles placed one above the other. (3) “Binding” means chain, wire rope, steel cable, steel strapping, or nylon webbing together with tightening device. (b) A person may not operate a motor truck, truck tractor, trailer, or semi-trailer on a public highway carrying wood or wood products unless the load is securely fastened to the vehicle and each load or tier up to a length of five feet inclusive shall be fastened with one binding; if the length exceeds five feet but does not exceed 10 feet, it shall be fastened with two bindings; if the length exceeds 10 feet, it shall be fastened with three bindings. (c) The ends of any bindings, whether the vehicle is loaded or unloaded, shall be so secured that loose ends do not endanger pedestrians, motorists, or other vehicles using the highway. (d) Any bindings used for securing loads of wood or wood products as required under this section shall have a capacity of at least 2,750 pounds working load limit as rated by the manufacturer. (e) This section shall not be construed to include a truck transporting lumber, wood, or sawmill wastes, when transported in a box-type body with solid sides, provided that such truck is not loaded higher than its side-boards. Amended 1967, No. 326 (Adj. Sess.); 1971, No. 118, eff. April 26, 1971; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 206; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 297, eff. July 1, 2024.

23 V.S.A. § 1453 Baled products

1453. Baled products (a)(1) An individual shall not operate a motor vehicle loaded with baled hay or straw or other baled products with any portion of the load extending beyond the front end of the vehicle bed; with the exception that a load extension is permitted beyond the front end of a truck bed, over the driver’s compartment or sleeping berth, provided this portion of the load is supported by permanent and substantial steel frame construction. Loads of baled hay, straw, or other baled products shall be solidly packed while in transit. (2) Such loads, unless supported by substantially constructed sideboards or rack type bodies, shall be fastened securely to the vehicle by not less than two longitudinal binders and by a cross binder for each tier of baled hay or straw or other baled products, such binders to be of sufficient strength to hold such load in place. Such loads may be transported without sideboards and the binders specified in this subdivision if fastened by any commercial binding device equal or superior to the provisions set forth in this section. Such commercial binding device shall be approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles. (b) The provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to a farmer engaged in farming operations where such transportation requires that he or she use the public highways; provided, however, that the farmer loads and transports the loads in a reasonably safe manner. (c) Any enforcement officer may stop and inspect vehicles in respect to compliance with the provisions of this section, and if it is found that the load is being transported in violation of this section, the enforcement officer may arrest without warrant and shall prohibit the operator of such vehicle from continuing en route until the load has been made to comply with this section. Amended 1971, No. 228 (Adj. Sess.), § 32; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 207.

23 V.S.A. § 1454 Securing loads

1454. Securing loads (a) A person shall not operate a motor vehicle nor draw a trailer or semi-trailer on a highway unless the motor vehicle, trailer, or semi-trailer is so constructed and loaded that it will create no hazard to other users of the highway. (b) The Commissioner may, by rule, impose design and load security requirements, consistent with nationally recognized safety standards, upon motor vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers in order to provide for the safe and secure transport of any loads. 1961, No. 62, §§ 1, 2; amended 1971, No. 228 (Adj. Sess.), § 32; 1997, No. 46, § 7.

23 V.S.A. § 1455 Carrying of permits in the permitted motor vehicle

1455. Carrying of permits in the permitted motor vehicle All permits issued pursuant to this subchapter shall be carried in the motor vehicle in either paper or electronic form. Use of a portable electronic device to display an electronic permit does not in itself constitute consent for an enforcement officer to access other contents of the device. The civil penalty for violation of this section shall be $150.00. A violation of this section shall be considered an offense separate from any other related violations. Added 2023, No. 41, § 24, eff. June 1, 2023.

Source: Vermont General Assembly (legislature.vermont.gov)URL: https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/chapter/23/013Fetched: 10/21/2026