18.8.431    MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE WEIGHT

(1) The maximum allowable gross weight for vehicle combinations hauling divisible loads is 131,060 pounds. Vehicles and vehicle combinations hauling divisible loads must comply with the federal bridge formula found in 61-10-107, MCA, unless otherwise provided for in statute, federal regulations or department rules.

(2) Maximum allowable weights allowed for vehicle combinations hauling divisible loads on highways cannot exceed a gross vehicle weight and single or tandem weights as described in 23 CFR 658, appendix C, April 1, 2015 edition. Copies of the regulations may be obtained at www.gpo.gov.

(3) The maximum allowable gross weight for vehicle combinations hauling divisible loads on the federal interstate system and operating under the provisions of 23 CFR 658, appendix C, April 1, 2015 edition, or operating under 61-10-107(1)(b), MCA, on non-interstate highways is 137,800 pounds. Copies of the regulations may be obtained at www.gpo.gov.

(4) A department weight analysis of the highway infrastructure will determine the maximum gross weight and axle weights allowed on applicable non-interstate highways. Based on this analysis, the maximum gross weight and axle weights may be less than those allowed in 23 CFR 658, appendix C, April 1, 2015 edition. Copies of the regulations may be obtained at www.gpo.gov.

(5) If periodic, subsequent analyses of any portion of the applicable non-interstate highways indicate unanticipated deterioration of the infrastructure, lower axle weights and gross weight may be required at the department's discretion.

(6) Lower weights for non-interstate highways may be required during periods of seasonal deterioration as authorized in 61-10-108, MCA.

(7) Permits may be issued for the weights in 23 CFR 658, appendix C, April 1, 2015 edition, for the same permit types and under the same fee schedule provided in 61-10-125, MCA and ARM Title 18, chapter 8, subchapter 6. Copies of the CFR regulations may be obtained at www.gpo.gov.

(8) The maximum allowable weight for a mobile home for licensing purposes is the bridge formula in 61-10-107, MCA. A mobile home with any additional weight must obtain an excess axle weight permit as per 61-10-125, MCA.

 

History: 61-10-155, MCA; IMP, 61-10-107, 61-10-108, 61-10-121, 61-10-125, MCA; NEW, 2001 MAR p. 2142, Eff. 10/26/01; AMD, 2006 MAR p. 206, Eff. 1/27/06; AMD, 2010 MAR p. 1179, Eff. 5/14/10; AMD, 2016 MAR p. 312, Eff. 2/20/16; AMD, 2019 MAR p. 1632, Eff. 9/21/19.