2024 Vermont Winter Frost/Spring Thaw Laws and Seasonal Weight Restrictions
Vermont implements frost laws and seasonal restrictions to address the impact of winter thaws, rainy periods, and melting frost on state highways. When the Agency of Transportation posts roads during these conditions, it’s crucial to note that permits do not override these road postings. Lights are mandatory for any load extending 4 inches or more beyond the vehicle’s overall width. These lights must be positioned at the foremost edge, rearmost edge, and along the rear edge if they project 4 feet beyond the vehicle’s body. Red lamps that show the full width of the load must be visible from the rear and side.
Vermont Oversized Load Signs and Banners
For loads exceeding 8 feet 6 inches in width, 13 feet 6 inches in height, or 75 feet in length, an “Oversize Load” banner is required. This banner should be at least 7 feet long, 18 inches high, with a yellow background, black lettering, letters of at least 10 inches high, and a 1¼-inch brush stroke. The banner material should withstand inclement weather conditions and be kept in a legible state. Flag regulations include using bright or fluorescent red or orange flags with a minimum size of 18 inches by 18 inches. Over-width loads require at least 4 flags mounted at vehicle corners, and irregularly shaped loads may need additional flags. Overlength loads or those with overhangs exceeding 4 feet should display flags at the end of the overhang.
Vermont Winter Travel Times
Running hours for vehicles and loads that are overwidth, overlength, or overheight are restricted to daylight hours, allowing movement from thirty minutes before sunrise to thirty minutes after sunset. For loads exceeding 10 feet 6 inches wide, 100 feet long, or 108,000 pounds, weekend and holiday restrictions apply. Movement is prohibited on Saturdays, Sundays, and Friday afternoons between July 1 and Labor Day, or specified holidays. Tire regulations may require using tire chains on certain sections of state highways during winter weather for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds. Chains must be placed on designated tires based on the vehicle’s configuration, and advance notice is given to the public through signage and public service announcements in areas where chains are required. There should also be adequate areas for vehicles to pull off the road to affix chains if needed.
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