Updated 4/7/20, 7:00 p.m.

Government agencies, including US state and Canadian province permit offices, have some changes to their day-to-day operations and permit issuance plans during the COVID-19 outbreak. Oversize Permit Issuance During COVID-19 Agencies are staying in direct contact with transportation companies, permit agencies and organizations such as the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association (SCRA) to keep everyone informed. Here is what we know thus far.

At this time there is no change to ordinary operating procedures. If the Director decides tomorrow to let people work from home we should see no changes in the day to day operations as we can forward all calls and since our system is web-based we can continue to issue permits in a timely manner.

If at any time this changes I will let you know as soon as possible.

Alaska is preparing the permits office for limited telecommuting. The permits office will operate as normal and through telecommuting for phone, email, and fax requests.

Business as usual in Arizona. If anything changes we’re ready to go remote and permits will still be available.

1. If ADOT employees are required to telecommute; remote access has already been set up for employees to access their email and computer drives. ADOT EPRO is web based, our employees can issue permits from anywhere, and will continue to do so during normal business hours.

2. There will be no change to how permits are issued online. If offices are required to be closed, they will only be closed on command of the Director/Governor. At that time, walk up permits would not be available; online services would still be available for auto issued and permits that require ADOT review prior to issuing.

3. No news at this time to share and no change in operations or communication at this time. If we close Ports or walk up offices, the information would be available at www.azdot.gov and by clicking the Commercial Permits button on the same page, which brings you to EPRO; where information would also be posted.

Business is as usual but they have sent home 3 agents to test working remotely. There should be no changes in the services provided by the permit office.

Effective 3/19/20 CA remains open for all oversized permits. Staff is practicing social distancing and has move a portion of the staff home where they will continue assisting office staff in Permit issuance. 

3/19/2020: IMPORTANT CHANGE EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: Due to the recent Presidential Declaration of Emergency, Colorado may now issue Emergency Response Overweight Divisible Single Trip permits for vehicles hauling divisible loads providing relief supplies to affected areas. This permit allows up to 97,000 pounds GVW hauling essential emergency goods (i.e. groceries, medical supplies, etc.) and will be valid through 3/31/2020 subject to change upon notification. Travel will be allowed on both secondary highways and the interstate but will be routed according to bridge weight limits and construction restrictions. Loads must meet all legal size dimensions as well. For information regarding legal dimensions in Colorado please visit the following link: https://www.codot.gov/business/permits/truckpermits/documents/lcvfyis.pdf/view

There have been no disruptions to OS/OW permitting in CT.  We are discussing plans to allow staff to telework and continue to issue permits.  If all staff end up teleworking, we may not be able to answer calls, so inbound communication to the office will be via email to our office inbox.  Any updates or changes will be posted on our CT-Connect bulletin.

A waiver has been issued for the movement of divisible relief supplies up to 100K pounds. Overweight deliveries within Delaware must be providing direct emergency relief as part of the COVID-19 efforts. This waiver will not authorize movement on Federal highways. Please see Load Code 22 to obtain the State of Delaware, Relief Supplies Emergency Permit, for operation on federally maintained highways. Delaware-emergency-Permit-Guide.pdf
 

Florida’s operations are business as usual at this time however, we have issued an Emergency Road Use Permit Letter to relax the size and weight requirements for vehicles transporting emergency response equipment and supplies (all of the information is posted on our website at https://www.fdot.gov/maintenance/owodpermits.shtm). The Office of Maintenance and the Permit Office are currently in the process of developing a plan in the event that there are office closures. If there are office closures, we anticipate that we would temporarily suspend our walk-in customer services, staff would have the resources needed to work remotely and self-permit issuance/auto-issuance would not be affected.

Beginning Monday, March 23 GAPROS Office will be closed until further notice We will be working from home and have limited phone access, if you need to order a permit please e-mail (gapermits@promiles.com) do not send with CC information, or FAX (575-353-7732)

We will be live on Chat to answer any questions you may have. As always you can self-issue your permits.  There is no one to post escrow payments from this week until April 3, 2020.  The state has been shut down since Monday, March 16,2020. All permit requests and payments should be made as usual through the GAPROS system (https://gapros.dot.ga.gov/) on-line or by phone (844-837-5500). All processing of permits will be completed, remembering over 80% are auto issued. The remaining will be processed by the permit staff as usual who are working remotely. Please let me know if you have any questions.

No information available at this time.

Due to the current health situation, the permit unit will have a limited number of staff answering the phones as of Monday 23, 2020. Please use the permit website to order and pay for your permits. You can also communicate with the permit staff by using the Chat or callback functions on the website. Another means of contacting the permit unit is emailing all questions or requests topermits@itd.idaho.gov

Please be advised. The Illinois State Police will be available to escort permit loads beginning Tuesday 4/7/2020. If your permit requires ISP, the contact information will be on the issued permit. As a reminder, ISP requires 24 hour advance notice to schedule the escorts. Thank you for your patience and understanding, The Illinois Permit Office.
Upon request and availability by district, IDOT replacing Illinois State Police escort with 2 additional private escorts (5 max) and or local law enforcement.

 

Due to emergency response needs, ISP will not be available for ISP escorts.  Emergency supply needs will be evaluated on a case by case basis. 

The Illinois Department of Transportation Permit staff will be responding to all functions remotely.  If you have questions please e-maildot.permitoffice@illinois.gov or call 217-785-1477 extension 1 for information regarding OSOW permits or ITAP logons or extension 2 for information regarding financial accounts or payments.

You can also contact the permit office at dot.permitoffice@Illinois.gov .See attachments below:
Order-for-IDOT-Permits-March-2020.pdf
Waiver-COVID19-March162020.pdf

 

Effective 3/31, and in support of Governor Eric Holcomb’s Executive Order 20-02 declaring a public health disaster emergency in Indiana due to COVID-19, Indiana Department of Revenue (DOR) Commissioner Bob Grennes has waived several Motor Carrier Services (MCS) requirements until May 22, 2020.

The waivers affect:

    • Out-of-state motor carriers who are delivering COVID-19 supplies do not need to obtain trip permits or register with the International Registration Plan (IRP) or the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) before entering Indiana. Upon request, drivers must be able to prove they are hauling food, goods, medical supplies, other equipment and supplies to address the public health threat posed by COVID-19. This waiver will expire on May 22, 2020.
    • IRP or Base Plate registrations (BPR) expiring on March 31, 2020, or April 30, 2020, will not expire until May 31, 2020. Also, an Indiana-based IRP or BPR registrant may delay a registration renewal and/or payment for registrations effective May 1, 2020, until May 31, 2020.
    • Any delayed IRP renewal registrations and/or payments must have an effective renewed IRP registration submitted to DOR byJune 1, 2020.
    • Indiana-based IFTA licensees that file quarterly motor carrier fuel tax returns may delay the first quarter’s return (ordinarily due April 30, 2020) to May 31, 2020. Also, following IFTA’s recommendation, DOR waives the requirements to display or possess IFTA credentials until May 22, 2020.

Full details are available here or on DOR’s Motor Carrier Services webpage,

Although DOR in-person customer service is currently suspended due to the COVID-19 health emergency, our MCS customer service team continues to provide support by phone and email, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., EST.

To find contact information for specific MCS sections, refer to the contact information listed online

 

Right now things are business as usual in Iowa. If we have to close our offices or reduce hours of service to the public, we have employees with laptops who can issue permits at home if necessary. Our permit system is web-based and accessible remotely. 100% of OS/OW permit transactions can be completed electronically at https://iowa.gotpermits.com

Beginning Monday, March 23rd, The permitting office will be completing all work remotely for at least two weeks.  www-k-trips.com will still be available 24/7 to apply for all permits.  Because staff will be working from home, call-ins will not be available, however, live chat with the Central Permitting Office and notes within the permit applications are options for assistance.

If state offices are closed, K-TRIPS will have a note placed on the dashboard stating such, but that we will also be reviewing permits while closed. There is a chat option available through K-TRIPS for assistance if no one is working from the office. Currently, we do not see a change needed from industry other than patience as our staff will be reduced significantly if we are required to stay home from work. However, the essential staff will work diligently to complete permit requests.

Effective at 5pm (EST) Tuesday, March 17, the Kentucky Governor has mandated all state offices closed to walk-in customers until further notice.

Kentucky Emergency Declaration 90 Day Extension of Operator’s Licenses Expiration Dates and Registration Deadlines The Cabinet Secretary (as well as the Feds) have issued emergency declarations which are posted to our website (drive.ky.gov).  There are exemptions for OW/OD loads only if they are hauling for relief efforts and if doing so, they are required to have a copy of the declaration in the vehicle with them.  Kentucky’s permits (trip and annual) are all available on line, as are the bulk of our services. We are recommending that individuals utilize our on-line services and reframe from coming into our One Stop  Shop. You’ll always find any executive orders regarding our customer base, posted to our website (drive.ky.gov).  The permit exemption only applies to those providing relief efforts.  We don’t foresee this applying to any OW/OD carriers.  Basically, supplies are not something that would ever require an OW/OD permit anyway.  If they are participating in the relief efforts, they are required to carry a copy of the executive order in the vehicle with them.  It doesn’t exempt them from axle restrictions on divisible loads.  Basically it’s for hours of service, IRP registration and having to stop in a weigh station for anyone involved in the movement of relief efforts.

 
Due to CoVid-19, non-state employees will not be allowed to enter the Truck Permit Office.  Permits must be obtained on-line via the website or by phone. We appreciate your understanding.

The Permit Office is currently closed effective 3/17/2020 until further notice to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.  Most permit requests and payments can be made as usual online through MoveME (https://www.movememaine.com/).  About 80% of our permits are self-issue permits that do not need any staff intervention.  Online requests that need staff intervention will be fielded by a couple of us that are trying to work from home.

POLICE ESCORTS-Per authority granted by the COVID-19 Executive Order on motor carrier transportation:

Effective immediately the weight requirement for a law enforcement escort will be for loads exceeding 200K pounds.  Width at 16 feet and height at 16 feet will remain in place for now.

BALTIMORE CITY – also exceeding 200k pounds, HEIGHT-leaving the PORT of Baltimore will remain at => 15’H and coming into the PORT with 14’-6” in height will remain in effect for Police escorts required from Baltimore City .

This is to compensate for an anticipated reduced availability of personnel to accompany these loads.  Private escort requirements will remain the same and be reevaluated as necessary.  Loads requiring special maneuvering or otherwise determined by the hauling permit unit that law enforcement is necessary for safety will likewise remain in effect.

Executive Order – COVID-19 RELIEF- Vehicle Weight Limit Tolerance – Maryland is providing an across the board 15% tolerance to any statutory weight limit for non-divisible loads of relief supplies and equipment.  Divisible load haulers who anticipate exceeding the 15% tolerance must obtain an Emergency Permit through our Maryland One hauling permit system for safety and route analysis.  These measures are applicable statewide on all roadways.   Contact with local authorities regarding restricted roadways under their jurisdiction is likewise required.  Haulers of non-divisible loads shall continue to obtain standard hauling permits as normally required. Any questions or if assistance is needed please email us at  haulingpermits@mdot.maryland.gov

                BALTIMORE CITY – They can call 443-984-2150 and our clerk will take a message. We encourage email.

Check our website and Announcements for any updates.

Due to Presidential/Emergency Declarations for div loads we are drafting language to allow 15%

EFFECTIVE MARCH 16, 2020, MASSDOT PERMIT OFFICE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTING WALK-IN CUSTOMERS. Due to precautionary measures related to the COVID-19, the MassDOT Permit Office will not be accepting walk-in customers. For the safety of the public and MassDOT employees, all transactions will be conducted online or by USPS sent to 668 South Avenue, Weston, MA 02493. If more information is required, please call the MassDOT Permit Office at 781-431-5148. Thank you for your understanding and patience going forward in the foreseeable future.

Effective March 18, MDOT will not accept cash transactions for eastbound Blue Water Bridge customers (March 17, 2020)  In accordance with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ recommendations designed to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will not be accepting cash payment for private passenger vehicles using the eastbound Blue Water Bridge (BWB) to Canada. All commercial traffic is being asked to pay by prepaid commuter account cards or debit/credit forms of payment. We encourage any commercial travelers who wish to apply for the prepaid commercial account to visit www.federalbridge.ca and complete the application. The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL) announced as of 12 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, cash transactions will be suspended at their westbound BWB crossing until further notice for all privately owned vehicles. In accordance with their decision, MDOT’s BWB is also encouraging the use of only credit/debit card transactions. Reducing person-to-person contact by moving to cashless transactions will help to reduce the amount of exposure to contagion, as well as reduce contact back to customers if change is being provided. The state is taking proactive steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in reducing the coronavirus risk. For current and up-to-date information regarding the coronavirus, visit https://www.Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or https://www.CDC.gov/Coronavirus. BWB COVID-19 Safety Measures FAQ.docx

 

  • The majority of our permit staff already telecommute and all of them are equipped to at a moment’s notice. There will be no changes in policy or procedures for industry.
  • Will advise of any additional changes.
Emergency Executive Order provides relief to motor carriers and drivers responding to COVID-19 emergency relief efforts Governor Walz signed Emergency Executive Order 20-06, providing exemptions from certain weight limits (including spring load restrictions) and the hours of service requirements for vehicles and drivers that are transporting essential supplies in response to the COVID-19 emergency relief efforts. A permit is not needed for vehicles operating under this emergency order, but there are specific weight limitations that still apply. Please see the order for full details. Office Operations during COVD-19 The MnDOT Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations (OFCVO) plans to continue providing front counter service to our customers at this time. The health and safety of our customers, the public and our employees is our top priority. We are asking that visitors who may be ill not enter our building. For now, we encourage you to consider conducting your business with us in a manner that does not require a physical visit to our office by mail, fax or online as much as possible.
 
The following transactions can be done either online, by email or fax:
•    Operating authority application for Property Carriers – Since no fee is involved, the applications can be submitted via fax to 651-366-3718 or emailed to CredentialsUnit.DOT@state.mn.us.
•    STS initial and renewal applications where no vehicle registration is being done – applications can be submitted via fax to 651-366-3718 or emailed to CredentialsUnit.DOT@state.mn.us.
•    Insurance filing – required insurance filings can be submitted via fax to 651-366-3718 or emailed to CredentialsUnit.DOT@state.mn.us. Your insurance company can also make an electronic filing via MCInfo (the NOR system – National Online Registry).
•    Oversize/Overweight Permits – permits can be obtained through our online app at https://osowpermits.dot.state.mn.us/rbnet/ During this fast-changing situation we encourage you to visit our website for updated information. OFCVO is working hard to ensure uninterrupted operations during this challenging time. Your patience and understanding is appreciated.
 
For general questions, email motorcarrier.dot@state.mn.us or call 651-215-6330. For questions regarding oversize/overweight permits, email ofcvopermits.dot@state.mn.us or call 651-296-6000. Currently business as usual.  If permit techs begin working remotely the following conditions are in place:

 

  • All permit techs have laptops and can process applications remotely.
  • Online system is available 24-7. https://www.dot.state.mn.us/cvo/oversize/index.html .  Now more than ever, we encourage customers to apply online.
  • Techs can grab the applications from the website queue; and can contact the customer if/when additional info is needed.
  • Techs will no longer have access to any incoming faxes. Any documents currently being faxed, we ask that customers scan the documents and email them to ofcvopermits.dot@state.mn.us
  • If customers have difficulty with the online system (getting in or navigating the system) customers can call 651-296-6000 (if there are issues calling in, customers can email ofcvopermits.dot@state.mn.us)
  • Minnesota will provide updates on the OSOW website as we work through this crisis.
  • Minnesota will send blast emails. Customers can sign up for email updates at: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNDOT/subscriber/new
  • Minnesota will post messages on its Twitter feed (https://twitter.com/mndotoversize)

With guidance from state health officials about protecting the health and well-being of Minnesotans and preventing further spread of COVID-19, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will indefinitely postpone all meetings, training and events, effective immediately. This includes all oversize/overweight training classes originally scheduled for March and April.

We will be doing business as usual for now, but may switch to working with a short staff. Approximately 82% of permits are self-issued, so we encourage the industry to continue using the Expresspass on line permitting system as much as possible. We will have some staff working from home, but we would ask that the industry have patience with the State permit offices as I’m sure we will all do our best to serve the industry as quickly as we can.

MoDOT Increases Weight Allowance and Provides IRP/IFTA Emergency Waiver  for Trucks to Support COVID-19 Response

In response to Gov. Mike Parson’s Executive Order 20-02 declaring a state of emergency in Missouri, the Missouri Department of Transportation is allowing for heavier-than-normal truckloads of supplies and equipment to travel on Missouri highways in the direct effort to prevent, contain, mitigate and treat the effects of the COVID-19 virus. This includes shipments of livestock and poultry. MoDOT is also temporarily suspending all Missouri International Registration Plan and International Fuel Tax Agreement trip and fuel permit requirements, including fees, for vehicles not currently registered for interstate travel in Missouri during the declared COVID-19 emergency. A copy of the Trip and Fuel waiver document, available at www.modot.org/mcs must be retained in each vehicle operating under this waiver and retained with the records kept by the driver for audit purposes. An electronic copy will suffice for road purposes while in Missouri. Weight Allowance Under the weight allowance, private and for-hire motor carriers are allowed to haul up to 100,000 pounds as long as their trailers are at least 53-feet long. The allowance remains in effect through April 30. Here are other provisions of the allowance:

  • Motor carriers are limited to transporting supplies and equipment, including livestock and poultry, only within the state of Missouri;
  • Drivers must obey posted bridge weight limits;
  • When crossing a bridge, drivers must restrict the vehicle speed to no more than 30 mph;
  • Travel under this allowance is only allowed on non-interstate highways. Those taking advantage of the weight allowance cannot operate on any portion of the interstate highway system.

Emergency Waiver for IRP and IFTA

The IRP and IFTA waiver shall not be construed to allow any vehicle to operate in Missouri without valid registration and insurance from its base state. Motor carriers or drivers currently subject to a state or federal out-of-service order are not eligible for the relief granted by this notice. This waiver does not imply or grant an exception to any federal laws administered by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation or other state laws regarding the reporting, registration or operation of commercial motor vehicles. This waiver shall remain in effect for the duration of the declared emergency under Missouri Executive Order 20-02. In addition to the above notices, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued an emergency declaration that grants an exemption from Parts 390 through 399 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for drivers and carriers operating in response to the national emergency. It can be found at: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency/emergency-declaration-under-49-cfr-ss-39023-no-2020-002. Find links to this and other important emergency transport documents at www.modot.org/mcs.

Montana is business as usual. I will provide updates if changes occur.
Currently, we do not have plans to close our facility and are operating as normal.  If anything changes, a post will be added to the log-in page of our web site indicating changes.  I will also email you, Steve.  The permit office has 2 laptops that can be operated remotely for issuing permits.  Steps are being taken so these computers are able to access the email accounts that receive New Profile Requests, Route Surveys, etc.  Customers should experience little change in the delivery of ‘typical’ permits.  Getting route approvals (loads over 16’ wide), bridge approvals (dual lane loads) or arranging State Patrol escort will be more time consuming than normal.   We will NOT be able to take credit card payments over the phone.  This is not something that can be changed.  Any permits or amendments needed will HAVE to be paid on-line.  Amendments – the customer can pay on-line changes to truck, trailer information and route in the middle of the route. (Except for Conditional Interstate Permits – these can’t be amended)  Normally, other changes (axle weights, spacings, entry into/exit from Nebraska) have to be done over the phone and payment collected through our ‘swipe’ machines.  Unfortunately, we do not have the capability to operate the swipe machines remotely.  So if an amendment needs to be done that would normally be done over the phone, the customer will have to apply/pay for a new permit with the correct information.

Starting March 20th, we will be working remotely from home. We just ask for patience as it does take a little longer to process permits when using a laptop. We are having our phones forwarded to cell phones and people can also email us with questions. All permits need to be submitted using our online system.

If need be, our permit office staff will work from home. In that case, all communications will be via email.

Any questions today,  please call the  permit office at 603-271-2691.

No information available at this time.

NM  plans on business as usual. We are deemed essential personnel. If changes do occur, notification will be sent and can also be found on our website.

 

Governor Cuomo has directed that all non-essential State employees not report to work for the next two weeks.  The Department has been preparing for this, and permit office staff are able to work from home.  There is limited staffing in the Central Permit Office.  As a result there may be delays in returning phone calls.  We encourage customers to email the permit office at permits@dot.ny.gov or use the Callback feature in the HOOCS system.  We suspect there will be some permit delays as we transition to this new environment.

If you have a Covid-19 related emergency move, we will allow application submissions outside of the normal submission schedule. Applications will be processed as they are received and will still require engineering review from multiple agencies. The permits will be route specific and allow travel for a period of 23:59 hrs any 1 day of the week (7 days Monday- Sunday). For example, we will allow you to travel 6am Monday-5:59am Tuesday.

  • Please submit the application with the load description/make and model and COVID-19 response in the load description box.
  • Load must be over-dimensional and non-divisible / route surveys will still be required.
  • You must also send an email to all of our staff with “App #_Response for COVID -19 Emergency” in the subject area and attach any supporting documents if possible.

Pay extra attention to what you submit and that the application matches the route survey. We need correct start and end points within NYC borders, load description (make and model #) street names, and correct date and times of travel. We will not be as lenient as we are in the office. 2 rejections and that is it. NO EXCEPTIONS!! Please be as responsive as you can to our emails, as this will be the primary means of communication.

Due to some North Carolina counties issuing non-travel restrictions within their jurisdiction, it may be necessary for Oversize/Overweight permittees to obtain approval from the county before entry.  The permittee is responsible for checking the local county or municipality website for any restrictions prior to traveling through their limits.

When asked for clarification, NC DOT officials reported, “Our state law gives the locals a lot of authority when it comes to emergencies.  None of these (local actions) have much impact on commerce as of yet.  It is our intent to inform the permit holder to double check their route and destination.  The NCDOT is recommending that these communities do not close their roads.  In fact some roads we believe their authority is superseded by other state and federal laws.  So far the only key routes that potentially could affect some on is US 64 going to the outer banks.  They are allowing commercial traffic that has a purpose, and I expect that a permitted load going there would have a purpose.  The other communities have been small road that your members would not want to drive a truck on.”

Also see related articles – https://www.darenc.com/departments/emergency-management/entry
news article

Currently there are only a few counties and municipalities that have restricted travel to non-residents and this has not had any impact on commercial trucks.  Interstate routes and US Highways are not affected.   The message was placed on the website and on permits for the carriers to do their due diligence on travel in the early stages of the county restrictions.  NCDOT’s Traffic Information site can help with determining locations where there may be restricted travel.  https://www.drivenc.gov/  

North Dakota Governor Issues Executive Order on Coronavirus (03/25/2020)

The permit office will be closed to walk in customers until further notice.  All permits are available on line.  You can contact the permit office via phone @ 701-328-2621 from 7:10 am – 4:50 pm CST, M-F.  The permit office email is ndhppermits@nd.gov 

In an effort to assist in the state’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Ohio Department of Transportation has approved a special blanket permit for haulers carrying heavy or oversized loads of food, non-alcoholic beverages, medical supplies, cleaning products, and other household goods.
 
The blanket permit applies to travel on roads and bridges maintained by the Ohio Department of Transportation (Interstate, U.S. and State Routes. Hauler loads may not exceed a maximum of 90,000 pounds gross vehicle weight and must comply with all posted bridge weight and height restrictions. Loads exceeding 90,000 pounds gross vehicle weight MUST contact the ODOT Special Hauling Permits main office line at 614-351-2300 during normal business hours (7:30am-4:30pm Monday through Friday).

Ohio has sent multiple agents home to work remotely while the rest remain in the office. Permits are being processed as usual and all phone lines are still being answered accordingly.

Due to the current situation, until further notice, all offices of Size & Weight Permits will be unable to take walk-in customers.  Please call 405-425-7012 or use OKIEpros for all your permit needs.
 
Faxed documentation will be checked once daily.  Please consider using swpermits@dps.ok.gov as your place to send documentation so that your permit paperwork will not be delayed.  We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience.
At this time, it is business as usual in Oregon.  The Oregon Health Authority is posting regular updates on their website, which is linked from our site:

PA Turnpike: Overweight, Overdimensional Special Hauling Permit Applicants – Policy Changes Based on COVID-19 Travel Guidance

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the PA Turnpike is taking all possible precautions to protect the health of our customers and our employees. Please be advised that cash and credit cards will not be accepted anywhere on the PA Turnpike’s ticket system. All tolls will be assessed electronically via E-ZPass or the PA Turnpike TOLL BY PLATE program as vehicles travel at posted speed limits through tolling points. The PA Turnpike advises that all those with special hauling permits for overweight/overdimensional vehicles (Class 9) will still be able to travel the PA Turnpike. However, they must follow modified procedures during the temporary all-electronic tolling period. Temporary Procedures:

  • All customers in this category must print and carry a hard copy of the approved permit.
  • Tolling personnel at designated interchanges will still be available to assist with the appropriate lane assignments.
  • Tolls will be assessed electronically as customers travel during this time.
  • Tolls will be charged to your E-ZPass account; if you do not have E-ZPass, an invoice will be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle through the PA Turnpike TOLL BY PLATE system.
  • All customers must apply for a permit within two weeks of the anticipated travel day.

Read the full press release here.

Truck parking clarification Every decision made has been in the interest of mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and we are constantly reevaluating our response. That said, we also recognize that drivers need and deserve access to rest areas. In order to address safety concerns raised, PennDOT has identified 13 of its 30 rest areas that are most utilized by truckers that will be available again by tomorrow. At these locations, PennDOT will be taking down the barricades on some facilities in critical locations and making them available for truck parking. Portable restroom facilities will be available at these locations; each location will have five portable toilets (one of which is ADA-accessible) that will be cleaned once a day. Electronic message signs will be used near the applicable centers to notify drivers near the opened areas. In order to prevent further spread of COVID-19, we will not be opening any of the indoor facilities because there is no staff to keep them clean and properly sanitized. We will continue to evaluate and will determine whether additional rest areas can be reopened. These are the locations:

  • I-81: Luzerne NB/SB, Cumberland NB/SB;
  • I-80, Venango EB/WB, Centre EB/WB, Montour EB/WB
  • I-79: Crawford NB/SB, Allegheny NB only

Our staff at RIDOT for OSOW permitting may be working remotely from home in the near future however we have all the resources available to issue permits as efficiently as ever from home or in the office. There will be no delay in OSOW permitting due to the current situation. There are no special measures going into effect.

South Carolina is operating as normal at this time.  We are prepared to have staff telecommute if needed.

At this point permit services are functioning at 100% and we plan to keep it that way.

Our office will be working remotely effective Thursday 3/19/20.  Most permit requests and payments can be made as usual online through TNTRIPS.  Since about 80% of our permits are self-issue permits that do not need any staff intervention, we do not anticipate any major delays with permit issuance.  We will have some staff here that will handle checks and get them to the bank and posted to accounts as soon as possible.  We will be posting alternative payment methods for escrow accounts by tomorrow.

As always and even more now than ever we ask that customers utilize our Permit email box, tdot.permitoffice@tn.gov , so that staff can quickly and efficiently work to resolve issues. Texas

  • The majority of our staff are already working offsite and we are working to get the rest offsite in the upcoming days.
  • The only noticeable difference would be we will not accept fax or mail applications or documents, they will need to be transmitted electronically (most companies already do this and upload documents directly into our permitting system).
  • The details of how we will deal with fax and mail documents is still in flux.
  • With the exceptions regarding fax or mail documents there should be no noticeable change in service.
 

Governor Abbott, DPS Waive Expiration Dates for Driver Licenses AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced today that he has directed the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to temporarily waive expiration dates for Driver Licenses, Commercial Driver Licenses, and other identification forms. This action falls within the Governor’s State of Disaster Declaration and is part of the ongoing effort to reduce to spread of COVID-19.

“Our top priority remains public health and safety, and we will continue to take action to ensure that Texans can avoid large public gatherings,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas is at a pivotal moment in the response to COVID-19, and by temporarily delaying Driver License renewals we will help limit non-essential trips into public settings and slow the spread of this virus.” This suspension will be in effect until 60 days after the DPS provides further public notice that normal Driver License operations have resumed.

Texas

  • The majority of our staff are already working offsite and we are working to get the rest offsite in the upcoming days. 
  • The only noticeable difference would be we will not accept fax or mail applications or documents, they will need to be transmitted electronically (most companies already do this and upload documents directly into our permitting system).
  • The details of how we will deal with fax and mail documents is still in flux.
  • With the exceptions regarding fax or mail documents there should be no noticeable change in service.
As part of UDOT’s response to COVID-19, only electronic payments will be accepted at Utah’s Ports of Entry until further notice. UDOT Motor Carrier’s permitting system will be going down on Friday, March 27, 2020 at 6 PM while updates are installed. This process is expected to last 1 hour, but may be longer. Thank You.
 
 
Vermont is business as usual unless state closes and updates will be given at that point.

2020 OS/OW Permit Alerts

Our work center is operating with full staff. However, like many other places, we are teleworking as much as possible. Our plan is to have at least 3 people in the office at all times answering phones and everyone else will be teleworking, issuing permits as usual from home. This being said, we do ask the industry to exercise patience as we transition. We also encourage everyone to submit their applications online, as “in-house” staff is limited and answering phones and processing faxed requests may take a bit longer. In lieu of faxing we suggest that documentation be emailed to our mailbox at haulingpermit@dmv.virginia.gov. This mailbox will be monitored constantly. This practice is expected to be in place until at least April 3rd.

Business as usual in Washington.   Our permit staff is working remotely and we have the ability to provide the same level of service.  We will let you know if anything changes.

The state of West Virginia has directed most non-essential staff to telework in all instances possible, therefore all oversize/overweight permits will be issued remotely. This should not cause any delays in the usual processing times, however there will be delays for calls. Customers are asked to contact the permit technician via email at the following addresses.

Lee      Lee.d.jarrett@wv.gov Brett   brett.h.foster@wv.gov Jack     jack.w.garrison@wv.gov Any calls should be directed to (304) 767-5526.

WI has issued an emergency permit specific to grocery commodities that allows a 10% gross/axle weight increase over legal weight within WI. This is a no fee permit. This will expire 3/28 unless extended by the Governor. This is also a fleet issued permit and not VIN specific.

At the direction of Governor Evers, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation may issue permits for the transportation of inventory to supply grocery retailers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 Relief Effort Supply Permits allow for additional supplies to be efficiently transported over Wisconsin interstates and most highways and local roadways by increasing weight limits and waiving truck driver hours of service limitations. Overweight permits may be issued by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and fees shall be waived for the transportation of inventory to supply grocery retailers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic on Wisconsin highways. “Wisconsin highways” includes the National Defense Highway System pursuant to 23 USC 127(i). The permits do not apply to class II highways, posted bridges, and local highways with special and seasonal weight limit postings. Class II highways are judged to have unstable conditions of the roadway subgrade and constitute only 12% of state highways.  Additional information can be found at: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/com-drv-vehs/mtr-car-trkr/ssnl-wt-rsrctns/default.aspx

 
Permits issued by WisDOT authorize the operation of any vehicle combination at a maximum gross weight up to of 88,000 pounds. A permit may only authorize weights not more than 10 percent greater than the gross axle, gross axle combination, or gross vehicle weight limitations under Wis. Stat. §§ 348.15 and 348.16. Interstate and intrastate carriers providing direct emergency relief to supply grocery retailers are relieved from the requirements contained in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Title 49 C.F.R. Parts 390-399 and Wis. Admin. Code TRANS 325 and 327, subject to the restrictions and limitations described under 49 C.F.R. § 390.23. The relief under this paragraph is valid for the duration of the motor carrier’s assistance in the relief effort or until April 11, 2020 (30 days after Executive Order #72) or the duration of Executive Order #72, whichever is less. COVID-19 Relief Effort Supply Permits authorize the wavier of fees required by Wis. Stats. §§ 341.405, 341.41(7), and 341.45 to obtain a 72-hour trip permit for vehicles traveling into Wisconsin that are not registered in Wisconsin nor enrolled in the International Registration Plan (IRP) or the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA). Except as provided in this order, all other applicable state and federal laws remain in full force and effect. The Secretary of the Department of Transportation may suspend, alter, or amend the permit as necessary. Except as specifically provided otherwise, permits expire on March 28, 2020. Instructions to apply for COVID-19 Relief Effort Supply Permit COVID-19 Permit Information and Application Instructions For more information, go to: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/com-drv-vehs/mtr-car-trkr/osowgeneral.aspx
 
Email the below information to: oversize-permits.dmv@dot.wi.gov or Fax to (608) 264-7751 Attn: COVID-19
  • WI Oversize permits account #:
  • US DOT #:
  • Company name:
  • Address/City/State/Zip code:
  • Phone number:
  • Email address:
  • Contact person:
  • Number of units:

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

Bureau of Highway Maintenance

P.O. Box 7980
Madison WI 53707-7980
 
 
Requesting carriers fax applications to ports and pay for ahead…limiting the “in person” time for drivers entering Ports of Entry.  Driver should call within 4 hours for further direction referencing the permit.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a national emergency declaration to provide hours-of-service regulatory relief to commercial vehicle drivers transporting emergency relief in response to the nationwide coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. This declaration is the first time FMCSA has issued nation-wide relief and follows President Trump issuing of a national emergency declaration in response to the virus.

“Because of the decisive leadership of President Trump and Secretary Chao, this declaration will help America’s commercial drivers get these critical goods to impacted areas faster and more efficiently. FMCSA is continuing to closely monitor the coronavirus outbreak and stands ready to use its authority to protect the health and safety of the American people,” said FMCSA Acting Administrator Jim Mullen.

FMCSA’s declaration provides for regulatory relief for commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance supporting emergency relief efforts intended to meet immediate needs for:

  • Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19.
  • Supplies and equipment, including masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants, necessary for healthcare worker, patient and community safety, sanitation, and prevention of COVID-19 spread in communities.
  • Food for emergency restocking of stores.
  • Equipment, supplies and persons necessary for establishment and management of temporary housing and quarantine facilities related to COVID-19.
  • Persons designated by Federal, State or local authorities for transport for medical, isolation or quarantine purposes.
  • Personnel to provide medical or other emergency services.
To ensure continue safety on the nation’s roadways, the emergency declaration stipulates that once a driver has completed his or her delivery, the drive must receive a minimum of 10 hours off duty if transporting property, and 8 hours if transporting passengers.
 

CANADIAN PROVINCES

ALBERTA

Alberta has declared a state of emergency. Out permit office is still open and staffed but some are working from home. Both engineers who support the permit office are working from home but we don’t anticipate any delay in review and approval times of permit applications. We’re also not waiving the requirement for overweight permits during spring season which is already in effect in the southern region of the province. 

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Enforcement staff are modifying procedures in order to limit direct contact and handling of paperwork, and scales are being limited to staff only. Where possible, our carrier safety and vehicle inspection facility audit staff are re-scheduling appointments. At the permit centre, options to give each staff member additional space are being worked on and we are exploring technologies that might enable more staff to work from home.

MANITOBA

Manitoba is currently not under a state of emergency and OS/OW permit office hours and staffing levels have not been affected.  They are currently developing contingency plans for operating at reduced services levels and looking at options for waiving the requirement for some types of permits.  At the moment they are not contemplating waiving the requirement for overweight permits due to the onset of spring road restrictions, and the potential long-term damage to our highways during this vulnerable time. Some oversize, temporary registration and fuel tax permits are being considered. 

NEW BRUNSWICK

Government services are transitioning to critical service only tomorrow.  Permit Office  will be closed for March 17 to enable us to reorganize to insure  continued permit service through the covid-19  outbreak

NOVA SCOTIA

Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services provides the delivery of services on behalf of multiple provincial government departments. Our department has made changes to our operations based on recommendations from the World Health Organization, federal and provincial governments.  These changes support the safety and well-being of our clients and team members and will help ensure services continue to be delivered based on today’s environment.

That said, we are one part of the delivery of service.  To that end, we have reached out to the departments we provide services for to ask what changes will be implemented based on various scenarios that may unfold in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

We ask that clients be patient as we work through next steps.  As we know more, we will share with all clients/public at the same time.

ONTARIO

Although we’ve yet to confirm with Ontario MTO directly, widespread reports indicate their office has not been issuing single trip permits for at least the past few days.  Expect major delays going forward.

The Ministry of Transportation has enacted it’s continuity of operations plan effective today in response to concerns about the spread of COVID-19. To reduce the impact this disruption has on business and permit requestors, time critical services related to Oversize/Overweight Single-Trip Permits will continue to be delivered in a limited capacity. Annual permit application are not presently being processed.

The office located at 301 St. Paul St., St. Catharines will be temporarily closed.  Permit requests can continue to be sent by fax.
Please note that as the office is operating on a limited capacity at this time. Please contact oo.permits.review@ontario.ca as staff will be reviewing this email box daily.

A proposal is being put together for the secretary of cabinet regarding annuals permits are expiring on the road.  The publication has not yet been released.  The Oversize/Overweight department will not be responding to status checks. Once additional information becomes available we can update you.

SASKATCHEWAN

Saskatchewan has declared and emergency but we will continue to provide permits as usual with no reduction in staff or ability. Will keep you all posted if anything changes. Weight restrictions for spring season are expected to be in effect.