2 Del. Admin. Code § 2405-5.0

Current through Register Vol. 28, No. 5, November 1, 2024
Section 2405-5.0 - Additional Requirements for Superload Permits
5.1 Definition
5.1.1 A superload is defined as a vehicle or load having any 1 of the following physical characteristics:

Length - 120 feet or greater;

Width - 15 feet or greater;

Height - 15 feet or greater;

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) - 120,000 lbs. or greater.

5.1.2 A superload is further defined by type of physical characteristics.

Type 1 - Length only

Type 2 - Width only

Type 3 - Height only

Type 4 - GVW only

Type 5 - Combination of two or more physical characteristics

5.2 General
5.2.1 Superload moves will be considered on a case by case basis.
5.2.2 Requirement for permit application submission and review lead time will vary depending on, but not limited to, superload type, proposed route, size of vehicle/load, and number of DelDOT sections involved with review process.
5.2.3 Permittee will enter a realistic Start Date on the permit application that will take into account the stated application review time below.
5.2.4 When Planning for Move
5.2.4.1 Review escort, sign, and flag requirements are outlined in Section 4.0 of this regulation.
5.2.4.2 Following the requirements in subsection 5.4, complete and submit a Route Survey (HP Form 16). Forms are available on the Department's website at https://deldot.gov/osow/application/forms.
5.2.4.3 Complete and submit a State of Delaware SUPERLOAD Gate Keeping Checklist (HP Form 17). Forms are available on the Department's website at https://deldot.gov/osow/application/forms.
5.2.4.4 Refer to Contact Us on OSOW Permit System web site for contact information (https://www.deldot.gov/osow/application/contactus).
5.2.4.5 The Delaware State Police shall be notified a minimum of 48 hours in advance of a superload move. To schedule a DSP escort view the DSP Escort Information link on the OSOW Permit System web site (www.osow.deldot.gov).
5.2.4.6 Be prepared to submit a dimensioned cross-sectional view of the vehicle or load.
5.3 Superload Permit Application Review Lead Time, Supporting Documentation and Special Provisions
5.3.1 Type 1 - Length only
5.3.1.1 Application Review Time - Application will typically be processed within 5 business days of submission. Additional review time may be necessary based on complexity of move, timely submission of supporting documentation and availability of Department staff The Department will accept no liability or other claim due to processing delay or the refusal to permit the move at all.
5.3.1.2 Supporting Documentation
5.3.1.2.1 Permit application normally will not require supporting documentation, however, for a move of extreme length, as determined by DelDOT a route survey (See subsection 5.4 entitled Route Survey Requirements) shall be requested to guarantee that a single movement can occur along the intended route. If the permitted load is forced to conduct multiple movements to maneuver through a specific location of the route, the route survey must note the impacts. Additional arrangements or data may be required to accommodate these maneuvers. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work.
5.3.1.3 Times of Travel - Type 1 superload moves will be authorized to move from sunrise to sunset Monday - Sunday during the period between the permit Effective and Expiration Dates.
5.3.1.3.1 DelDOT reserves the right to restrict moves within time periods noted above on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.1.3.2 To request movement during hours other than those noted above, the permittee must provide the following 3 specific items in the Comments section of the permit application:
5.3.1.3.2.1 JUSTIFICATION (explain why move is necessary);
5.3.1.3.2.2 DATE OF MOVE / DATES OF MOVE;
5.3.1.3.2.3 INCLUSIVE TIMES OF MOVE in DELAWARE (Start Time of move in Delaware or at state line and End Time at destination in Delaware or state line).
5.3.1.3.3 The review process may take up to 14 business days.
5.3.1.4 Special Provisions
5.3.1.4.1 Hauler will have 1 Front Escort, 1 Rear Escort and contract 1 Delaware State Police Trooper and Patrol Car. The permitted load may require additional Delaware State Police Troopers and Patrol Cars based on the physical characteristics of the load.
5.3.1.4.2 Additional Special Provisions may apply and will display in the Special Provisions portion of the final permit.
5.3.2 Type 2 - Width only
5.3.2.1 Application Review Time - Application will typically be processed within 10 business days of submission. Additional review time may be necessary based on complexity of move, timely submission of supporting documentation and availability of Department staff. The Department will accept no liability or other claim due to processing delay or the refusal to permit the move at all.
5.3.2.2 Supporting Documentation
5.3.2.2.1 Permit application may not require supporting documentation, however, for a move of extreme width, as determined by DelDOT a route survey (See subsection 5.4 entitled Route Survey Requirements) shall be requested to guarantee that a single movement can occur along the intended route. If the permitted load is forced to conduct multiple movements to maneuver through a specific location of the route, the route survey must note the impacts. Additional arrangements or data may be required to accommodate these maneuvers. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work.
5.3.2.2.2 For width clearance, the route survey shall guarantee that no portion of the movement shall be within 3 or 6 inches on each side of any lateral object. Lateral objects may include utility poles, cables, signs, limbs of trees, or structures. If the permitted vehicle is forced to leave the right lane of travel to avoid a lateral obstruction, maneuver through a work zone, or arrangements need to be made to move any object, the route survey must note the necessary impacts. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work.
5.3.2.2.3 If the load is so wide that passage by it cannot occur to clear queued traffic, the escort requirement shall include sufficient Police Officers to provide diverting of traffic at reasonable points.
5.3.2.2.4 If the load cannot allow vehicle passage, maintenance of traffic may be required. Please refer to subsection 5.5 entitled Detour/Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) Requirements. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work.
5.3.2.3 Times of Travel - Type 2 superload moves will be authorized to move from sunrise to sunset Monday - Sunday during the period between the permit Effective and Expiration Dates. Movement should be avoided from 6:00 a.m. through 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m.
5.3.2.3.1 DelDOT reserves the right to restrict moves within time periods noted above on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.2.3.2 To request movement during hours other than those noted above, the permittee must provide the following 3 specific items in the Comments section of the permit application:
5.3.2.3.2.1 JUSTIFICATION (explain why move is necessary);
5.3.2.3.2.2 DATE OF MOVE / DATES OF MOVE;
5.3.2.3.2.3 INCLUSIVE TIMES OF MOVE in DELAWARE (Start Time of move in Delaware or at state line and End Time at destination in Delaware or state line).
5.3.2.3.3 The review process may take up to 14 business days.
5.3.2.4 Special Provisions
5.3.2.4.1 Hauler will have 1 Front Escort, 1 Rear Escort and contract 1 Delaware State Police Trooper and Patrol Car. The permitted load may require additional Delaware State Police Troopers and Patrol Cars based on the physical characteristics of the load.
5.3.2.4.2 Additional Special Provisions may apply and will display in the Special Provisions portion of the final permit.
5.3.3 Type 3 - Height only
5.3.3.1 Application Review Time - Application will typically be processed within 10 business days of submission. Additional review time may be necessary based on complexity of move, timely submission of supporting documentation and availability of Department staff. The Department will accept no liability or other claim due to processing delay or the refusal to permit the move at all.
5.3.3.2 Supporting Documentation
5.3.3.2.1 Permit application may not require supporting documentation, however, for a move of extreme height, as determined by DelDOT a route survey (See subsection 5.4 entitled Route Survey Requirements) shall be requested to guarantee that a single movement can occur along the intended route.
5.3.3.2.2 If a Route Survey (HP Form 16) is required it shall guarantee that no portion of the movement shall be within 6 inches of any overhead object. If the permitted vehicle is forced to leave the right lane of travel to avoid an overhead obstruction, maneuver through a work zone, or arrangements need to be made to move any overhead object, the route survey must note the necessary impacts. Please refer to subsection 5.4 entitled Route Survey Requirements. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work. DelDOT Traffic must receive a copy of the route survey prior to the approval of the permit.
5.3.3.2.3 Depending upon the height of the superload, a DelDOT Traffic approved electrical contractor may be required to perform the adjustment/removal or repair/replacement of any traffic signal equipment along the route during the move. The work performed by DelDOT Traffic's electrical contractor will be under the supervision of DelDOT Traffic Signal Maintenance. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work and any repairs that are a result of the move. DelDOT Traffic must receive written confirmation prior to the approval of the permit, that the approved contractor will be available with adequate resources. Skidding of traffic signal equipment is not permitted.
5.3.3.2.4 Clearance shall be obtained from the appropriate utility companies serving the intended route. DelDOT must receive written confirmation from utility companies prior to the approval of the permit. Hauler needs to determine and provide DelDOT detail as to the work that will be required by the utility companies along the proposed route (adjustment up or taking down of lines) as this may create the need for additional traffic control measures. Hauler is responsible for all associated costs with this requirement.
5.3.3.2.5 Vegetation clearing shall be obtained from a Delaware certified arborist along the intended route. DelDOT must receive written confirmation from the arborist performing the work prior to the approval of the permit. Hauler needs to determine and provide DelDOT details as to the work that will be required by the arborist along the proposed route (description and location of vegetation removal) as this may create the need for additional traffic control measures. Hauler is responsible to obtain approval from the property owner prior to removal of the vegetation. Hauler is responsible for all associated costs with this requirement.
5.3.3.2.6 Overhead wires, cables, signal or traffic lights, limbs of trees or overhead structures shall not be disturbed without first obtaining permission from the owners thereof and movements shall not be commenced until after such consents are obtained in writing. Permittee must notify and make arrangements with all utility companies and owners.
5.3.3.3 Times of Travel - Type 3 superload moves will be authorized to move from sunrise to sunset Monday - Sunday during the period between the permit Effective and Expiration Dates. Movement should be avoided from 6:00 a.m. through 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m.
5.3.3.3.1 DelDOT reserves the right to restrict moves within time periods noted above on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.3.3.2 To request movement during hours other than those noted above, the permittee must provide the following 3 specific items in the Comments section of the permit application:
5.3.3.3.2.1 JUSTIFICATION (explain why move is necessary);
5.3.3.3.2.2 DATE OF MOVE / DATES OF MOVE;
5.3.3.3.2.3 INCLUSIVE TIMES OF MOVE in DELAWARE (Start Time of move in Delaware or at state line and End Time at destination in Delaware or state line).
5.3.3.3.3 The review process may take up to 14 business days.
5.3.3.4 Special Provisions
5.3.3.4.1 Hauler will have 1 Front Escort, 1 Rear Escort and contract 1 Delaware State Police Trooper and Patrol Car. The permitted load may require additional Delaware State Police Troopers and Patrol Cars based on the physical characteristics of the load.
5.3.3.4.2 Additional Special Provisions may apply and will display in the Special Provisions portion of the final permit.
5.3.4 Type 4 - GVW only
5.3.4.1 Application Review Time - Application will typically be processed within 10 business days of submission. Additional review time may be necessary based on complexity of move, timely submission of supporting documentation and availability of Department staff. The Department will accept no liability or other claim due to processing delay or the refusal to permit the move at all.
5.3.4.2 Supporting Documentation
5.3.4.2.1 Permit application normally will not require supporting documentation, however, may be requested upon initial review of load and route.
5.3.4.2.2 Applications for permits which exceed a gross weight of 120,000 lbs., or which involve a route across any structure which is posted with a load limit below the gross weight of the proposed movement, must be processed and approved by the DelDOT Bridge Management Section.
5.3.4.2.3 For weight impacts, the permittee shall guarantee that no portion of the movement shall not exceed posted roadway or bridge weight limits. If the permitted vehicle is forced to structural enhance the roadway or structure to travel along the proposed route, a route survey is required noting the necessary enhancements at the structure. All enhancements must be approved by DelDOT prior to permit approval. Please refer to subsection 5.4 entitled Route Survey Requirements. Hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work.
5.3.4.3 Times of Travel - Type 4 superload moves will be authorized to move from sunrise to sunset Monday - Sunday during the period between the permit Effective and Expiration Dates as long as they can maintain a continuous travel speed greater than or equal to 10 miles per hour below the posted speed limit. If the continuous travel speed is less than 10 miles per hour below the posted speed limit, superload moves should avoid moving from 6:00 AM through 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM through 7:00 PM Monday - Friday.
5.3.4.3.1 DelDOT reserves the right to restrict moves within time periods noted above on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.4.3.2 To request movement during hours other than those noted above, the permittee must provide the following 3 specific items in the Comments section of the permit application:
5.3.4.3.2.1 JUSTIFICATION (explain why move is necessary);
5.3.4.3.2.2 DATE OF MOVE / DATES OF MOVE;
5.3.4.3.2.3 INCLUSIVE TIMES OF MOVE in DELAWARE (Start Time of move in Delaware or at state line and End Time at destination in Delaware or state line).
5.3.4.3.3 The review process may take up to 14 business days.
5.3.4.4 Special Provisions
5.3.4.4.1 Hauler will have 1 Front Escort and 1 Rear Escort during the move. The permitted load may require Delaware State Police Troopers and Patrol Cars based on the physical characteristics of the load or known assets along the route.
5.3.4.4.2 Additional Special Provisions may apply and will display in the Special Provisions portion of the final permit.
5.3.5 Type 5 - Combination of 2 or more physical characteristics
5.3.5.1 Permittee shall adhere to all requirements set forth for Superload Type 1 to Type 4 as well as the requirements set forth in this specific type.
5.3.5.2 Application Review Time - Application will typically be processed within 14 business days of submission. Additional review time may be necessary based on complexity of move, timely submission of supporting documentation and availability of Department staff. The Department will accept no liability or other claim due to processing delay or the refusal to permit the move at all.
5.3.5.3 Supporting Documentation
5.3.5.3.1 This type of move normally will require a Route Survey (HP Form 16). Please refer to subsection 5.4 entitled Route Survey Requirements.
5.3.5.3.2 This type move normally will require State of Delaware SUPERLOAD Gate-Keeping Checklist (HP Form 17). Refer to subsection 5.2.4.3 for website link to forms.
5.3.5.4 Times of Travel - Type 5 superload moves will be authorized to move from sunrise to sunset Monday - Sunday during the period between the permit Effective and Expiration Dates but shall adhere to all additional requirements set forth in this section. Movement should be avoided from 6:00 AM through 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM through 7:00 PM Monday - Friday.
5.3.5.4.1 DelDOT reserves the right to restrict moves within this time period on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.5.4.2 Permitted Type 5 superload moves are recommended to move Tuesday through Thursday, except during the hours of 6:00 AM through 9:00 AM and from 3:00 PM through 7:00 PM, along routes located in beach resort areas from May 15 through October 1. Permitted vehicles should not be moved along routes located in beach resort areas on Mondays, Fridays, and weekends from May 15 through October 1. DelDOT also reserves the right to restrict moves within this time period on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.5.4.3 The Department, at its discretion, may authorize permitted vehicles to move during designated times between sunset and sunrise, however, they may be subject to special lighting requirements identified in this regulation. If a night move is authorized, the Department may also require additional lights, company escort vehicles, Delaware State Police Trooper and patrol car, or local police and patrol car on a case-by-case basis.
5.3.5.4.4 SUPERLOAD moves are not allowed to travel during holidays or special events without special permission being obtained from the Department. Requests to travel on a restricted holiday or during a special event must be submitted in writing detailing the reasoning for the move to occur. Holiday and event restrictions can be found on the OOPS System webpage by clicking on the Holiday Restrictions" link.
5.3.5.4.5 To request movement during hours other than those noted above, the permittee must provide the following 3 specific items in the Comments section of the permit application:
5.3.5.4.5.1 JUSTIFICATION (explain why move is necessary);
5.3.5.4.5.2 DATE OF MOVE / DATES OF MOVE;
5.3.5.4.5.3 INCLUSIVE TIMES OF MOVE in DELAWARE (Start Time of move in Delaware or at state line and End Time at destination in Delaware or state line).
5.3.5.4.6 The review process may take up to 14 business days.
5.3.5.4.7 DelDOT reserves the right to restrict moves on a case-by-case basis in order to minimize impacts to the traveling public and to ensure public safety.
5.3.5.5 Special Provisions
5.3.5.5.1 Hauler will have 1 Front Escort, 1 Rear Escort and contract 1 Delaware State Police Trooper and Patrol Car. The permitted load may require additional Delaware State Police Troopers and Patrol Cars based on the physical characteristics of the load.
5.3.5.5.2 Additional Special Provisions may apply and will display in the Special Provisions portion of the final permit.
5.3.5.5.3 HP Form 17 State of Delaware SUPERLOAD Gate-Keeping Checklist Documentation required (Circled Yes) on the State of Delaware SUPERLOAD Gate-Keeping Checklist. NOTE: Required documents may be submitted after the initial permit application submission, however, review time may be increased.
5.4 Route Survey Requirements
5.4.1 When a Route Survey is required
5.4.1.1 It is the responsibility of the permittee to supply a completed Form displaying the required data prior to permit review. Forms are available on the Department's website at https://deldot.gov/osow/application/forms.
5.4.1.2 The survey shall be completed within 14 business days prior to the date of the move. The Department, at its discretion, may authorize the use of an older route survey should the physical conditions not change along the route.
5.4.1.3 The survey assures that sufficient clearance of all physical objects along the route exists for the movement to be made and that no roadway or bridge weight limits will be exceeded.
5.4.1.4 For height clearance, the survey shall guarantee that no portion of the movement shall be within 6 inches of any overhead object. If the permitted vehicle is forced to leave the right lane of travel to avoid an overhead obstruction, maneuver through a work zone, or arrangements need to be made to move any overhead object, the route survey must note the necessary impacts.
5.4.1.5 Overhead wires, cables, signal or traffic lights, limbs of trees or overhead structures shall not be disturbed without first obtaining permission from the owners thereof and movements shall not be commenced until after such consents are obtained in writing. Permittee must notify and make arrangements with all utility companies and owners.
5.4.1.6 For width clearance, the survey shall guarantee that no portion of the movement shall be within 3 or 6 inches on each side of any lateral object. Lateral objects may include utility poles, cables, signs, limbs of trees or structures. If the permitted vehicle is forced to leave the right lane of travel to avoid a lateral obstruction, maneuver through a work zone, or arrangements need to be made to move any object, the route survey must note the necessary impacts.
5.4.1.7 For length clearance, the survey shall guarantee that a single movement can occur along the intended route. If the permitted load is forced to conduct multiple movements to maneuver through a specific location of the route, the route survey shall note the impacts. Additional arrangements or data may be required to accommodate these maneuvers.
5.4.1.8 For weight impacts, the survey shall guarantee that no portion of the movement shall not exceed posted roadway or bridge weight limits. If the permitted vehicle is forced to structural enhance the roadway or structure to travel along the proposed route, the route survey must note the necessary enhancements. All enhancements must be approved by DelDOT prior to permit approval.
5.4.1.9 Submission of or operation of a route survey found not to be legitimate by any Law Enforcement Officer or DelDOT employee or a survey not actually performed on the date shown above, may result in revocation of the existing special hauling permit and may result in sanctions against the company/person that has certified the route survey as signed.
5.5 Detour/Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) Requirements
5.5.1 Applications for permits which involve temporary or permanent road closures along the intended route may require additional temporary traffic control determined by DelDOT Traffic. The hauler is responsible for all costs associated with this work.
5.5.2 A traffic control vendor, approved by DelDOT Traffic, may be required to provide temporary traffic control, such as signage, pavement markings, channelizing devices, message boards, barriers, attenuators, and personnel, to be on-site throughout the duration of the move. Any equipment or manpower provided shall comply with the Delaware Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (DE MUTCD) Chapter 6A (2 DE Admin. Code 2402), most current edition available at the time of the move. DelDOT Traffic must receive written confirmation prior to the approval of the permit, that the traffic control vendor will be available with adequate resources. The hauler is responsible for all associated costs with this requirement.
5.5.3 Variable message boards will be placed at the locations directed by the DelDOT Traffic. Message boards shall be placed 1 day prior to the movement with the approved message provided by DelDOT Traffic. Upon placement of the variable message boards, the vendor shall notify our Transportation Management Center (TMC) (302-659-4600) with necessary contact/emergency information. Failure to have the required variable message boards placed and operational during the specified time period will result in the delay of the move.
5.5.4 Failure on the part of the hauler or the vendor to provide sufficient traffic control devices described on the approved plans, personnel, resources, or equipment may result in the cancellation, delay, or termination of the move until the deficiencies are corrected to the satisfaction of DelDOT Traffic.
5.6 Additional Requirements During Move (One or more items below may apply)
5.6.1 Any oversize or overweight vehicles that cannot move at normal posted highway speeds (within 10 mph) are restricted from moves in the State of Delaware between 12 Noon on Friday and 12 Noon on Monday during the timeframe from May 15 through October 1. This restriction applies to the following roads which can be modified by the Department on a case-by-case basis:

New Castle County: I-95, I-295, I-495, US 13, and SR 1

Kent / Sussex Counties: US 9, US 13, US 113, SR 1, SR 18, SR 24, SR 26, SR 54, and SR 404.

5.6.2 Superload haulers are required to give notice of a Superload move to the local 911 office (using their non-emergency phone number) and the Department's Traffic Management Center (TMC) in Smyrna, Delaware. These offices can be reached at the following numbers:

New Castle County 911 Office Non Emergency: (302) 573-2800

Kent County 911 Office Non Emergency: (302) 739-4525

Sussex County 911 Office Non Emergency: (302) 855-2980

Traffic Management Center (TMC): (302) 659-4600

5.6.3 The local 911 offices and the TMC shall be given notice of a SUPERLOAD move a minimum of 1-hour before the move takes place and at final destination or has cleared State of Delaware.
5.6.4 Superload haulers may be required to give written notice to any incorporated area on the route of a Superload movement through that area. The incorporated area shall provide written acknowledgment of the movement of the Superload. DelDOT shall be provided a copy of the written notice prior to permit approval.
5.6.5 Superloads and moves involving a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) under the Superload classification will be subject to individual axle weight analysis by the DelDOT Bridge Management Section and Materials and Research Section. The Sections will automatically review permits with an individual axle weight at or greater than 25,000 lbs., however, analysis may occur at a lower weight on a case-by-case basis. The permittee is responsible to effectively distribute a load or reduce the overall weight below this axle limit, as necessary, to lessen the higher live load forces overstressing state structures.
5.6.6 The Hauler agrees to and shall reimburse DelDOT for any labor, equipment, material, and evaluation costs required to support the move. Prior to the move, DelDOT shall furnish to the hauler an estimate of these services, which shall be signed and returned to DelDOT a minimum of 48 hours prior to the services. An invoice reflecting actual costs shall then be provided to the Hauler and the Hauler shall submit payment for the services rendered within 30 days of the date of the invoice. Failure to pay the invoice in a timely fashion may result in the suspension of future hauling permits being processed/ issued.

2 Del. Admin. Code § 2405-5.0

20 DE Reg. 194 (9/1/2016)
21 DE Reg. 585 (1/1/2018)
23 DE Reg. 326 (10/1/2019)
26 DE Reg. 408 (11/1/2022)
26 DE Reg. 1078 (6/1/2023) (Final)