Oversize Load Information and Permits
The City of Tacoma’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit helps enforce State of Washington regulations for moving oversized and overweight loads within city limits.
As vehicle operators, you must obtain the necessary permits for the movement of any vehicle, vehicle combination, equipment, or machinery that exceeds the dimensional or weight limits outlined in Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 46.44.
What is an Oversized Load?
An oversized or overweight load exceeds any of the following criteria:
- Maximum width of 8 feet 6 inches
- Maximum height of 14 feet
- Maximum length for a single vehicle of 40 feet
- Maximum length for a single trailer and load of 53 feet
- Maximum length for a truck and trailer of 75 feet
- Legal weight limits can be found on Washington State’s Weight Table
What Kind of Permit Do I Need?
You must obtain a City of Tacoma permit for point-to-point movements within city limits. A Washington State oversize permit is accepted when a load’s movement originates or terminates outside city limits. During commute hours, you may not operate over-dimensional loads on city streets. Commute hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Permit Types
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An Over Dimensional permit will only be issued to transport non-reducible loads that cannot reasonably be reduced or dismantled. A non-reducible load includes but is not limited to large machinery, construction materials, and prefabricated structures.
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A superload is a vehicle or load over 200,000 pounds in gross weight, over 16 feet in height, 16 feet wide, or 125 feet in trailer load length. Superloads require prior approval at least five business days before the requested move date. The Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit can provide approval by calling (253) 591-5289 or by email. Please include the move date, load dimensions, and planned route.
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Special regulations govern the movement of buildings, as found in Tacoma Municipal Code (TMC) 9.10. House and building moves require prior approval at least five business days before the requested move date. The Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit can provide approval by calling (253) 591-5289 or by email. Please include the move date, load dimensions, and planned route.
How Do I Get a Permit?
Please visit the City’s Planning and Development Services Permit website to apply for a permit. If you have any questions about permits or permit types, please contact the City of Tacoma’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit by calling (253) 591-5289 or by email. They can help guide you through the process and help you understand the requirements for your specific situation.
Permit Regulations and Conditions
Permits are only valid for the vehicle they are issued to. You must always carry all original and signed permits in the power unit during your move. Your oversized or overweight load may be subject to pilot and escort vehicle requirements that you can find in Washington Administration Code (WAC) 468.38.100.
Important Information About Oversized Vehicles
Due to ongoing construction in the city, including the Port of Tacoma, any oversized load requiring escort vehicles must contact the Road Use Compliance or the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit at least seven (7) days before the move date. Adhering to this requirement is crucial, as failure to do so may result in refused entry. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining safety and efficiency in our City’s transportation system.