Current through Register 1531, September 27, 2024
(1)
Scope and
Organization.
(a)
Over-weight Vehicles; Over-size Vehicles; Small Tandem Units; and
Vehicles Carrying Reducible Loads, Explosives, and Special Fuel.
700 CMR 7.07 establishes limitations on use and provides for special permits
with respect to: over-weight vehicles, 700 CMR 7.07(3); vehicles carrying
reducible loads, 700 CMR 7.07(3); small tandem units, 700 CMR 7.07(3)(c)4.;
over-size vehicles, 700 CMR 7.07(4); vehicles carrying explosives, 700 CMR
7.07(5); and vehicles carrying a special fuel, 700 CMR 7.07(6).
(b)
Applicability to Large Tandem
Units. The provisions of 700 CMR 7.07 apply to large tandem units,
except that
700 CMR 7.08(3)
and (4) governing length and weight
limitations, respectively, applicable to large tandem units, supersede any
conflicting provisions of 700 CMR 7.07.
(2)
Practices and Procedures
regarding Special Permits.
(a)
Application to the Department. An owner or operator
(applicant) may apply to the Department for a special permit on a written form
(application) that the Department provides for this purpose. The Chief Engineer
may approve an application on those terms or conditions, if any, as the Chief
Engineer determines are consistent with the safe and efficient operation of the
way over which permission to travel is sought. The Department accepts
applications mailed or delivered to the office of the Chief Engineer and may,
at its discretion, accept applications online through the Department's permit
application portal.
(b)
Payment of Fees. An applicant must pay the fees that
are specified in the application and in 700 CMR 7.07(3)(c)3.: Table
5. The Department specifies on the application the time and manner of
payment.
(c)
Approval
or Disapproval. The Department notifies the applicant of the
approval or disapproval of the application as soon as is reasonably practicable
and in a manner specified on the application.
(d)
Discretion of the
Department. The Department may at any time decline to issue, or
place restrictions in any special permit with or without a prior hearing as it
determines. The Department may at any time suspend or revoke a special permit.
The Department provides a hearing with respect to any such decision in the
manner and to the extent required by law.
(e)
Effect of
Misrepresentation. A material misrepresentation as to the weight
or the dimensions of a vehicle or its load, or the nature of the load, that an
applicant or the applicant's agent, employee, or lessee makes to the Department
voids the special permit under which the vehicle is operating. A Massachusetts
State Police officer or an authorized employee of the Department may verify at
any time the weight, dimensions, or load of a vehicle.
(f)
Not Transferable
. A special permit is valid only for the vehicle or vehicles that the
Department approves in the special permit and is not transferable to another
vehicle.
(g)
Emergency
Suspension. The Department, acting by the responsible commanding
officer of the Massachusetts State Police or, in the absence of the commanding
officer, the officer's designee, may suspend the use of a special permit when
road or weather conditions or the volume of traffic warrant doing so, as the
commanding officer or designee determines.
(h)
Restrictions on Irreducible
Load Permits. An irreducible load permit is valid for a trip in
one direction through one of the Tunnels or between specified interchanges on
the Turnpike unless the permit specifies otherwise. The Department may restrict
travel under an irreducible load permit to specified days or hours. The
Department ordinarily does not issue an irreducible load permit for travel in
the Sumner Tunnel or the Ted Williams Tunnel in the direction away from Logan
Airport between 7:00 A.M. and 10:00 A.M. or in the Callahan Tunnel or Ted
Williams Tunnel in the direction toward Logan airport between 3:00 P.M. and
7:00 P.M. The Department ordinarily does not issue an irreducible load permit
for travel on the Turnpike between Interchange 11A in Westborough and
Interchange 24 in Boston eastbound between 7:00 A.M. and 10:00 A.M. or
westbound between 3:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M.
(i)
No
Representation. The Department's issuance of a special permit does
not constitute a representation by the Department of the adequacy of the way to
support or accommodate the passage of a special permit vehicle with its
load.
(j)
Applicant's
Responsibility. An applicant is responsible for injury to, or the
death of, individuals and for damage to the Department or public or private
property resulting directly or indirectly from the presence on a way of a
special permit vehicle or its operation by the applicant, whether owner or
lessee, or by the applicant's agents, employees, or contractors. By applying
for and using a special permit, an applicant agrees to save the Department, its
members, officers, and employees harmless from liability for any such injury,
death, or damage. The Department requires that an applicant agree to indemnify
the Department against damage or injury resulting from the operation of the
special permit vehicle on the way and to maintain such insurance as the
Department considers appropriate as specified in the application. By submitting
an application for a special permit, an applicant agrees to these requirements
and certifies that the required insurance is in force.
(k)
Demonstration of Need for
Irreducible Load Permit. An applicant for an irreducible load
permit must demonstrate the number of work hours required to dismantle the
load.
(l)
Circumstances
under Which a Special Permit Is Not Issued. The Department does
not issue a special permit with respect to weight, and a vehicle may not use a
way, if the vehicle weight exceeds the gross vehicle weight rating or the gross
weight for which the vehicle is registered, except that the Department may
issue a special permit for a vehicle having a vehicle weight in excess of its
registered gross weight if it is owned or leased by a carrier that is not
domiciled in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(m)
Tandem Units Not Permitted in
the Tunnels. Except as provided in 700 CMR 7.07(3)(c)4. and
notwithstanding any other provision of 700 CMR 7.07 to the contrary, tandem
units are not permitted in the Tunnels.
(3)
Limitations on
Weight.
(a)
Circumstances under Which No Special Permit Is
Required. A vehicle does not require a special permit with respect
to its weight if the vehicle weight does not exceed the maximum vehicle weight
indicated in 700 CMR 7.07(3):
Table 2 for a vehicle of its
type, except that a special permit may nonetheless be required in accordance
with the provisions of 700 CMR 7.07(3)(b)2. or 3. A vehicle may not use a way
if its vehicle weight does not conform to the requirements of 700 CMR 7.07.
TABLE 3
|
Type of Vehicle |
Maximum Vehicle Weight |
|
Motor Vehicle with two axles |
46,000 lbs. |
|
Vehicle or vehicle combination with three
axles |
73,000 lbs. |
|
Vehicle or vehicle combination with four or more
axles |
87,000 lbs. |
|
Vehicle or vehicle combination with five or more
axles |
99,000 lbs. |
(b)
Circumstances under Which a Special Permit Is Required
. A motor vehicle, vehicle, or vehicle combination requires a special permit
with respect to its size only when compliance with the maximum size limitations
specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)1., 2., or 3. is impossible or
impractical.
(c)
Type
of Special Permit Issued (Over-size). The Department issues
special permits for over-size vehicles in accordance with the following
provisions:
1.
Irreducible Load
Permit. A vehicle requires an irreducible load permit if the
vehicle width exceeds the maximum vehicle width permitted under 700 CMR
7.07(4)(a)1.; the vehicle height exceeds the maximum vehicle height permitted
under 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)2.; or, the vehicle length exceeds the maximum vehicle
length allowed for a vehicle of its type as specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)3.
The Department does not issue an irreducible load permit if it
believes that a load can be divided or arranged so as to conform with the
limitations on its width, height, or length. The Department may prohibit an
over-size vehicle from using a way if, in the opinion of the Chief Engineer,
safety or the public convenience warrants the prohibition.
The Department may issue, upon the approval of the Chief
Engineer, an irreducible load permit in accordance with the procedures and
subject to the terms of 700 CMR 7.07(2) and (4)(f).
The applicant must pay the fee that is specified on the permit
application and in 700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 5. This fee is in
addition to the regular toll charge based on the classification of the vehicle
under
700 CMR
7.03(1). In the case of
multiple trips of a single vehicle or a convoy of vehicles, the fee represents
the total fee due up to a maximum number of trips of two or more as determined
by the Chief Engineer, provided that the applicant specifies on the application
referred to in 700 CMR 7.07(2)(a) the number of anticipated multiple trips, the
time period in which they will be completed, and any other information that the
application or the Chief Engineer requires.
2.
Use of the Ted Williams
Tunnel, Including the South Boston Bypass Road . A vehicle that
exceeds any of the applicable maximum dimensions specified in 700 CMR
7.07(4)(a)1., 2., or 3. requires an irreducible load permit for use of the Ted
Williams Tunnel, including the South Boston Bypass Road for construction
equipment. An original annual permit for construction equipment issued by the
Department must be kept in an accessible place in the vehicle for which it was
issued and must be presented to an official or employee of the Department, or
Massachusetts State Police officer on demand. The operator of the vehicle is
responsible for the regular toll charge based on the classification of the
vehicle under
700 CMR
7.03(1).
3.
Reducible Load
Permit. The Department issues a reducible load permit in
accordance with the procedures and subject to the terms of 700 CMR 7.07(2) and
subject to 700 CMR 7.07(2)(1) for vehicles weighing not more than the maximum
vehicle weight indicated in 700 CMR 7.07(3):
Table 4.
TABLE 5
|
Type of Permit |
Fee |
|
Irreducible Load Permit -
Exceeding Any Legal Limit for Size and Weight
Pursuant to
700 CMR 7.00 |
$400.00 - Annually for Travel on Turnpike and
MHS |
|
Irreducible Load Permit -
Exceeding Any Legal Limit for Size and Weight
Pursuant to
700 CMR 7.00 |
$40.00 Per Trip on Turnpike and MHS |
|
Reducible Load Permit -
Exceeding Any Legal Limit for Size and Weight
Pursuant to
700 CMR 7.00 |
$50.00 per 1,000 Pounds Exceeding the Federal Bridge
Formula |
|
Tandem Trailer Permit |
$300.00 Application Fee
$75.00 for First Card
$25.00 for Each Additional Card |
|
Explosives Permit |
$300.00 Application Fee
$75.00 for First Card
$25.00 for Each Additional Card |
|
Special Fuel Hauling |
$300.00 Application Fee
$75.00 for First Card
$25.00 for Each Additional Card |
|
Super Load
Weight >130,000 pounds - Detailed Engineering
Calculations Required |
$300.00 Single Trip on Turnpike and MHS |
TABLE 6
|
Type of Vehicle |
Maximum Vehicle Weight |
|
Vehicle or vehicle combination with three
axles |
73,000 lbs. |
|
Vehicle or vehicle combination with four
axles |
87,000 lbs. |
|
Vehicle or vehicle combination with five or more
axles |
99,000 lbs. |
A reducible load permit issued to an owner or lessee may be
used in connection with a valid sticker issued by the Registrar of Motor
Vehicles in accordance with M.G.L. c. 90, § 19D. An original reducible
load permit must be kept in an accessible place in the vehicle for which it was
issued and must be presented to an official or employee of the Department, or
Massachusetts State Police officer on demand. A copy of the original is not an
acceptable substitute. In enforcing compliance with 700 CMR 7.07(3)(c)2., the
Department provides an allowance of 5% above the maximum vehicle weights
specified in 700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 6, rounded to the nearest
500 pounds. For example, a vehicle with five or more axles is deemed to be in
compliance with the weight requirement of its reducible load permit provided
that the vehicle and its load weighs not more than 105% of 99,000 pounds or
104,000 pounds.
The applicant must pay the nonrefundable fee that is specified
on the permit application and in 700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 5.
Upon application and payment of this fee, the Department issues the number of
reducible load permits as the owner or lessee may request for the vehicles of
the owner. The fee for a reducible load permit is in addition to the regular
toll charge based on the classification of the vehicle under
700 CMR
7.03(1).
4.
Small Tandem Unit
Permit. The Department may issue a special permit for
small tandem units in accordance with the procedures and subject to the terms
of 700 CMR 7.07(2). An operator may operate a small tandem unit in the
Prudential Tunnel and portions of the Seaport Access Tunnel (I-90 Connector
Tunnel) in accordance with the conditions contained in said permit, only if the
Department has issued a small tandem unit permit or any renewal thereof
pursuant to 700 CMR 7.07 and the permit and any renewal thereof has not expired
or been revoked.
The applicant must pay the fee that is specified on the permit
application and in 700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 5. The fee is in addition to the
regular toll charge based on the classification of the vehicle under
700 CMR
7.03(1).
An original annual permit for small tandem units must be kept
in an accessible place in the vehicle for which it was issued and must be
presented to an official or employee of the Department, or Massachusetts State
Police officer on demand. The operator of the vehicle is responsible for the
regular toll charge based on the classification of the vehicle under
700 CMR
7.03(1).
(d)
Pilot
Car.
1.
When
Required. A pilot car must follow an over-size vehicle if: the
overhang is four or more feet and the load consists of poles, masts, booms, or
similar shapes or if the overhang is ten feet or more; the over-size vehicle is
a drill rig with boom, a shovel, or a crane; the over-size vehicle is
odd-shaped or has an odd-shaped load; or the over-size vehicle is not a tandem
unit or a semi-trailer unit with a semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and
has a length of more than 90 feet up to and including 100 feet or a width of
more than 12 feet up to and including 13'6".
2.
When Required - Vehicles
Traveling on the MHS. A pilot car must follow an over-size vehicle
traveling on the MHS if: the overhang is four or more feet and the load
consists of poles, masts, booms, or similar shapes or if the overhang is ten
feet or more; the over-size vehicle is a drill rig with boom, a shovel, or a
crane; the over-size vehicle is odd shaped or has an odd shaped load; or the
over-size vehicle is not a tandem unit or a semi-trailer unit with a
semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and has a length of more than 80 feet and
up to and including 95 feet, or a width of more than 12 feet.
3.
Convoy Pilot Car
. If two or more over-size vehicles are in convoy, one may be pilot for the
other, but a separate pilot car must follow the last over-size vehicle.
MassDOT, in its sole discretion, may allow for convoys. MassDOT may place any
restrictions in the permit it deems necessary for the safe travel of such
vehicles including, but not limited to, time of travel, dimensional
restrictions, and/or escort requirements.
4.
Preceding and Following Pilot
Cars. If an over-size vehicle is not a tandem unit or a
semi-trailer unit with a semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and has a length
of more than 100 feet up to and including 135 feet, or width of more than 13'6"
up to and including 16 feet, it must have pilot cars preceding and following
it.
5.
Preceding and
Following Pilot Cars - Vehicles Traveling on the MHS. If an
over-size vehicle traveling on the MHS is not a tandem unit or a semi-trailer
unit with semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and has a length of more than
95 feet, or width of more than 13'6" up to and including 16 feet, it must have
pilot cars preceding and following it.
6.
Requirements for a Pilot
Car. A pilot car must be a truck with two axles and four wheels or
a private passenger motor vehicle and must have two flashing amber lights
visible from front and rear; 24 inch by 24 inch red flags on the right and left
rear of the pilot car; and a sign reading: "Oversize Load".
7.
State Police
Escort. In addition to the requirements with respect to a pilot
car as specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(d), an over-size vehicle, with its load,
that is wider than 16 feet or longer than 135 feet must be escorted by two
motor vehicles of the Massachusetts State Police. Any vehicle that, in the
opinion of t he Chief Engineer, may be incapable of operating at a minimum
speed such that it may pose a danger to individuals, property, or the safe
operation of a way, may be required to be accompanied by motor vehicles of the
Massachusetts State Police.
8.
Oversize Load Sign. An oversize vehicle that is not
required to be accompanied by a pilot car must have a sign on the rear reading:
"Oversize Load".
(e)
Tandem Units and Certain Saddlemount Combinations Not Permitted in
the Tunnels. Subject to 700 CMR 7.07(3)(c)4., and notwithstanding
any other provision of 700 CMR 7.07 to the contrary, and irrespective of their
length, tandem units, double saddlemount combinations, and triple saddlemount
combinations are not permitted in the Tunnels.
(f)
Height
Indication. No vehicle that has a total height exceeding ten feet,
excluding the height of its load, may be operated on a way unless the
measurement of the total height is painted or printed in letters and numerals
at least four inches high in a conspicuous place upon the side or front of the
vehicle.
(g)
Responsibility of Operator. The operator of an
over-size vehicle is responsible for checking the clearance of the vehicle and
its load through any toll lane or canopy and for checking structures on a way
for available clearance with respect to movements by the oversize vehicle or by
load movements. The operator is subject to the penalty provided in
700 CMR 7.13(3)(a)
for failure to exercise this care. The
Department imposes this penalty in addition to holding the operator liable for
the damage resulting from failure to exercise this care.
(4)
Limitations on
Size.
(a)
Circumstances under Which No Special Permit Is
Required. A vehicle does not require a special permit with respect
to its size if the vehicle does not exceed any of the applicable maximum
dimensions specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)1., 2., or 3.
1.
Width. The
vehicle width is no greater than eight feet, six inches for use of the Tunnels
and the vehicle width is no greater than eight feet, six inches for use of a
way other than the Tunnels.
2.
Height. The vehicle height is no greater than the
maximum vehicle height for the way upon which the vehicle is traveling as
indicated in 700 CMR 7.07(4): Table 7.
TABLE 7
|
Way |
Maximum Vehicle Height |
|
Turnpike |
13 feet 6 inches |
|
Ted Williams Tunnel |
13 feet 6 inches |
|
Callahan Tunnel |
12 feet 6 inches |
|
Sumner Tunnel |
12 feet 6 inches |
|
Thomas P. O'Neill, Jr., Tunnel |
13 feet 6 inches |
|
Prudential Tunnel |
13 feet 6 inches |
|
CANA (City Square) Tunnels |
13 feet 6 inches |
|
Other Way Not Listed above |
13 feet 6 inches |
3.
Length. For use of the Tunnels, the vehicle length is
no greater than the maximum vehicle length for a vehicle of its type as
indicated in 700 CMR 7.07(4):
Table 8 and, in the case of a
tandem unit operating on a way, as indicated in Note 4 to 700 CMR 7.07(4):
Table 8. For use of a way other than the Tunnels, the vehicle
length is no greater than 55 feet for a vehicle with more than two axles,
except a bus; the vehicle length is no greater than 45 feet for a bus; and the
vehicle length is no greater than 100 feet for a vehicle combination, except a
vehicle combination listed in
700 CMR
7.06(4):
Table
8 and a vehicle subject to
700 CMR
7.08.
TABLE 8
|
Type of Vehicle |
Maximum Vehicle Length |
|
Motor vehicle not of the type listed below in 700 CMR
7.07(4): Table 8 |
33 feet |
|
Vehicle combination other than semi-trailer unit and
not of a combination type listed below in 700 CMR 7.07(4): Table
8 |
60 feet (see Note 1) |
|
Articulated Bus |
60 feet |
|
Auto Home |
40 feet |
|
Automobile Transporter (traditional) |
65 feet (see Note 2) |
|
Automobile Transporter
(stinger-steered) |
75 feet (see Note 2) |
|
Boat Transporter (traditional) |
65 feet (see Note 2) |
|
Boat Transporter (truck-trailer) |
65 feet (see Note 2) |
|
Boat Transporter (stinger-steered) |
75 feet (see Note 2) |
|
Bus or School Bus |
45 feet |
|
House Trailer |
40 feet |
|
Saddlemount Combination |
75 feet (see Note 3) |
|
Semi-trailer |
53 feet |
|
Tandem unit |
(see Note 4) |
|
Trailer in tractor-trailer
combination |
53 feet |
|
Trailer not in tractor-trailer
combination |
33 feet |
|
Truck |
40 feet |
Note 1: No overall length limitation
applies to a semi-trailer unit with a semi-trailer up to 53 feet in length. For
purposes of 700 CMR 7.07(4): Table 8, the combination of a
motor vehicle designed for towing and a vehicle or combination of vehicles
being towed because of disablement or emergency does not constitute a vehicle
combination and thus is not subject as a vehicle combination to the length
limitations of 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)3., but a Massachusetts State Police officer
or an official of the Department designated to make such decisions may preclude
such a towing motor vehicle and towed vehicle or vehicle combination from using
a way for reasons of safety.
Note 2: The vehicle length includes
front and rear bumpers, but does not include a load overhang up to three feet
beyond the foremost part of the front transporting vehicle or more than four
feet beyond the rear bed of the rear vehicle.
Note 3: A number of vehicles may be
transported in combination by means of saddlemount combination or fullmount
mechanism. Vehicles using these mechanisms must conform to M.G.L. c. 90, §
19F.
Note 4: Subject to the restrictions
that 700 CMR 7.07(4)(e) and
7.08
impose, a tandem unit may operate on a way without a special permit with
respect to its length, provided that:
1. the overall total number of semi-trailers
or trailers in the tandem unit is no greater than two;
2. each semi-trailer or trailer of the tandem
unit does not exceed 28 feet in length, without regard to the overall length of
the tandem unit; and
3. a tandem
unit with semi-trailers or trailers that do not exceed 281/2 feet in
length, if such semi-trailers or trailers were actually and lawfully operating
on December 1, 1982, as part of tandem units within a 65 foot overall length
limit in any state, may similarly operate on a way without a special permit
with respect to its length.
(b)
Circumstances under Which a
Special Permit Is Required. A motor vehicle, vehicle, or vehicle
combination requires a special permit with respect to its size only when
compliance with the maximum size limitations specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)1.,
2., or 3. is impossible or impractical.
(c)
Type of Special Permit Issued
(Over-size). The Department issues special permits for over-size
vehicles in accordance with the following provisions:
1.
Irreducible Load
Permit. A vehicle requires an irreducible load permit if the
vehicle width exceeds the maximum vehicle width permitted under 700 CMR
7.07(4)(a)1.; the vehicle height exceeds the maximum vehicle height permitted
under 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)2.; or, the vehicle length exceeds the maximum vehicle
length allowed for a vehicle of its type as specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(a)3.
The Department does not issue an irreducible load permit if it
believes that a load can be divided or arranged so as to conform with the
limitations on its width, height, or length. The Department may prohibit an
over-size vehicle from using a way if, in the opinion of the Chief Engineer,
safety or the public convenience warrants the prohibition.
The Department may issue, upon the approval of the Chief
Engineer, an irreducible load permit in accordance with the procedures and
subject to the terms of 700 CMR 7.07(2) and (4)(f).
The applicant must pay the fee that is specified on the permit
application and in 700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 5. This fee is in
addition to the regular toll charge based on the classification of the vehicle
under
700 CMR
7.03(1). In the case of
multiple trips of a single vehicle or a convoy of vehicles, the fee represents
the total fee due up to a maximum number of trips of two or more as determined
by the Chief Engineer, provided that the applicant specifies on the application
referred to in 700 CMR 7.07(2)(a) the number of anticipated multiple trips, the
time period in which they will be completed, and any other information that the
application or the Chief Engineer requires.
2.
Use of the Ted Williams
Tunnel, Including the South Boston Bypass Road. A vehicle that
exceeds any of the applicable maximum dimensions specified in 700 CMR
7.07(4)(a)1., 2., or 3. requires an irreducible load permit for use of the Ted
Williams Tunnel, including the South Boston Bypass Road for construction
equipment. An original annual permit for construction equipment issued by the
Department must be kept in an accessible place in the vehicle for which it was
issued and must be presented to a toll collector, other official or employee of
the Department, or Massachusetts State Police officer on demand. The operator
of the vehicle is responsible for the regular toll charge based on the
classification of the vehicle under
700 CMR
7.03(1).
(d)
Pilot
Car.
1.
When
Required. A pilot car must follow an over-size vehicle if: the
overhang is four or more feet and the load consists of poles, masts, booms, or
similar shapes or if the overhang is ten feet or more; the over-size vehicle is
a drill rig with boom, a shovel, or a crane; the over-size vehicle is
odd-shaped or has an odd-shaped load; or the over-size vehicle is not a tandem
unit or a semi-trailer unit with a semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and
has a length of more than 90 feet up to and including 100 feet or a width of
more than 12 feet up to and including 13'6".
2. When Required - Vehicles Traveling on the
MHS. A pilot car must follow an over-size vehicle traveling on the MHS if: the
overhang is four or more feet and the load consists of poles, masts, booms, or
similar shapes or if the overhang is ten feet or more; the over-size vehicle is
a drill rig with boom, a shovel, or a crane; the over-size vehicle is odd
shaped or has an odd shaped load; or the over-size vehicle is not a tandem unit
or a semi-trailer unit with a semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and has a
length of more than 80 feet and up to and including 95 feet, or a width of more
than 12 feet.
3.
Convoy
Pilot Car. If two or more over-size vehicles are in convoy, one
may be pilot for the other, but a separate pilot car must follow the last
over-size vehicle. MassDOT, in its sole discretion, may allow for convoys.
MassDOT may place any restrictions in the permit it deems necessary for the
safe travel of such vehicles including, but not limited to, time of travel,
dimensional restrictions, and/or escort requirements.
4.
Preceding and Following Pilot
Cars. If an over-size vehicle is not a tandem unit or a
semi-trailer unit with a semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and has a length
of more than 100 feet up to and including 135 feet, or width of more than 13'6"
up to and including 16 feet, it must have pilot cars preceding and following
it.
5.
Preceding and
Following Pilot Cars - Vehicles Traveling on the MHS. If an
over-size vehicle traveling on the MHS is not a tandem unit or a semi-trailer
unit with semi-trailer of not more than 53 feet and has a length of more than
95 feet, or width of more than 13'6" up to and including 16 feet, it must have
pilot cars preceding and following it.
6.
Requirements for a Pilot
Car. A pilot car must be a truck with two axles and four wheels or
a private passenger motor vehicle and must have two flashing amber lights
visible from front and rear; 24 inch by 24 inch red flags on the right and left
rear of the pilot car; and a sign reading: "Oversize Load".
7.
State Police
Escort. In addition to the requirements with respect to a pilot
car as specified in 700 CMR 7.07(4)(d), an over-size vehicle, with its load,
that is wider than 16 feet or longer than 135 feet must be escorted by two
motor vehicles of the Massachusetts State Police. Any vehicle that, in the
opinion of t he Chief Engineer, may be incapable of operating at a minimum
speed such that it may pose a danger to individuals, property, or the safe
operation of a way, may be required to be accompanied by motor vehicles of the
Massachusetts State Police.
8.
Oversize Load Sign. An oversize vehicle that is not
required to be accompanied by a pilot car must have a sign on the rear reading:
"Oversize Load".
(e)
Tandem Units and Certain Saddlemount Combinations Not Permitted in
the Tunnels. Subject to 700 CMR 7.07(3)(c)4., and notwithstanding
any other provision of 700 CMR 7.07 to the contrary, and irrespective of their
length, tandem units, double saddlemount combinations, and triple saddlemount
combinations are not permitted in the Tunnels.
(f)
Height
Indication. No vehicle that has a total height exceeding ten feet,
excluding the height of its load, may be operated on a way unless the
measurement of the total height is painted or printed in letters and numerals
at least four inches high in a conspicuous place upon the side or front of the
vehicle.
(g)
Responsibility of Operator. The operator of an
over-size vehicle is responsible for checking the clearance of the vehicle and
its load through any toll lane or canopy and for checking structures on a way
for available clearance with respect to movements by the oversize vehicle or by
load movements. The operator is subject to the penalty provided in
700 CMR 7.13(3)(a)
for failure to exercise this care. The
Department imposes this penalty in addition to holding the operator liable for
the damage resulting from failure to exercise this care.
(5)
Limitations on the
Transportation of Explosives.
(a)
General
Prohibition. No vehicle carrying explosives may enter or use a way
unless specifically allowed to do so by a provision of 700 CMR 7.07(5) and only
to the extent and upon the conditions so specified. Any specific prohibitions
contained in other subsections of 700 CMR 7.07(5) do not limit the generality
of 700 CMR 7.07(5)(a).
(b)
Operation Prohibited in Tunnels. No vehicle carrying
explosives may enter or use the Tunnels.
(c)
Operation Prohibited on Ways
Other than the Tunnels. No vehicle carrying explosives may enter
or use the Turnpike at or between Interchange 15 in Weston and Interchange 24
in Boston.
(d)
No
Liquid Nitroglycerin. No vehicle carrying liquid nitroglycerin may
enter or use a way.
(e)
Ways upon Which Department May Issue Permit. No
vehicle used to carry explosives may enter and use the Turnpike at or between
Interchange 1 in West Stockbridge and Interchange 14 in Weston unless the
Department has issued for the vehicle a special permit for explosives as
provided in 700 CMR 7.07(5)(f) and the vehicle and its operation fully comply
with those provisions, except that a vehicle carrying no explosives other than
fireworks not in excess of ten pounds, or other than 1,000 blasting caps or
fewer, may enter and use that portion of the Turnpike without obtaining a
special permit for explosives.
(f)
Special Permit for Explosives.
1.
Application. An
owner or operator of a vehicle who has determined to obtain a special permit
for explosives may apply for one in accordance with and subject to the
provisions of 700 CMR 7.07(2). Among other information required by the
application, the applicant shall indicate the number of vehicles to be covered
under the application.
2.
Terms and Conditions. The Department may issue a
special permit for explosives for any 12-month period, together with a separate
certification card for each vehicle enumerated in the permit application, as
evidence that the vehicle is covered by the permit, subject to the following
terms and conditions: a vehicle for which the Department has issued a special
permit for explosives and certification card may make an unlimited number of
trips on a way in accordance with 700 CMR 7.07(5)(e) or a portion of a way as
designated on the permit or certification card; the operator of the vehicle
must carry an original, not a copy, of the certification card in an accessible
place and must display it to an official or employee of the Department, or
Massachusetts State Police officer on demand.
3.
Fees. The
applicant must pay the fee that is specified on the permit application and in
700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 5. The applicant shall also pay the fee
for the first certification card referred to in 700 CMR 7.07(5)(f)2. and an
additional fee for each additional certification card that the Department
issues during the term of the permit. The applicant must submit with its
application full payment for the application fee and for all additional fees
for the number of vehicles specified in the application. All these fees are in
addition to any regular toll charge that the Department assesses in accordance
with
700 CMR 7.03.
4.
Minimum Separation of
Vehicles. No vehicle carrying explosives may operate within 1,000
feet longitudinally of another vehicle carrying explosives or any vehicle
transporting hazardous material as defined in 49 CFR Chapter I, Subchapter
C.
5.
No
Stopping. No vehicle carrying explosives may stop on a way,
including a service or rest area, unless the movement of the vehicle is
obstructed; it is disabled; or the operator of the vehicle is following the
directions or requirements of a Massachusetts State Police officer, a sign, or
governing federal regulations.
6.
Conformance with Law. The equipment, cargo, operator,
and operation of a vehicle operating under a special permit for explosives must
conform with all federal and state laws and regulations governing the
transportation of explosive materials by a motor carrier.
(6)
Limitations on the
Transportation of Special Fuels.
(a)
General
Prohibition. No vehicle used to carry a special fuel, however
propelled and whether or not containing a special fuel, may enter or use a way
unless specifically allowed to do so by a provision of 700 CMR 7.07(6) and only
to the extent and upon the conditions so specified. Any specific prohibitions
contained in other subsections of 700 CMR 7.07(6) do not limit the generality
of 700 CMR 7.07(6)(a).
(b)
Operation Prohibited in Tunnels. No vehicle used to
carry a special fuel, however propelled and whether or not containing a special
fuel, may enter or use the Tunnels.
(c)
Operation Prohibited on Ways
Other than the Tunnels. No vehicle used to carry a special fuel,
however propelled and whether or not containing a special fuel, may enter or
use the Turnpike at or between Interchange 15 in Weston and Interchange 24 in
Boston.
(d)
Ways upon
Which Department May Issue Permit. No vehicle used to carry a
special fuel, however propelled and whether or not containing a special fuel,
may enter and use the Turnpike at or between Interchange 1 in West Stockbridge
and Interchange 14 in Weston, unless the Department has issued for the vehicle
a special fuel transportation permit as provided in 700 CMR 7.07(6)(e) and the
vehicle and its operation fully comply with those provisions.
(e)
Special Fuel Transportation
Permit.
1.
Application. An owner or operator of a vehicle who has
determined to obtain a special fuel transportation permit may apply for one in
accordance with and subject to the provisions of 700 CMR 7.07(2). Among other
information required by the application, the applicant shall indicate the
number of vehicles to be covered under the application.
2.
Terms and
Conditions. The Department may issue a special fuel transportation
permit for any 12 month period for the type of special fuel or fuels the
Department designates on the permit application, together with a separate
certification card for each vehicle enumerated in the permit application, as
evidence that the vehicle is covered by the permit, subject to the following
terms and conditions: a vehicle for which the Department has issued a special
fuel transportation permit and certification card may make an unlimited number
of trips on a way in accordance with 700 CMR 7.07(6)(d) or a portion of a way
as designated on the permit or certification card; the operator of the vehicle
must carry an original, not a copy, of the certification card in an accessible
place and must display it to an official or employee of the Department, or
Massachusetts State Police officer on demand; and a vehicle for which the
Department has issued such a permit must conspicuously display, both before and
after, signs with letters not less than six inches in height bearing
appropriate words identifying the cargo, and, if empty, the cargo last
carried.
3.
Fees. The applicant must pay the fee that is specified
on the permit application and in 700 CMR 7.07(3): Table 5. The
applicant must submit with its application full payment for the application fee
and for all additional fees for the number of vehicles specified in the
application. All these fees are in addition to any regular toll charge that the
Department assesses in accordance with
700 CMR 7.03.
4.
Minimum Separation of
Vehicles. No vehicle used to carry a special fuel, however
propelled and whether or not containing a special fuel, may operate within
1,000 feet longitudinally of another vehicle carrying a special fuel.
5.
No Stopping. No
vehicle used to carry a special fuel, however propelled and whether or not
containing a special fuel, may stop on a way, including a service or rest area,
unless the movement of the vehicle is obstructed; it is disabled; or the
operator of the vehicle is following the directions or requirements of a
Massachusetts State Police officer, a sign, or governing federal
regulations.
6.
Conformance with Law. The equipment, cargo, operator,
and operation of a vehicle operating under a special fuel transportation permit
must conform with all federal and state laws and regulations governing the
transportation of special fuels by a motor carrier.
