R909. Transportation, Motor Carrier.

R909-2. Utah Size and Weight Rule.

R909-2-1. Purpose and Applicability.

The purpose of this rule is to protect and preserve Utah's highway infrastructure, enhance safety, and facilitate commerce. Commercial motor vehicle operators and motor carriers engaged in the movement of over-dimensional and overweight vehicles and loads must comply with this rule.

R909-2-2. Authority.

This rule is enacted under the authority of Sections 41-1a-231, 41-1a-1206, 72-1-201, 72-7-402, 72-7-404, 72-7-406, 72-7-407, 72-9-301, and 72-9-502.

R909-2-3. Definitions.

(1) "Appurtenance" has the same meaning as defined in 23 CFR Part 658, and Section 72-7-402.

(2) "Articulated vehicle" means two or more vehicles that are connected by a joint that can pivot.

(3) "Automobile transporter" means any vehicle combination designed and used for the transport of assembled highway vehicles, including truck camper units. An automobile transporter will not be prohibited from transporting cargo or general freight on a backhaul, so long as it complies with weight limitations for a truck tractor and semitrailer combination.

(4) "Bridge formula" means the formula described in 23 U.S.C. 127(a)(2), incorporated by reference, and Section 72-7-404, which is a bridge protection formula used by federal and state governments to regulate the amount of weight that can be put on each of a vehicle's axles, or the number of axles, and the distance between the axles or group of axles must be to legally carry a given weight.

(5) "Cargo or cargo carrying length" means the total length of a combination of trailers or loads measured from the foremost of the first trailer or load to the rearmost of the last trailer or load, including coupling devices.

(6) "CSA" means the Compliance, Safety, Accountability program administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, where they work together with state partners and industry to further reduce commercial motor vehicle crashes, fatalities, and injuries on our nation's highways.

(7) "Commercial vehicle" has the same meaning as defined in Section 72-9-102.

(8) "Daylight" means one-half hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset.

(9) "Department" means the Utah Department of Transportation.

(10) "Divisible load" means a load that can reasonably be dismantled or disassembled and does not meet the definition of non-divisible as defined in this section.

(11) "Division" means the Motor Carrier Division.

(12) "Drawbar" means the connection between two vehicles, one of which is towing or drawing the other on a highway.

(13) "Dromedary unit" means a box, deck, or plate mounted behind the cab and forward of the fifth wheel on the frame of the power unit of a truck tractor-semitrailer combination.

(14) "Emergency vehicle" means a vehicle designed to be used under emergency conditions: to transport personnel and equipment; and to support the suppression of fires and mitigation of other hazardous situations.

(15) "Fixed axle" means an axle that is not steerable, self-steering, or retractable.

(16) "Flagger" means a person who is trained to direct traffic using signs or flags to aid the over-dimensional load or vehicles in the safe movement along the highway as designated on the over-dimensional load permit.

(17) "Freeway" means a divided highway facility with full control of access and two or more lanes for the exclusive use of through traffic in each direction. A freeway includes a highway that is part of the interstate system and SR-201 from I-80 to 7200 West.

(18) "Full trailer" means a vehicle without motive power designed for carrying property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that no part of its weight rests upon the towing vehicle.

(19) "High-risk motor carrier" means a motor carrier that is:

(a) above the threshold in the Crash or Fatigue or Unsafe BASIC that is greater than or equal to 85%, plus one other BASIC at or above the "all other" motor carrier threshold; or

(b) a motor carrier with any four or more BASICs at or above the "all other" motor carrier threshold.

(20) "Highway" means any public road, street, alley, lane, court, place, viaduct, tunnel, culvert, bridge, or structure laid out or erected for public use, or dedicated or abandoned to the public, or made public in an action for the partition of real property, including the entire area within the right-of-way.

(21) "Implement of husbandry" means every vehicle designed or adapted or used exclusively for an agricultural operation and only incidentally operated or moved upon the highways.

(22) "Incidental" means transportation that occurs occasionally or by chance but does not exceed a distance of 20 miles.

(23) "Interstate system" means any highway designated as interstate.

(24) "Laden" means carrying a load on a vehicle or combination of vehicles.

(25) "Longer combination vehicle" or "LCV" means a combination of trucks, truck tractors, semitrailers, and, trailers that exceed legal dimensions and operate on highways by permit for transporting divisible loads.

(26) "Longer combination vehicle authority" means authorization given to a specific company to exceed standard permitted length allowances for vehicle configuration on pre-approved routes.

(27) "Manufactured home" means a transportable factory-built housing unit constructed on or after June 15, 1976, in one or more sections, and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation if connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems.

(28) "Manufactured mobile home" means a transportable factory-built housing unit built before June 15, 1976, in accordance with a state mobile home code that existed before the Federal Manufactured Housing and Safety Standards Act.

(29) "Motor carrier" has the same meaning as the phrase defined in Section 72-9-102.

(30) "MVR" means motor vehicle record.

(31) "MUTCD" means Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

(32) "Multi-trip" means two or more daily trips or a minimum of ten weekly trips in the proximity of a port of entry.

(33) "Natural gas vehicle" means the vehicle's engine is fueled primarily by natural gas.

(34) "Non-divisible" means any load or vehicle exceeding applicable length, width, height, or weight limits which, if separated into smaller loads or vehicles, would:

(a) compromise the intended use of the load or vehicle, making it unable to perform the function for which it was intended;

(b) destroy the value of the load or vehicle; or

(c) requires more than eight work hours to dismantle using appropriate equipment. The applicant for a non-divisible load permit has the burden of proof as to the number of work hours required to dismantle the load.

(35) "Non-divisible bridge table formula" means the formula 1.47 x 500 (LN / (N-1) + 12N + 36), where variables L and N have the same meaning as described in 23 U.S.C. 127(a)(2) and Section 72-7-404.

(36) "Out-of-service" means a condition where a motor vehicle, because of mechanical condition or loading, is considered imminently hazardous and likely to cause an accident or breakdown; or where a driver's violation renders a commercial vehicle operator unqualified to drive.

(37) "Pole trailer" means every vehicle without motive power designed to be drawn by another vehicle and attached to the towing vehicle by a reach, or pole, or by being boomed or otherwise secured to the towing vehicle and is ordinarily used for transporting long or irregular shaped loads such as poles, pipes, or structural members generally capable of sustaining themselves as beams between the supporting connections.

(38) "Port of entry bypass permit" means a permit that allows a motor carrier to bypass a designated port of entry.

(39) "Quad axle group" means a group of four consecutive fixed axles.

(40) "Recreational vehicle" means a vehicle or vehicles that are driven solely as a family or personal conveyance for non-commercial purposes.

(41) "Retractable axle" means an axle that can be mechanically raised and lowered by the driver of the vehicle, but which may not have its weight-bearing capacity mechanically regulated.

(42) "Saddle mount" means a truck or tractor towing other vehicles with the front axle of each towed vehicle mounted on top of the frame of the preceding vehicle or vehicles.

(43) "Secondary highway" means routes not designated as interstate or freeways. Two-lane, two-way highways are synonymous with secondary highways.

(44) "Semitrailer" means every vehicle without motive power designed for carrying property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that some part of its weight and its load rests on or is carried by another vehicle.

(45) "Special event" means the movement of an over-dimensional load or vehicle.

(46) "Special mobile equipment" or "SME" means the same as that term is defined in Section 41-1a-102.

(47) "Special truck equipment" or "STE" means a vehicle by nature of design that cannot meet the non-divisible weight allowances, such as concrete pump trucks, well boring trucks, or cranes with a lift capacity of five or more tons.

(48) "Spread axle" means two single axles that exceed 96 inches apart.

(49) "Stinger-steered" means a truck tractor semitrailer wherein the fifth wheel is located on a drop frame located behind and below the rearmost axle of the power unit.

(50) "Tandem axle" means two axles spaced not less than 40 inches nor more than 96 inches apart and having at least one common point of weight suspension.

(51) "Tillerman or Steerman" means an individual who steers any axle of an articulated trailer.

(52) "Towaway trailer transporter combination" means a combination of vehicles consisting of a trailer transporter towing unit and two trailers or semitrailers as inventory that does not exceed a total weight of 26,000 pounds.

(53) "Trailer transporter towing unit" means a power unit that is not used to carry property if operating in a towaway trailer transporter combination.

(54) "Tridem axle" means any three consecutive axles whose extreme centers are not more than 144 inches apart, and are individually attached to or articulated from, or both, a common attachment to the vehicle, including a connecting mechanism designed to equalize the load between axles.

(55) "Triple trailer" means a tractor and three trailers of approximately equal length.

(56) "Truck" means any self-propelled motor vehicle, except a truck tractor, designed or used for the transportation of property, laden or un-laden.

(57) "Truck tractor" means a motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles and not constructed to carry a load other than a part of the weight of the vehicle and load that is drawn.

(58) "Trunnion axle" means an axle configuration with two individual axles mounted in a transverse plane, with four tires on each axle.

(59) "Trunnion axle group" means two or more consecutive trunnion axles that are attached to the vehicle by a weight-equalizing suspension system and whose consecutive centers are more than 40 inches, but not more than 96 inches apart.

(60) "UCR" means Unified Carrier Registration.

(61) "Unladen" means a vehicle is not carrying a load.

(62) "Variable load suspension axle" or "VLS axle" means an axle that can be adjusted mechanically to various weight-bearing capacities and can also be mechanically raised and lowered.

(63) "Vehicle" means every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except devices used exclusively upon rails or tracks.

R909-2-4. Legal Size Vehicle Dimensions.

(1) Maximum legal vehicle dimensions, laden and un-laden, that may be operated without special permits on Utah highways:

(a) height: 14 feet;

(b) width: eight feet six inches; and

TABLE 1

Legal Size Vehicle Dimensions

Vehicle

Maximum Length

Comments

Truck tractor

45'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Straight truck

45'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Semitrailer

53'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Full trailer

53'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Truck, tractor, and double trailer

61'

Measured from the front of the first trailer to the rear of the second trailer. Tractor is not included in the measurement.

Truck, tractor, and triple trailer

61'

Measured from the front of the first trailer to the rear of the third trailer. Tractor is not included in the measurement.

Truck and single trailer

65'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Truck and two trailers

65'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Non-commercial RV

65'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Stringer steered

80'

Measured from bumper to bumper.

Dromedary plus trailer

65' *

Measured from bumper to bumper. A dromedary unit is considered a truck trailer configuration whether laden or unladen.

Saddle mount

97'

Measured from furthest extremities to the front and rear. Maximum of one power unit, three saddle mount vehicles, and one full mount.

Drawbar

15' **

Measured from box to box or frame to frame.

Front overhang

3' ***

Measured from the front of the power unit.

Rear overhang

Measured from the rear of the bed or body of the vehicle.

* The maximum length is 75' when a dromedary plus trailer is hauling Class 1 munitions on interstates, US highways, and reasonable access routes.

** The 15' maximum length does not apply in the case of a connection between two vehicles transporting poles, pipe, machinery, or structural material that cannot be dismembered when transported upon a pole trailer.

*** The maximum length is 4' when a stinger steer is in use.

R909-2-5. Legal Weight Limitations.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, operating a vehicle that exceeds the maximum gross and axle weight limitations described in Table 2 is prohibited.

TABLE 2

Maximum Gross and Axle Weight Limitations

Axles

Weight

Single Wheel

10,500 pounds

Single Axle

20,000 pounds

Tandem Axle

34,000 pounds

Tridem Axle

Must comply with the bridge formula

Gross Vehicle Weight

80,000 pounds

(2) An overweight permit must be obtained to authorize any exception to the maximum weight limitations described in Table 2.

(3) The weight limitation described in Table 2 does not apply to a covered heavy-duty tow and recovery vehicle.

(4) Emergency vehicles may exceed the weight limits described in Table 2 with the following limitations:

(a) 24,000 pounds on a single steering axle;

(b) 33,500 pounds on a single-drive axle;

(d) 52,000 pounds on a tandem rear drive steer axle; and

(e) 86,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.

(5) A vehicle fueled primarily by natural gas or powered primarily by electric battery power may exceed any vehicle weight limit, up to a maximum gross vehicle weight of 82,000 pounds, by any amount that is equal to the difference between:

(a)(i) the weight of the vehicle attributable to the natural gas tank and fueling system carried by that vehicle; or

(ii) the weight of the vehicle attributable to the electric battery power system; and

(b) the weight of a comparable diesel tank and fueling system.

R909-2-6. Tire Load Provisions.

(1) The load of a tire may not exceed the load rating as indicated by the manufacturer on the sidewall of the tire.

(2) When determining the maximum tire load for an axle or axle group, the division shall base the calculation on the load rating of the lowest-rated tire in the relevant axle or axle group.

(3) The division shall separately calculate the maximum tire load for each VLS axle.

R909-2-7. Axle Provisions.

(1) No more than three fixed axles may be allowed in any truck and trailer combination.

(2) Vehicles with variable load axles are limited as follows:

(a) retractable or variable load suspension axles installed after January 1990 must be self-steering provided however, variable load suspension axles that are within 60 inches of a drive axle or are within 60 inches of a trailer axle, need not be self-steering;

(b) no axle in a group with a retractable or VLS axle may exceed legal or bridge formula weight requirements, or the manufacturer's tire rating; and

(c) controls for raising or lowering retractable or VLS axles may be located in the cab of the power unit. The pressure regulator valve must be positioned outside of the cab and be inaccessible from the driver's compartment.

(3)(a) A motor carrier carrying a non-divisible load may apply for an approved permit that provides an exemption from the this section.

(b) When operating a vehicle or combination of vehicles equipped with VLS axles with a permit described under Subsection (3)(a), a motor carrier shall engage the VLS axles.

R909-2-8. General Oversize or Overweight Provisions.

(1) Except when entering on Northbound I-15 at the St. George Port of Entry, Westbound I-80 at the Echo Port of Entry, and Eastbound I-80 at the Wendover Port of Entry, the appropriate permit must be obtained before operating within Utah.

(2) Each oversized or overweight permit must be carried in the vehicle or combination vehicles and may be in paper or electronic format.

(3) The conditions that must be met to obtain an oversized or overweight permit are:

(a) the motor carrier complies with the financial responsibility obligations;

(b) the vehicle or vehicles must be properly registered;

(d) the motor carrier complies with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations;

(e) the motor carrier complies with the Hazardous Material Regulations; and

(f) the motor carrier complies with the Unified Carrier Registration, or UCR, as required.

(4) Length limitations do not apply to vehicles or combinations of vehicles operated at night by a public utility if required for emergency repair of public service facilities or properties.

(5) The applicant or permittee, as a condition for obtaining an oversized permit, must assume responsibility for crashes, including injury to any person or damage to public or private property caused by their operations.

(6) The applicant or permittee must agree to indemnify and hold harmless the department from claims resulting directly or indirectly from the operation and transportation of vehicles or a combination of vehicles operating under an oversized or overweight permit.

R909-2-9. Transfer or Revision of Permits.

(1) The division may transfer permits from one vehicle to another up to two times per permit for a fee under the following conditions:

(a) annual and semi-annual permits may be transferred to another unit within a company;

(b) the customer has sold or purchased a vehicle;

(d) the vehicle has become disabled.

(2) If a permit is transferred, the division shall issue a transfer permit that has the same expiration date as the original permit.

(3) The division may only revise the start date of a single-trip permit if:

(a) the revision is made before the original start date of the permit; and

(b) the need for the revision is due to:

(i) mechanical issues with the vehicle or combination of vehicles that is on the permit; or

(ii) a weather delay.

(4) The division may not revise an expired permit.

R909-2-10. Permit Revocation, Suspension, and Confiscation.

(1) Violations of any permit that may result in the revocation, suspension, or confiscation of the permit include:

(a) speeding or driving faster than the posted speed limit or the speed indicated on the permit;

(b) lane travel;

(d) load securement;

(e) violations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations; and

(f) violations of the Hazardous Material Regulations.

(2) Before a vehicle can be moved, it must be legal, properly permitted, and the out-of-service violations corrected.

(3) Patterns of non-compliance at a motor carrier level may result in the following actions:

(a) civil penalties;

(b) suspension or revocation of permit privileges; or

R909-2-11. Weather Travel Restrictions.

(1) For divisible loads, no motor carrier may operate a longer combination vehicle LCV, a tractor-trailer combination more than 81 feet cargo carrying length, or a truck and two-trailer combination more than 92 feet measured bumper to bumper when the following conditions exist:

(a) wind more than 45 mph;

(b) any accumulation of snow and ice on the roadway; or

(2) For non-divisible loads, no motor carrier may operate an oversize vehicle or load more than 10 feet wide, 105 feet long, and 10 feet front or rear overhang when the following conditions exist:

(a) any accumulation of snow and ice on the roadway; or

(b) visibility is less than 1,000 feet.

(3) The requirements of this section supersede any other conflicting provisions of this rule.

R909-2-12. Curfew Congestion Restrictions.

(1) Unless otherwise authorized, travel is prohibited for loads or vehicles more than 12 feet wide, 105 feet overall length, and 14 feet 6 inches in height, Monday through Friday between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. and between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. mountain time on the following highways:

(a) highways south of Perry Willard Interchange, I-15, Exit #357;

(b) highways in Weber, Davis, and Salt Lake Counties;

(d) SR 68, North of milepost 16 in Utah County;

(e) I-80 East side of Salt Lake County Exit 140 to Exit 99 on the West side of Salt Lake County; and

(f) I-84 west of milepost 94.

(2) The division may authorize exceptions to the curfew congestion restrictions based on emergency situations on a case-by-case basis.

R909-2-13. Holiday Travel Restrictions.

(1) Travel is prohibited for loads more than 12 feet wide, 105 feet overall length, and 14 feet 6 inches in height during the following holidays:

(a) Christmas Day;

(b) New Year's Day;

(d) Independence Day;

(e) Labor Day; and

(f) Thanksgiving Day.

(2) Holiday restrictions begin at 2 p.m. the day before the holiday and extend to sunrise the day after the holiday.

(3) Monday holidays and Monday observed holiday restrictions begin at 2 p.m. through midnight on the Friday before the holiday. Normal travel may resume from sunrise on Saturday through Sunday at midnight. Monday holiday restriction continues at 12:01 a.m. on Monday and ends Tuesday at sunrise.

(4) The division may authorize exceptions to the holiday travel restriction based on emergency situations on a case-by-case basis.

(5) The division may prohibit the movement of oversized loads during days of anticipated high traffic volume, such as those that occur during other holidays, weather conditions, or special events.

R909-2-14. Travel Provisions and Restrictions -- Escorts -- Lighting - Exceptions.

(1)(a) As specified in Table 3 and this Subsection (1), a motor carrier shall be accompanied by a pilot or police escort.

(b) A motor carrier shall follow the most stringent requirement that applies in Table 3.

(c) The number of police escorts required is determined by the Utah Highway Patrol and is based on the area, time, difficulty of travel, and applicable state and local rules, laws, and ordinances.

(d) For an overhang greater than 20 feet, a motor carrier shall have a pilot escort vehicle positioned to the front for front overhangs and to the rear for rear overhangs.

(e) The division may require a motor carrier to have more pilot and police escorts than required by Table 3.

(f) A tow truck towing vehicles may travel outside daylight hours without a certified pilot escort if the total length is 120 feet or less and the total width is 10 feet or less.

(g) The escort requirements in this section apply only to non-divisible loads.

Table 3

Load Dimensions Requiring Pilot and Police Escorts

Daylight Hours on a Freeway

Daylight Hours on a Secondary Highway

Non-Daylight

Hours on a

Freeway

Non-Daylight Hours on a Secondary Highway

Greater than:

14' in width; or

120' in length; or

20' of overhang

1 pilot escort

Greater than:

12' in width; or

105' in length; or

20' of overhang

1 pilot

12' to 14' in width

1 pilot escort

Up to 12' in width

1 pilot escort

Greater than:

16' in width; or

16' of height

2 pilot escorts

Greater than:

14' in width; or

120' in length; or

16' of height

2 pilot escorts

Greater than:

14' in width; or

105' in length; or

14'6" of height; or

10' of overhang

Not authorized during non-daylight hours

Greater than:

12' in width; or

105' in length; or

14'6" of height; or

10' of overhang

Not authorized during non-daylight hours

Greater than:

20' in width; or

175' in length; or 17'6" of height

2 pilot escorts and at least 2 police escorts

Greater than:

17' in width; or

175' in length; or 17'6" of height

2 pilot escorts and at least 2 police escorts

Greater than:

14' in width; or

105' in length; or

14'6" of height; or

10' of overhang

Not authorized during non-daylight hours

Greater than:

12' in width; or

105' in length; or

14'6" of height; or

10' of overhang

Not authorized during non-daylight hours

(2) During non-daylight hours, motor carriers are required to have additional lighting as follows:

(a) any load must have marker lights indicating extreme width using amber lights on the front and side and red lights to the rear;

(b) loads exceeding 92' in overall length shall have lighting every 25 feet;

(c) front or rear overhang exceeding 20 feet from the front or rear bumper of a vehicle, or from the center of the closest axle in the absence of a bumper, must have a rotating or flashing beacon visible from a minimum of 500 feet, and must be displayed at a minimum height of four feet above ground;

(d) tow vehicle headlights must be operated on low beam, day or night, as an additional warning to traffic;

(e) front overhang of more than three feet shall be marked with a steady, amber marker light; and

(f) rear overhang exceeding four feet shall be marked with red clearance lights.

(3)(a) If the division determines that extenuating circumstances apply, the division may authorize exceptions to this section or require additional safety measures.

(b) Any exceptions authorized by the division shall be noted on the permit.

R909-2-15. Oversized Divisible Load Provisions.

(1) In accordance with Table 4, the division may issue an oversized permit for moving a divisible load with a vehicle or combination of vehicles exceeding the legal limits under the following conditions:

(a) the height of the vehicles or load does not exceed 14 feet 6 inches;

(b) the width of the vehicles or load does not exceed eight feet six inches;

(c) in multiple trailer combinations, a lighter trailer may not be placed in front of a heavier trailer when the weight difference is greater than 4,000 pounds; and

(d) drawbars exceeding 15 feet in length must:

(i) be marked with retro-reflective tape on half of the entire length of the drawbar on both the left and right sides of the drawbar;

(ii) have an amber light that is:

(A) visible from both the right and left sides of the drawbar;

(B) located near the center of the drawbar; and

(e) The division may not prohibit a towaway trailer transporter combination of less than 82 feet from traveling on the national network as defined by 23 C.F.R. 658.

TABLE 4

Permitted Dimensions for a Divisible Load

Vehicle

Length

Truck Tractor

Not permittable

Straight Truck

Not permittable

Semitrailer

57'

Full Trailer

57'

Tractor Double Trailer

81'

Tractor Triple Trailer

81'

Truck and Trailer

88'

Truck and two trailers

92'

Non-commercial RV

88'

Stinger Steered

Not permittable

Dromedary plus trailer

Not permittable

Saddle mount

Not permittable

Draw Bar

>15'

Height

14'6"

Width

Not permittable

Front overhang

Not permittable

Rear overhang

Not permittable

R909-2-16. Oversize Non-Divisible Load Provisions.

(1) A permitted vehicle or combination of vehicles carrying a non-divisible load must comply with the following conditions:

(a) vehicles and loads must be reduced to the minimum practical dimensions;

(b) semi-annual and annual permits may be issued for dimensions up to, but not exceeding:

(i) 14 feet 6 inches in height;

(ii) 14 feet 6 inches in width; and

(iii) 105 feet in length.

(2) Exceptions may be granted by the division for annual permitted vehicles that carry loads exceeding the dimensions identified in this section.

(3) Bulldozer blades, loader buckets, or similar equipment exceeding 16 feet in width must be removed for transport and may be hauled on the same load with the machinery after removal.

(4) Loads or vehicles exceeding 17 feet in width on two-lane routes, 20 feet in width on interstates, or 17 feet 6 inches in height on public highways may be allowed under the following terms and conditions:

(a) the permittee must notify the division by submitting a permit application online of the dimensions of the oversized vehicle or load and the proposed route to be used;

(b) the division will notify the department region or district permit official affected by the proposed route, and will obtain authorization for the move;

(c) the permittee must request authorization through the online system at least two business days in advance of the movement;

(d) a permit is not valid until the permittee has assumed the cost and responsibility to obtain utility company authorizations and clearances; and

(e) the permittee will assume all costs when a certified police escort or escorts are required.

(5) Tow trucks may purchase a semi-annual or annual non-divisible oversize permit up to 10 feet wide and 165 feet in length. Loads exceeding 10 feet wide and 165 feet long shall purchase a single-trip permit.

R909-2-17. Oversize Non-Divisible Load Signing and Flag Requirements.

(1) Non-divisible oversize loads exceeding 10 feet in width, 14 feet 6 inches in height, or 105 feet in length must display an "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign to warn the motoring public that extra-large vehicles are in operation. Signs must:

(a) be 7 feet by 18 inches;

(b) have a yellow background with 10-inch-high black letters that are painted with a 1 5/8 inches wide stroke to read: "OVERSIZE LOAD";

(d) have front signs mounted on the front bumper or on top of the vehicle cab with letters presented toward the front of the vehicle;

(e) have rear signs positioned at the rearmost part of the vehicle or load as feasible, ensuring in cases that the load does not obstruct the view of the sign;

(f) if possible, have the bottom edge of the sign be positioned not more than 5 feet above the road surface;

(g) be mounted with adequate supporting anchorage, constructed, maintained, and displayed so that they are always clearly legible;

(h) be covered, removed, or placed face down when the vehicle is not engaged in an oversized movement; and

(i) oversized load signs are not required on LCVs.

(2)(a) When transporting a non-divisible load, a red or orange flag must be affixed on the extremities when:

(i) a vehicle or load exceeds ten feet in width; or

(ii) the overhang of a load exceeds three feet to the front or four feet to the rear of the bed or body of the vehicle while in operation.

(b)(i) Each flag must be completely clean and may not be torn, faded, or worn out.

(ii) Each flag must be fastened in a way that allows the flag to wave freely.

(iii) Flagging is not required on LCVs.

(3) Tow trucks that exceed 120 feet in length are required to:

(a) display one sign on the rearmost end of a towed vehicle;

(b) the sign must have a yellow background with 10-inch-high black letters that are painted with a 1 5/8 inches wide stroke to read: "IN-TOW LONG LOAD"; and

R909-2-18. Convoys.

(1) The movement of more than one permitted vehicle is allowed, provided prior authorization is obtained from the division, with the following conditions:

(a) the number of permitted vehicles in the convoy must not exceed two;

(b) vehicles or loads may not exceed 12 feet wide or 150 feet overall length;

(d) distance between convoys must be a minimum of one mile;

(e) convoys must have a certified pilot escort in the front and rear with proper signs;

(f) police escorts or department personnel may be required;

(g) convoys must meet lighting requirements; and

(h) convoys are restricted to freeway and interstate systems.

(2) The division may authorize exceptions to the convoy restrictions based on emergency situations on a case-by-case basis.

R909-2-19. Trailers More Than 53 to 57 Feet in Length.

Trailers exceeding 53 feet but not to exceed 57 feet may acquire a single-trip, semi-annual, or annual permit.

R909-2-20. Longer Combination Vehicles.

(1) Motor Carriers operating longer combination vehicles must apply and be approved to operate on a freeway in this state.

(2) The division may authorize a motor carrier to operate an LCV with cargo or cargo carrying length as provided in this section.

(3)(a) The division may only permit an LCV for dimensions provided in Table 5.

(b) An LCV may not be used to transport a non-divisible load with a width greater than 8 feet 6 inches or a height greater than 14 feet 6 inches.

(4) An LCV is subject to any other travel conditions provided in this rule that apply to a cargo or cargo carrying length of more than 81 feet.

(5) An LCV may not operate on secondary highways unless pre-approved by the division.

TABLE 5

Permitted Dimensions for LCV

Vehicle

Length

Truck Tractor

Not permittable

Straight Truck

Not permittable

Semi Trailer

Not permittable

Full Trailer

Not permittable

Tractor Double Trailer

>81-95'

Tractor Triple Trailer

>81-95'

Truck and Trailer

>88-92'

Truck and two trailers

>88-95'

Non-commercial RV

Not permittable

Stinger Steered

Not permittable

Dromedary plus trailer

Not permittable

Saddle mount

Not permittable

Draw Bar

Not permittable

Height

Not permittable

Width

Not permittable

Front overhang

Not permittable

Rear overhang

Not permittable

R909-2-21. Overweight Divisible Load Provisions.

(1) The division may issue an overweight divisible load permit to a motor carrier for moving a vehicle or combination of vehicles and loads exceeding the legal limits if the requirements of this section are met.

(2) To be eligible for the permit described in Subsection (1):

(a) the vehicle or combination of vehicles must be properly registered for 78,001 to 80,000 pounds;

(b) the width of the vehicle or combination of vehicles may not exceed 8 feet 6 inches wide or 14 feet 6 inches high; and

(c) vehicles or a combination of vehicles with axles weighing more than 11,000 pounds must have at least four tires per axle unless the axle is a steering axle, a self-steering variable load suspension or retractable axle, or a wide-base single tire that is 14 inches wide or greater as indicated by the manufacturer rating on the sidewall of the tire.

(3) The combination unit shall conform to the bridge formula and the legal axle and gross vehicle weight limits.

(4) A divisible load permit may not be used to transport a non-divisible load except when the non-divisible load meets the divisible bridge formula and divisible size limits specified on the permit.

R909-2-22. Overweight Non-Divisible Load Provisions.

(1) The division may issue an overweight non-divisible load permit to a motor carrier for moving a vehicle or combination of vehicles and loads exceeding the legal limits if the requirements of this section are met.

(2) To be eligible for the permit described in Subsection (1):

(a) the vehicles and loads must be reduced to the minimum practical dimensions;

(b) the vehicle or combination of vehicles is properly registered for 78,001 to 80,000 pounds or the total gross weight of the vehicle; and

(3) A permit for a non-divisible load may not be used to transport a divisible load.

(4) Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of less than 125,000 may be permitted on a single-trip, semi-annual trip, or annual trip basis as described in Table 6:

TABLE 6

Single-Trip, Semi-Annual, Annual Permits for non-divisible loads allowed up to:

Axles

Weight

Single axle

29,500 pounds

Tandem axle

50,000 pounds

Tridem axle

Must comply with non-divisible bridge table formula

Trunnion Axle

Must comply with non-divisible bridge table formula

Gross weight

125,000 pounds

(5)(a) Tow trucks must be properly registered to purchase annual, semi-annual, or single-trip permits if they exceed legal weight limitations.

(b) The properly registered or permitted weight of the towed vehicle is not calculated in the tow truck towed vehicle's gross combined weight.

(c) Tow trucks must be properly registered and permitted for the weight of the tow truck and any additional weight placed upon it.

(d) If the towed weight is not properly registered or permitted, the towing vehicle will be responsible for the permitting and registration requirements of the towed vehicle.

(6)(a) Vehicles transporting milk products may exceed the gross weight limit of 80,000 pounds or the maximum weight allowed by the bridge formula. This requires an appropriate non-divisible permit issued by the department.

(b) Milk products being carried using multiple trailers will be required to abide by divisible requirements and will not get the non-divisible exception.

(7) Non-divisible loads exceeding 125,000 pounds gross weight or axle weights specified in Table 5 may only purchase single-trip permits.

(8) Nine-foot-wide axles are allowed 7.5% more weight than 8-foot-wide axles.

(9) Ten-foot-wide axles are allowed 15% more weight than 8-foot-wide axles.

(10) If using an axle equipped with eight tires, rather than four, add 10% to the weight authorized for an 8-foot-wide axle group.

(11) STE operations must have an STE profile sheet if the axle weight limitations specified in Table 5 are exceeded.

(12) Non-divisible loads registered for less than 78,001 pounds may be issued a non-divisible permit allowing non-divisible axle or axle group weights.

R909-2-23. Mobile and Manufactured Homes.

(1) Mobile and manufactured homes exceeding 14 feet 6 inches to 16 feet in wall-to-wall width, transported on their own running gear, may be issued a single-trip permit under the following conditions:

(a) trailer axles must be equipped with operational brakes; and

(b) Trailer axles and suspensions may not exceed the manufacturer's capacity rating.

(2) The open sides of a mobile manufactured home must be covered by a rigid material of 0.5-millimeter plastic sheathing backed by a rigid grillwork not exceeding squares of four feet to prevent billowing and must fully enclose the open sides of the units in transit.

(3)(a) Rear-mounted stop and turn signal lights must be a minimum of six inches in diameter with a type 35 red reflector lens.

(b) The lens must be mounted not more than 18 inches from the outer edge of the unit and not less than 15 inches or more than 8 feet above the road surface.

(c) Houses, buildings, and structures not manufactured or built to be transported will not require tail, brake, or signal lights mounted on the structures, as a certified pilot and police escort vehicles provide sufficient warning of the intent to brake, turn, or stop.

(4) Two safety chains must be used, one on the right and left sides, but separate from the coupling mechanism connecting the tow vehicle and the mobile and manufactured home while in transit.

(5) Tow vehicles shall comply with the following minimum requirements:

(a) conventional or cab-forward configuration must have a minimum wheelbase of 120 inches;

(b) cab-over-engine tow vehicles must have a minimum wheelbase of 89 inches;

(d) mirrors on each side of the tow vehicle must be arranged so that the driver can see the entire length of both sides of the towed unit.

(6)(a) A trailer used for mobile manufactured homes more than eight feet six inches wide, up to 12 feet wide, and equipped with one axle must have operational brakes.

(b) A minimum of two axles equipped with operative brake assemblies is required on each mobile manufactured home unit more than 12 feet wide.

R909-2-24. Pilot Escort Requirements and Certification Program.

(1) Pilot escort driver requirements. Individuals who operate a pilot escort vehicle must meet the following requirements:

(a) must be a minimum of 18 years of age;

(b) must possess a valid driver's license for the state jurisdiction in which the driver resides;

(c) must obtain a certification card from an authorized, qualified certification program as outlined in this section, and shall have it in their possession while in pilot escort operations;

(d) within 30 days, pilot escort drivers must provide a current Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) certification to the qualified certification program at the time of the course;

(e) no passengers under 16 years of age are allowed in pilot escort vehicles during the movement of oversized loads; and

(f) a pilot escort driver may not perform as a tillerman or steerman while performing pilot escort operations.

(2) Driver certification process.

(a) Drivers domiciled in Utah must complete a Utah pilot escort certification course authorized by the division. A list of authorized instructors may be obtained by contacting (801) 965-4892.

(b) Pilot escort drivers domiciled outside of Utah may operate as a certified pilot escort driver with another state's certification credential, provided the course meets the minimum requirements outlined in the Pilot Escort Training Manual - Best Practices Guidelines as endorsed by the Specialized Carriers and Rigging Association, Federal Highway Administration, and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance.

(c)(i) The department may enter into a reciprocal agreement with other states, provided they can demonstrate that course materials are comprehensive and meet the minimum requirements outlined by the department.

(ii) A current listing of reciprocity states may be obtained by contacting the division at 801-965-4892.

(d)(i) The pilot escort driver's initial certification expires four years from the date issued, and it is the responsibility of the driver to maintain certification.

(ii) One additional four-year certification may be obtained through a mail-in or online re-certification process provided by a qualified pilot escort training entity.

(3) Suspensions and revocations.

(a) Pilot escort drivers may have their certification denied, suspended, or revoked by the division if it is determined that a disqualifying offense has occurred within the previous four years.

(b) Drivers convicted of serious traffic violations, such as excessive speed, reckless driving, and driving maneuvers reserved for emergency vehicles, and driving under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances, may have their certification denied, suspended, or revoked by the division.

(c) The division may suspend for first offenses for up to one year. Subsequent offenses may result in permanent revocation of driver certification.

(d)(i) If a driver is denied pilot escort driving privileges for reasons other than the conditions set forth in this rule, the individual may file an appeal.

(ii) The appeals will be handled by a steering committee created by the division.

(iii) The steering committee will have the powers granted to the deputy director in Section R907-1-3 for appeals from other division administrative actions. The steering committee's decision, if approved by the director of the division, will be considered a final agency order under Administrative Procedures in Rule R907-1.

(4) Pilot escort vehicle standards.

(a) Certification inspections are valid for up to one year.

(b) Pilot escort vehicles may be either a passenger vehicle or a two-axle truck with a 95-inch minimum wheelbase and a maximum gross vehicle weight of 12,000 lbs. and properly registered and licensed as required under Sections 41-1a-201 and 41-1a-401.

(d) Trailers may not be towed at any time while in pilot escort operations.

(e)(i) Pilot escort vehicles must be equipped with a two-way radio capable of transmitting and receiving voice messages over a minimum distance of one-half mile.

(ii) Radio communications must be compatible with accompanying pilot escort vehicles, utility company vehicles, permitted vehicle operators, and police escorts, if necessary.

(iii) If operating with police escorts, a device that allows for two-way communication between police escort vehicles and pilot vehicles is required.

(f) Pilot escort vehicles may not carry a load.

(5) Pilot escort vehicle signing requirements. Sign requirements on pilot escort vehicles are as follows:

(a) pilot escort vehicles must display an "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign, which must be mounted on the top of the pilot escort vehicle;

(b) signs must be a minimum of 5 feet wide by 10 inches high visible surface space, with a solid yellow background and 8-inch-high by 1-inch-wide black letters, and solid means that, if viewed from the front or rear at a 90-degree angle, no light transmits through the sign;

(c) the sign for the front pilot escort vehicle must be displayed so it is always clearly legible and readable by oncoming traffic; and

(d) the rear pilot escort vehicle must display its sign, so it is readable by traffic overtaking from the rear and clearly legible.

(6) Pilot escort vehicle lighting requirements.

(a) A pilot escort vehicle must comply with one of the following lighting requirements:

(i) two amber flashing lights that are:

(A) AAMVA approved;

(B) mounted with one on each side of the required sign;

(D) unobstructed and visible for 360 degrees;

(E) capable of 60 flashes per minute; and

(F) equipped with warning lights that illuminate during operation; or

(ii) an amber beacon or light bar that:

(A) is AAMVA approved;

(B) rotates, oscillates, or flashes;

(D) is equipped with warning lights that illuminate during operation.

(b) The division may approve the use of incandescent, strobe, or diode lights if the lights meet the criteria described in Subsection (6)(a).

(7) Pilot escort vehicle equipment requirements.

(a) Pilot escort vehicles must be equipped with the following safety items:

(i) standard 18-inch or 24-inch red and white "STOP" and black and orange "SLOW" paddle signs, and for nighttime travel moves, signs must be reflective in accordance with MUTCD standards;

(ii) nine reflective triangles or 18-inch reflective orange traffic cones;

(iii) eight red-burning flares, glow sticks, or equivalent illumination devices approved by the division;

(vi) three orange 18-inch-high cones;

(v) a flashlight with a minimum 1 1/2-inch lens diameter, with extra batteries or charger, and an emergency type shake, or crank flashlight will not be allowed;

(vi) six-inch minimum length red or orange cone or traffic wand for use in directing traffic;

(vii) an ANSI or OSHA-approved hardhat;

(viii)(A) for travel during daylight hours, a class two safety vest for each individual involved in the pilot escort operations; or

(B) for travel outside daylight hours, a class three safety vest for each individual involved in the pilot escort operations;

(ix) a height-measuring pole made of a non-conductive, non-destructive, flexible, or frangible material, only required if escorting a vehicle or load exceeding 16 feet in height;

(x) a fire extinguisher;

(xi) a first aid kit that is clearly marked;

(xii) one spare "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign, 7 feet by 18 inches;

(xiii) one serviceable spare tire, tire jack, and lug wrench;

(xiv) a handheld two-way simplex radio or another compatible form of communication for operations outside pilot escort vehicles; and

(xv) vehicles must not have unauthorized equipment on the vehicle, such as that generally reserved for law enforcement personnel.

(8) Police escort vehicle equipment and safety requirements.

(a) Police escort vehicles must be equipped with the following safety items:

(i) a device that allows for two-way communication between police escort vehicles and transport vehicles;

(ii) emergency lighting visible for 360 degrees; and

(iii) clear markings that indicate the vehicle is a police escort.

(b) Before participating in a police escort, each police officer must complete a Utah Law Enforcement Check List and Reporting Criteria Form and submit it to the division.

(i)(A) verify that a pilot escort vehicle has a current pilot escort inspection; or

(B) perform an inspection of the pilot escort vehicle before load movement; and

(ii) wear a police officer uniform.

(9) Insurance for pilot escort vehicles.

(a) A driver must possess a current certificate of insurance or endorsement that indicates that the driver, or the driver's employer, has in effect not less than $750,000 combined single limit coverage for bodily injury and property damage as a result of the operation of the escort vehicle, the escort vehicle operator, or both causing the bodily injury and property damage arising out of an act or omission by the pilot escort vehicle operator of the escort duties required by the regulations. The insurance or endorsement, as applicable, must always be maintained during the term of the pilot escort certification.

(b) Pilot escort vehicles must have a minimum amount of $750,000 liability. This is not a cumulative amount.

(10) Pre-trip planning and coordination requirements. A coordination and planning meeting must be held before load movement. The drivers carrying or pulling the oversized loads, the pilot escort vehicle drivers, law enforcement officers, department personnel, and public utility company representatives must attend as required. When police escorts are present, a Utah Law Enforcement Checklist and Reporting Criteria Form must be completed. This meeting must include discussion and coordination on the conduct of the move, including at least the following topics:

(a) the person designated as being in charge, such as a department representative or a law enforcement officer;

(b) documentation for authorized routing and permit conditions is distributed to the appropriate individuals involved in the move;

(d) permitted dimensions will be verified with measurement of vehicle and load dimensions; and

(e) copies of the permit and routing documents must be provided to parties involved with the permitted load movement.

(11) Permitted vehicle restrictions on certain highways. Certified pilot escort operators must refer to the highway restrictions specified in the secondary highway restrictions before load movements.

(12) Flagging requirements.

(a) During the movement of an over-dimensional load or vehicle, the pilot escort driver, in the performance of the flagging duties required by this section, may control and direct traffic to stop, slow, or proceed in any situations where it is deemed necessary to protect the motoring public from the hazards associated with the movement of the over-dimensional load or vehicle. The pilot escort driver, acting as a flagger, may aid the over-dimensional load or vehicle in the safe movement along the highway designated on the over-dimensional load permit and must:

(i) assume the proper flagger position outside the pilot escort vehicle, and as a minimum standard, have in use the necessary safety equipment as defined in 6E.1 of the MUTCD;

(ii) use "STOP" and "SLOW" paddles or a 24-inch red or fluorescent orange or red square flag to indicate emergency situations, and other equipment as described in 6E.1 of the MUTCD; and

(iii) comply with the flagging procedures and requirements as set forth in the MUTCD and the Utah Department of Transportation Flagger Training Handbook.

R909-2-25. Requirements for Pilot Escort Qualified Training and Certification Programs.

(1) Application process. Application to become a third-party pilot escort trainer or instructor must be made on a form furnished by the division, and must include the following:

(a) name and address of entity;

(b) list of instructors;

(c) resumes of each instructor outlining related experience in the pilot escort, heavy haul, academia, or commercial vehicle enforcement fields;

(d) a copy of the entity's business license;

(e) sample of digital image certification card that will be issued to students upon completion of the course;

(f) sample of the "Flagger" certification card that will be issued to students upon completion of the course;

(g) procedural guidelines that outline security measures implemented to safeguard students' personal information; and

(h) copies of the course curriculum and testing materials. Course materials will be reviewed and approved by the division to ensure that requirements are met.

(2) Course curriculum requirements. An extensive course curriculum description and information can be obtained by contacting the UDOT Motor Carrier Division Customer Service or Superload team at (801) 965-4892. Course curriculum to certify pilot escort drivers to operate in Utah must cover the following topics:

(a) division rules governing oversize load movements;

(b) pilot escort operations;

(d) oversized or overweight load movement, coordination, planning, and communication requirements and best practices;

(e) pilot escort vehicle positioning and situational training;

(f) rail grade crossing safety;

(g) routing techniques, including pre-trip surveys; and

(h) insurance coverage requirements and liability issues.

(3) Testing procedures. Testing materials must be submitted to the division for approval. Tests should be structured with a minimum of 40 questions per exam. A minimum of two different examinations must be submitted and used randomly during the instruction of the course, and structured as follows:

(a) 12 Fill in the blank;

(b) 12 Multiple choice;

(d) one to six questions dealing with safety equipment;

(e) one to four questions dealing with the duties of pilot escort drivers;

(f) one to six questions dealing with the maintenance of equipment; and

(g) one to six questions dealing with items that must be collected in a route survey.

(4) Grading of examinations.

(a) An authorized trainer must provide an explanation to the division of how the test will be administered.

(b) Students must pass with an 80% score to be certified.

(c) Students receiving less than an 80% score will be allowed to attend one additional class without additional cost, except for reimbursement of any additional materials and postage costs.

(d) If the division terminates a contract with an entity providing third-party pilot escort training, the entity shall provide to the division electronic documentation regarding students who completed the courses administered by the entity.

(5) Applicant Recertification Procedures.

(a) An authorized trainer shall provide means through which an individual may be recertified either by mail or the internet.

(b) The authorized trainer shall submit written procedures documenting the process for the examination that will allow the applicant to recertify. The examination must not be a duplicate of the examination used during the initial certification process and should be constructed to educate the student on updates pertaining to pilot escort certification and legal requirements.

(d) Applicants receiving less than an 80% score will be allowed to retake the certification exam one additional time at no additional cost except for reimbursement of any additional materials and postage costs.

(e) Students receiving less than an 80% score will be allowed to attend one additional class or certify by mail or online without additional cost, except for reimbursement of any additional materials and postage costs.

(6) Training costs.

(a) Costs associated with providing classroom instruction, materials, testing, and credentialing will be the responsibility of the authorized trainer.

(b) These costs may be passed on to the students for certification in the form of tuition determined by the authorized trainer based on the business model and expenses.

(7) Suspensions and revocations of pilot escort training entities.

(a) The division may suspend or revoke the authorization to provide services if the entity fails to meet conditions and requirements set forth in of this section.

(b)(i) If an entity has the authority to provide training services revoked or suspended, the entity may appeal the decision.

(ii) The appeals will be handled by a steering committee created by the division.

(iii) The steering committee will have the powers granted to the department's deputy director for appeals from other division administrative actions.

(iv) The steering committee's decision, if approved by the director of the division, will be considered a final agency order under the Utah Administrative Procedures Act.

(8) The division has the right to review:

(a) rates;

(b) fees;

(d) the certification process is established by an authorized trainer when the division deems it necessary to ensure compliance with this rule.

(9) Record retention and data management requirements. Authorized trainers must maintain the following certification and recertification records for a period of eight years:

(a) student's name, address, and contact information;

(b) driver's license number, original MVR, and original proof of insurance information from insurance provider;

(d) digital copy of certification flagger card, including photo;

(e) training and expiration dates on students;

(f) recertification and expiration dates; and

(g) list of instructors, proctors, administrators, and a copy of their resumes, and the date of classroom instruction and re-certification dates, providing services.

(10)(a) Records may be scanned and kept electronically, provided the authorized trainer has the necessary data backup and retrieval procedures.

(b) The division has the right to review any records retained and may observe the instruction given both in the classroom and through the recertification process when the division deems it necessary to ensure compliance with this rule.

(c) The loss, mutilation, or destruction of any records which an authorized trainer is required to maintain must be immediately reported by the authorized trainer by an affidavit stating the date these records were lost, mutilated, or destroyed, and the circumstances involving the loss, mutilation, or destruction.

(d) Records must be retained by the authorized trainer for eight years, except for the computerized file, which is to be kept permanently, during which time the authorized trainer will be subject to inspection by the division during reasonable business hours. If the authorized trainer goes out of business, the permanent record must be submitted by the entity to the division.

(e) It is the responsibility of the authorized trainer to provide a list of applicants who have successfully recertified, along with the corresponding grade, to the division at the end of each quarter of each calendar year.

(f) Records, including computerized records, must be provided to the division if requested for an audit or review of the authorized trainer's records. Failure to provide records as requested by the division is a violation of this rule.

(g) Entities must maintain accurate, up-to-date records.

R909-2-26. Farmers, Implements of Husbandry and Agricultural Operations.

(1) Vehicle combinations for hay truck operations may transport two rolls or bales of hay side by side if:

(a) the two rolls or bales are ten feet or less in combined width;

(b) the load is being transported with a valid non-divisible oversize permit;

(c) oversized vehicles or loads exceeding 8 feet 6 inches may not be transported on double trailers exceeding 61 feet in cargo or cargo carrying length;

(d) the load must meet other divisible load requirements in Section R909-2-21; and

(e) loads are properly secured.

(2) Implements of husbandry moved by a farmer, rancher, or their employees in connection with an agricultural operation must comply with:

(a) every farm tractor and towed farm equipment, towed or self-propelled implements of husbandry, designed for operation at speeds not more than 25 miles per hour, must always be equipped with a slow-moving vehicle emblem mounted on the rear; and

(b) every farm tractor and every self-propelled implement of husbandry manufactured or assembled after January 1970 shall be equipped with vehicular hazard warning lights visible from a distance not less than 1,000 feet to the front and rear in normal sunlight, which must be displayed when any vehicle is operated upon a highway.

R909-2-27. Snowplow Operations.

(1) Blades more than eight feet six inches must be equipped with a yellow, rotating beacon warning light.

(2) Snowplows with up to 12-foot-wide blades may operate without oversize permits, if they comply with:

(a) lights which provide adequate illumination if the blade is in either up or down position;

(b) signaling lights must not be obscured; and

(c) blades must be angled so that the minimum width is exposed to oncoming traffic during periods of travel between jobs.

R909-2-28. Parade Floats.

(1) Parade floats are not required to obtain an overweight or oversized permit, but they must meet the following requirements:

(a) floats must have sufficient proof of insurance;

(b) floats must carry the necessary safety equipment for the safe operation of the vehicle during movement;

(d) movement to and from parades should be made only during daylight hours unless the vehicle is adequately lighted and there is minimal congestion; and

(e) floats more than 14 feet 6 inches in height, must be routed by the division.

R909-2-29. Transportation of Utility Poles.

(1) Utility poles may be transported up to 120 feet in overall length, including overhangs, with a single-trip, semi-annual, or annual permit by the following:

(a) oversized load restrictions;

(b) pilot escort requirements;

(d) signing and lighting requirements.

(2)(a) Permits are issued to the trailer transporting the poles using the trailer registration information.

(b) Upon the company's request, the permit may be issued to the truck or truck tractor.

R909-2-30. Special Mobile Equipment.

(1) Special mobile equipment or SME is defined in Section 41-1a-102 and refers to vehicles:

(a) not designed or used primarily for the transportation of persons or property;

(b) not designed to operate in traffic; and

(2) Special mobile equipment exempt from registration includes:

(a) farm tractors; and

(b) off-road motorized construction or maintenance equipment, including backhoes, bulldozers, compactors, graders, loaders, road rollers, tractors, trenchers, and ditch-digging apparatus.

(3) Heavy equipment designed for off-highway uses, such as scrapers, loaders, off-highway cranes, and rock trucks, but not tracked vehicles, may be issued single-trip permits to operate under their own power, on approved routes other than interstate highways, as follows:

(a) the distance traveled may not generally exceed 20 miles;

(b) only daylight trips are authorized, and oversize restrictions apply;

(d) single axles equipped with single tires may not be authorized to exceed 40,000 pounds;

(e) a minimum of one pilot escort vehicle is required; and

(f) special mobile equipment shall be routed by the division before making a trip.

(4)(a) Persons who operate or cause to operate an SME exempt from registration must submit a completed special mobile equipment affidavit to the division.

(b) To be deemed complete, an affidavit must be on the form provided by the division and the required fields filled in. Affidavits will be available at ports of entry. Affidavits must be turned in at the port of entry.

(c) Special mobile equipment exempt from registration must carry a copy of the approved affidavit in the vehicle at all times.

(d) Vehicles that are not special mobile equipment must register with the Utah State Tax Commission before operating the vehicle on a public highway.

(e) Upon receipt of a denial of special mobile equipment, if the owner or operator wishes to appeal the decision of the division, a petition may be filed with the department within 30 days.

(f) A response to an appeal from the department will be made in writing within 30 days.

R909-2-31. Special Truck Equipment.

(1) The following vehicle configurations are considered special truck equipment:

(a) concrete pumper trucks;

(b) cranes or trucks performing crane service with a crane lift capacity of five tons or more; and

(2)(a) Vehicles classified as special truck equipment may be issued an oversized or overweight permit if exceeding legal dimensions.

(b) An approved profile sheet for special truck equipment must be carried in the vehicle with the permit if the axle limitations specified in Section R909-2-5 Table 2 or the actual bridge or gross weight are exceeded.

(3) Vehicles classified as special truck equipment are eligible for a 50% registration fee reduction.

R909-2-32. Port - of -Entry Bypass Permit Provisions.

(1) A temporary bypass permit may be issued to accommodate the multi-trip highway transportation needs of motor carriers who meet the following criteria:

(a)(i) Motor carriers must meet the multi-trip definition to receive and maintain bypass privileges.

(ii) A motor carrier may receive an exception from this requirement on a case-by-case basis if the motor carrier can demonstrate that denial of a bypass permit will cause a hardship if the vehicle must be diverted to a port of entry.

(b)(i) The basis for qualification to participate in the bypass program is based in part on the carrier's safety history as shown in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Safety Measurement System.

(ii) A motor carrier with a CSA basic score equal to or greater than the intervention thresholds noted in Table Seven for General, HM, and Passenger, plus one other BASIC at or above the motor carrier threshold, is not eligible to participate in the bypass program.

(iii) A motor carrier is not eligible for a bypass permit if the motor carrier meets the definition of a High-Risk Motor Carrier in Table Seven.

TABLE 7

High-risk Motor Carrier Criteria

Basic

General

Passenger

Unsafe Driving

65%

60%

50%

Fatigue Driving (HOS)

65%

60%

50%

Driver Fitness

80%

75%

65%

Controlled Substances and Alcohol

80%

75%

65%

Vehicle Maintenance

80%

75%

65%

Cargo-Related

80%

75%

65%

Crash Indicator

65%

60%

50%

(c) A motor carrier may become eligible for a bypass permit after a focused or comprehensive review indicates that the motor carrier is in compliance.

(d) As a condition of receiving a bypass permit, a motor carrier is subject to audits, safety assessments, and inspections as the division considers necessary to carry out state and federal law.

(e) Vehicles that obtain bypass privileges must have a weight ticket, from a scale certified by the Department of Agriculture, available for inspection by law enforcement. Scale tickets must be electronically printed and must specify the time, date, unit-specific information, and destination.

(2)(a) Bypass applications must be submitted to the division.

(b) Motor carriers must reapply annually for bypass privileges.

(d) Motor carriers who lease vehicles from a subcontractor must ensure that the established bypass criterion is met to maintain privileges.

(e) Bypass permit privileges are valid from the approval date and expire at the end of the application year on December 31.

(f) Applications must show routing information, including point of origin, destination, and routine routes traveled.

(3) Approved vehicles within a motor carrier's fleet will be issued a bypass decal, specific to each vehicle, and will receive a bypass certificate that must be carried in the vehicle.

(4) Bypass privileges may be granted to motor carriers traversing multiple ports of entry within the same route.

(5) Authorized bypass routes are allowed for the following Port of Entries:

(a) Daniels Port of Entry on SR 40 with empty vehicles, traveling eastbound only;

(b) Kanab Port of Entry on Highway 89 from Kanab's Main Street to the Kanab Port of Entry, while traveling on Hwy 389 between Las Vegas, Nevada, and Page, Arizona, and vehicles must clear the St. George Port of Entry;

(d) Monticello Port of Entry may be bypassed on US-191 with empty vehicles only.

(6) Bypass privileges may be revoked or suspended should a motor carrier fail to meet the safety standards as set forth in the:

(a) Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration;

(b) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations;

(d) bypass zone routes; and

(e) out-of-service criteria.

(7)(a) If an application for a bypass permit is denied, the motor carrier may file an appeal.

(b) The appeal will be handled by the division hearing officer.

(8) The division, upon request, may notify local law enforcement agencies of those motor carriers meeting the criteria for bypass privileges.

R909-2-33. Annual Review of Permit Regulations and Conditions.

(1) During a Motor Carrier Advisory Board meeting, the board will review permit conditions and regulations as needed.

(2) Motor Carrier Advisory Board meetings provide a forum for interested parties to provide evidence to support or challenge regulation or permit condition modification.

(3) Interested parties must notify the division of these issues by March 1st of each year to ensure placement on the agenda.

KEY: permits, safety regulations, size and weight, trucks

Date of Last Change: March 16, 2026

Notice of Continuation: April 30, 2024

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 72-1-201; 72-7-406; 72-9-303; 41-1a-102; 41-1a-231; 41-1a-1206; 72-7-402; 72-7-404; 72-7-407; 72-9-301; 72-9-502