California DOT Regulations for Oversize/Overweight Load Flags/Banners/Signs/Lights, Running Hours and Holiday Restrictions

Running Hours and Holiday Restrictions

Basic: 24 hours, 7 days a week (with many exceptions for larger loads). Oversized loads are not permitted during the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Permits will specify variances to permitted travel times. No travel from 6 AM until 9 AM in/around Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento & San Francisco.

"Oversized Load" Banner Regulations and Requirements

“Oversize Load” signs are required front and rear for all oversize loads. Signs that state the exact nature of the shipment; “WIDELOAD”, “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “LONG LOAD”, “EXCESSIVE FRONT OVERHANG”, “EXCESSIVE REAR OVERHANG”. If the shipment is over 100′ overall then the “LONG LOAD” sigh shall be displayed and the “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign is to be displayed for lesser lengths and other oversize configurations. Letters: 10" high, 1 5/8" stroke Background: Yellow

Flag Requirements

Flags are required at all four corners of any extremities of wide and over length loads, and at the end of load projections greater than 4 feet.

Warning Lights: Color and Placement

Must have a amber colored strobing or flashing light affixed to the top of the tractor trailer cab that is visible 360 degrees from a minimum distance of 500′. Two (2) red lights required on the side and rear attached to the load or extremities including any projection greater than 4'.

Source of Information:

http://www.dot.ca.gov/trafficops/permits/manual.html

What is considered as "Oversized Load" in California?

Dimensions: Width: 8' 6" Height: 14' Length Overall: 53' Overhang: Front 3', Rear 6' (Note: This is subject to many local variations and conditions.)