Abnormal loads procedure

Abnormal loads using Perth and Kinross Council roads network

Regulations for Abnormal Loads

The road layout and structure in most areas of the road network has been designed to cater for a maximum size and weight of vehicle. The normal size and weight limits are contained in the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment No.7) Regulations 1998 and The Road Vehicles (Authorised Weight) Regulations 1998 and it is unlawful to exceed these.

However, some loads are very large or heavy and cannot reasonably be divided up in either size or weight for the purposes of transport. These loads have to be transported on special vehicles, which are larger and heavier than normal lorries.

When loads do not comply with the above regulations, the following advance notification procedures apply:

Dimensions within 'Construction and Use Regulations'
Laden dimensions not exceeding:

• 2.9m (9' 6") overall width or
• 18.3m (60' 0") overall length or
• 44,000kgs (44t) gross weight

No requirement for notice to Police or for notice with indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities.  Authorisation from the Secretary of State is not required for the movement of loads with laden dimensions as above.

Dimensions within 'Special Types General Order'
Laden dimensions in excess of 'Construction & Use Regulations' but not exceeding:

• 6.1m (20' 0") overall width^* - 2 clear days notice to Police
• 30.00m (98' 6") rigid length - 2 clear days notice to Police
• 80,000kgs (80t) gross weight - 2 clear days notice with signed indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities
• Over 80,000kgs (80t) but not exceeding 150,000kgs (150t) gross weight - 5 clear days notice with signed indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities and 2 clear days notice to Police

* - Secretary of State 'VR1' authorisation is required for the movement of loads with an overall width in excess of 5.0m (16' 5") but not exceeding 6.1m (20' 0").

Dimensions requiring a Special Order
Laden dimensions exceeding:

• 6.1m (20' 0") overall width - 5 clear days notice to Police
• 30.00m (98' 6") rigid length - 5 clear days notice to Police
• 150,000kgs (150t) gross weight and/or 16,500kgs (16.5t) per axle - 5 clear days notice with signed indemnity to Highway and Bridge Authorities and 5 clear days notice to Police

Secretary of State 'Special Order' authorisation is required for the movement of loads with the laden dimensions as above.

Notes:

1. The normal procedure is to email the notification and signed indemnity to abnormalloads@pkc.gov.uk
2. 'Clear days notice' excludes weekends and public holidays

Your attention is drawn to the fact that until a response to notification is issued by Perth and Kinross Council no authorisation is conferred.

Should no response be issued within the timescales referred to above, it remains the position that no permission to move abnormal loads has been given and to do so constitutes an offence.