Vehicle Weights and Dimensions

Vehicle weights and dimensions changes were made on December 18, 2006.

Further changes to the vehicle weights and dimensions regulations were made on July 20, 2007.

Read the regulations regarding vehicle weights and dimensions by clicking on the arrow button next to the regulations titled Weights and Dimensions of Vehicle Regulations on the linked page.

Weight Tolerances and Transition Plan

On January 1, 2008 changes to regulated tolerance came into affect on Nova Scotia highways. A summary of the changes can be viewed be clicking here. A summary of the transition plan can be viewed here, while the whole transition plan can be viewed here.

Intermediate Weight Roads

Effective February 10, 2009 amendments have been made to the Weights and Dimensions of Vehicles Regulations and the changes are now in effect.

The maximum gross vehicle weight increases for 6-axle tractor tridem semi-trailer configurations on those local roads that have bridges and other structures that can support the additional weight.

Six-axle tractor tridem semi-trailers will be allowed to operate at a maximum weight of 47,500 kg on specified roads, an increase of 6,000 kg for those configurations.

Complete road list

Long Combination Vehicle Pilot Project

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is commencing a pilot project to investigate the potential use of long combination vehicles (LCV) on four lane, divided highways in Nova Scotia. The pilot project will be run for one year, after which the potential for continued use of LCVs with be determined. In order to be considered for this pilot, a carrier must submit an application and conform to the requirements set forth in this document.

Overdimensional and Overweight Vehicles and Loads

For information on the rules and policies governing overweight vehicles and loads please contact Steve Eisan, A/Manager Structural Engineering, at (902)424-2717 or eisanst@gov.ns.ca or Will Crocker, Bridge Engineer, at (902) 424-2589 or crockena@gov.ns.ca.

For information on the rules and policies governing overdimensional vehicles and loads please contact Michael Balsom, Vehicle Weights & Dimensions, at (902)424-0070 or balsommg@gov.ns.ca, or Paul Richard, at (902)424-2206 or richarpa@gov.ns.ca.

For information on ordering a special move permit for overdimensional and/or overweight vehicles and loads please contact Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations at (902) 424-5851 or 1-800-898-7668 (in Nova Scotia only) or see Special Move Permit: Overdimension and/or Special Move Permit: Overweight