1. Regulating Authority & Permit Type
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In Oregon, transporting a mobile home, modular building, or chassis unit requires a special transportation permit.
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The relevant regulations fall under Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 734, Division 75 (“Over-Dimensional Mobile Homes and Modular Building Units”).
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The permit form for mobile homes is referred to as Attachment 75A.
2. Registration and Weight Declaration
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Even with the permit, the transporting vehicle must be properly registered and have declared tax/weight appropriately.
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The permit does not override the vehicle’s registration weight — you cannot carry more than what the vehicle was declared to weigh for tax/registration.
3. Carrier & Driver Responsibilities
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The permittee (the company or person who holds the permit) and driver are liable for any damage to persons, property, or highway structures due to the transport.
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They must ensure adequate vertical and horizontal clearance, including contacting utilities (e.g., telephone, cable) if needed, to confirm there’s no risk of hitting wires or structures.
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In the event of an accident (e.g., hitting a bridge or structure), Oregon requires the carrier to report to the Over-Dimension Permit Unit within 24 hours.
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Drivers may be required to enter weigh scales when directed, even if they have a green light from a transponder.
4. Size Limits & Escort (Pilot Car) Requirements
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Width: If the base width (the main body of the mobile home) exceeds 14 feet, or the overall width is more than 15 feet, there are stricter permit conditions.
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According to Oregon’s Pilot Car Guide, for certain width thresholds, two-lane highways may require two front and one rear pilot (escort) vehicles, depending on the district.
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When a mobile home exceeds 14 ft base width, it must travel only in the right lane on highways (unless permit or traffic conditions dictate otherwise).
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ODOT may require a traffic control plan for very wide moves (for example, base width over 14 ft or overall width over 15 ft) on two-lane roads.
5. Lighting and Markings
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Over-width mobile homes (beyond certain width) must have clearance lights: specifically, two flashing amber lights mounted on the rear corners of the eave (if the eave extends significantly).
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These required lights must be:
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On a horizontal plane at least 8 feet above the road, and
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Visible from 500 feet.
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6. Time, Day & Route Restrictions
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The movement of mobile homes is subject to travel time restrictions as specified in “Attachment H” of the permit rules.
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These restrictions exist to avoid conflict with local traffic patterns, construction, and seasonal conditions.
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For very large or wide mobile homes, a pre-approved route is required, meaning the permit will specify exactly which highways or roads can be used.
7. Insurance, Bonding & Liability
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Carriers may be required to provide proof of liability and property damage insurance, depending on the permit conditions.
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In some cases, a surety bond or certified check is required to cover potential damages to highways or structures.
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The permittee is wholly responsible for any damage to roadway or structures caused by the movement.
8. Reporting Requirements
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If the load strikes a structure or utilities, the carrier must report within 24 hours.
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This helps ODOT assess damage and enforce accountability.
9. Rule Changes & Updates
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Oregon’s rules for mobile home transport are periodically updated. For example, recent changes to OAR 734-075-0037 and other provisions affect the requirement for traffic control plans and lighting.
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It’s critical to check the latest version of ODOT’s rules and permit attachments when applying.
Best Practices for Carriers / Shippers
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Consult early — Before committing to a move, speak with www.oregontruckingonline.org OR call (503) 386-4187
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Do a route survey — Physically or virtually check the planned route for bridges, overhead obstacles, and narrow roads.
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Arrange pilot cars — Depending on width, you may need front and rear escorts. Plan and book them in advance.
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Ensure visibility — Install all required warning lights, including flashing amber clearance lights if needed.
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Get proper insurance or bonding — Be ready to show proof of coverage or post a bond for permit issuance.
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Have a contingency plan — Prepare for what to do if there’s a structure strike or unexpected obstacle; know how to report incidents quickly.