There are roads and bridges on the network which have a load limit applied by the Road Manager. This can be for many reasons; the road pavement has been damaged, or stress has occurred on a bridge which requires a limit to be placed on it.

A load limit sign specifies the permitted load limit, the permitted axle load limit or the maximum dimensions of a vehicle or combination. A vehicle or combination may not pass the load limit sign if the mass or dimension is greater than stipulated on the sign. However, there are provisions in the Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations 2024 which allow the Transport Commission to issue a permit enabling the vehicle or combination to bypass the load limit sign.

Load limited roads and bridges on the Network Map are identified in purple, a purple line signifies a road and a purple dot signifies a bridge.

By clicking on the purple line or dot, information about the road or bridge is displayed in a ‘pop-up’ box, including the maximum mass allowed to travel over that road or bridge. If the mass of the vehicle plus the load is under the prescribed load limit, there is no requirement for further action. If the mass of the vehicle and load exceeds the prescribed load limit and you wish to travel over that road or bridge you need to:

1. Obtain a letter of consent from the Road Manager of the load limited road or bridge. To do this, contact the relevant Road Manager.
2. Complete this application form here and attach the letter of consent from the Road Manager.
3. Send the application form, along with the letter of consent. To:
• E-mail: hvaccess@stategrowth.tas.gov.au; or
• Post application to:
  Heavy Vehicle Access, PO Box 536, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001.

If approved, you will be granted a permit to bypass a prescribed load limit. You will need to carry this permit in the vehicle.