Bill Text: IL HB5643 | 2019-2020 | 101st General Assembly | Introduced

---

Bill Title: Amends the Article of the Illinois Vehicle Code concerning size, weight, load, and permits. Creates a new class of weight limits for vehicles with a distance between 8 and 9 feet between the extremes of any group of 2 or more consecutive axles, with a maximum weight of 38,000 pounds on 2 axles and 42,000 pounds on 3 axles. Provides that 2 consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000 pounds each if the overall distance between the first and last axles of these tandems is 36 feet or more. Deletes language requiring an applicant for a permit for excess size and weight to make certain disclosures relating to whether the applicant is a motor carrier of property. Makes other changes. Provides that the additional fee for certain gross overweight loads is for each additional 45 (instead of 60) miles traveled. Provides that an applicant shall pay $120 (instead of $40) per hour for an engineering inspection or field investigation. Effective immediately.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)

Status: (Introduced - Dead) 2020-06-23 - Rule 19(b) / Re-referred to Rules Committee [HB5643 Detail]

Download: Illinois-2019-HB5643-Introduced.html

---

101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY State of Illinois 2019 and 2020 HB5643 Introduced , by Rep. Martin J. Moylan SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:
625 ILCS 5/15-107 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-107
625 ILCS 5/15-111 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-111
625 ILCS 5/15-301 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-301
625 ILCS 5/15-307 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-307
625 ILCS 5/15-311 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-311
Amends the Article of the Illinois Vehicle Code concerning size, weight, load, and permits. Creates a new class of weight limits for vehicles with a distance between 8 and 9 feet between the extremes of any group of 2 or more consecutive axles, with a maximum weight of 38,000 pounds on 2 axles and 42,000 pounds on 3 axles. Provides that 2 consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000 pounds each if the overall distance between the first and last axles of these tandems is 36 feet or more. Deletes language requiring an applicant for a permit for excess size and weight to make certain disclosures relating to whether the applicant is a motor carrier of property. Makes other changes. Provides that the additional fee for certain gross overweight loads is for each additional 45 (instead of 60) miles traveled. Provides that an applicant shall pay $120 (instead of $40) per hour for an engineering inspection or field investigation. Effective immediately.
LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
FISCAL NOTE ACT MAY APPLY
A BILL FOR
HB5643 LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
AN ACT concerning transportation.
Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois,
represented in the General Assembly:
Section 5. The Illinois Vehicle Code is amended by changing
Sections 15-107, 15-111, 15-301, 15-307, and 15-311 as follows:
(625 ILCS 5/15-107) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-107)
Sec. 15-107. Length of vehicles.
(a) The maximum length of a single vehicle on any highway
of this State may not exceed 42 feet except the following:
(1) Semitrailers.
(2) Charter or regulated route buses may be up to 45
feet in length, not including energy absorbing bumpers.
(a-1) A motor home as defined in Section 1-145.01 may be up
to 45 feet in length, not including energy absorbing bumpers.
The length limitations described in this subsection (a-1) shall
be exclusive of energy-absorbing bumpers and rear view mirrors.
(b) (Blank).
(c) Except as provided in subsections (c-1) and (c-2),
combinations of vehicles may not exceed a total of 2 vehicles
except the following:
(1) A truck tractor semitrailer may draw one trailer.
(2) A truck tractor semitrailer may draw one converter
dolly or one semitrailer.

HB5643 - 2 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(3) A truck tractor semitrailer may draw one vehicle
that is defined in Chapter 1 as special mobile equipment,
provided the overall dimension does not exceed 60 feet.
(4) A truck in transit may draw 3 trucks in transit
coupled together by the triple saddlemount method.
(5) Recreational vehicles consisting of 3 vehicles,
provided the following:
(A) The total overall dimension does not exceed 60
feet.
(B) The towing vehicle is a properly registered
vehicle capable of towing another vehicle using a
fifth-wheel type assembly.
(C) The second vehicle in the combination of
vehicles is a recreational vehicle that is towed by a
fifth-wheel assembly. This vehicle must be properly
registered and must be equipped with brakes,
regardless of weight.
(D) The third vehicle must be the lightest of the 3
vehicles and be a trailer or semitrailer designed or
used for transporting a boat, all-terrain vehicle,
personal watercraft, or motorcycle.
(E) The towed vehicles may be only for the use of
the operator of the towing vehicle.
(F) All vehicles must be properly equipped with
operating brakes and safety equipment required by this
Code, except the additional brake requirement in

HB5643 - 3 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
subdivision (C) of this subparagraph (5).
(6) A tow truck in combination with a disabled vehicle
or combination of disabled vehicles, provided the towing
vehicle:
(A) Is specifically designed as a tow truck having
a gross vehicle weight rating of at least 18,000 pounds
and equipped with air brakes, provided that air brakes
are required only if the towing vehicle is towing a
vehicle, semitrailer, or tractor-trailer combination
that is equipped with air brakes. For the purpose of
this subsection, gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR,
means the value specified by the manufacturer as the
loaded weight of the tow truck.
(B) Is equipped with flashing, rotating, or
oscillating amber lights, visible for at least 500 feet
in all directions.
(C) Is capable of utilizing the lighting and
braking systems of the disabled vehicle or combination
of vehicles.
(D) Does not engage a tow exceeding 50 highway
miles from the initial point of wreck or disablement to
a place of repair. Any additional movement of the
vehicles may occur only upon issuance of authorization
for that movement under the provisions of Sections
15-301 through 15-318 of this Code.
The Department may by rule or regulation prescribe

HB5643 - 4 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
additional requirements regarding length limitations for a
tow truck towing another vehicle.
For purposes of this Section, a tow-dolly that merely
serves as substitute wheels for another legally licensed
vehicle is considered part of the licensed vehicle and not
a separate vehicle.
(7) Commercial vehicles consisting of 3 vehicles,
provided the following:
(A) The total overall dimension does not exceed 65
feet.
(B) The towing vehicle is a properly registered
vehicle capable of towing another vehicle using a
fifth-wheel type assembly or a goose-neck hitch ball.
(C) The third vehicle must be the lightest of the 3
vehicles and be a trailer or semitrailer.
(D) All vehicles must be properly equipped with
operating brakes and safety equipment required by this
Code.
(E) The combination of vehicles must be operated by
a person who holds a commercial driver's license (CDL).
(F) The combination of vehicles must be en route to
a location where new or used trailers are sold by an
Illinois or out-of-state licensed new or used trailer
dealer.
(c-1) A combination of 3 vehicles is allowed access to any
State designated highway if:

HB5643 - 5 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(1) the length of neither towed vehicle exceeds 28.5
feet;
(2) the overall wheel base of the combination of
vehicles does not exceed 62 feet; and
(3) the combination of vehicles is en route to a
location where new or used trailers are sold by an Illinois
or out-of-state licensed new or used trailer dealer.
(c-2) A combination of 3 vehicles is allowed access from
any State designated highway onto any county, township, or
municipal highway for a distance of 5 highway miles for the
purpose of delivery or collection of one or both of the towed
vehicles if:
(1) the length of neither towed vehicle exceeds 28.5
feet;
(2) the combination of vehicles does not exceed 40,000
pounds in gross weight and 8 feet 6 inches in width;
(3) there is no sign prohibiting that access;
(4) the route is not being used as a thoroughfare
between State designated highways; and
(5) the combination of vehicles is en route to a
location where new or used trailers are sold by an Illinois
or out-of-state licensed new or used trailer dealer.
(d) On Class I highways there are no overall length
limitations on motor vehicles operating in combinations
provided:
(1) The length of a semitrailer, unladen or with load,

HB5643 - 6 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
in combination with a truck tractor may not exceed 53 feet.
(2) The distance between the kingpin and the center of
the rear axle of a semitrailer longer than 48 feet, in
combination with a truck tractor, may not exceed 45 feet 6
inches. The limit contained in this paragraph (2) shall not
apply to trailers or semi-trailers used for the transport
of livestock as defined by Section 18b-101.
(3) The length of a semitrailer or trailer, unladen or
with load, operated in a truck tractor-semitrailer-trailer
or truck tractor semitrailer-semitrailer combination, may
not exceed 28 feet 6 inches.
(4) Maxi-cube combinations, as defined in Chapter 1,
may not exceed 65 feet overall dimension.
(5) Combinations of vehicles specifically designed to
transport motor vehicles or boats may not exceed 65 feet
overall dimension. The length limitation is inclusive of
front and rear bumpers but exclusive of the overhang of the
transported vehicles, as provided in paragraph (i) of this
Section.
(6) Stinger-steered semitrailer vehicles specifically
designed to transport motor vehicles or boats and
automobile transporters, as defined in Chapter 1, may not
exceed 80 feet overall dimension. The length limitation is
inclusive of front and rear bumpers but exclusive of the
overhang of the transported vehicles, as provided in
paragraph (i) of this Section.

HB5643 - 7 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(7) A truck in transit transporting 3 trucks coupled
together by the triple saddlemount method may not exceed 97
feet overall dimension.
(8) A towaway trailer transporter combination may not
exceed 82 feet overall dimension.
Vehicles operating during daylight hours when transporting
poles, pipes, machinery, or other objects of a structural
nature that cannot readily be dismantled or disassembled
dismembered are exempt from length limitations, provided that
no object may exceed 80 feet in length and the overall
dimension of the vehicle including the load may not exceed 100
feet. This exemption does not apply to operation on a Saturday,
Sunday, or legal holiday. Legal holidays referred to in this
Section are the days on which the following traditional
holidays are celebrated: New Year's Day; Memorial Day;
Independence Day; Labor Day; Thanksgiving Day; and Christmas
Day.
Vehicles and loads operated by a public utility while en
route to make emergency repairs to public service facilities or
properties are exempt from length limitations, provided that
during night operations every vehicle and its load must be
equipped with a sufficient number of clearance lamps on both
sides and marker lamps on the extreme ends of any projecting
load to clearly mark the dimensions of the load.
A tow truck in combination with a disabled vehicle or
combination of disabled vehicles, as provided in paragraph (6)

HB5643 - 8 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
of subsection (c) of this Section, is exempt from length
limitations.
The length limitations described in this paragraph (d)
shall be exclusive of safety and energy conservation devices,
such as bumpers, refrigeration units or air compressors and
other devices, that the Department may interpret as necessary
for safe and efficient operation; except that no device
excluded under this paragraph shall have by its design or use
the capability to carry cargo.
Section 5-35 of the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act
relating to procedures for rulemaking shall not apply to the
designation of highways under this paragraph (d).
(e) On Class II highways there are no overall length
limitations on motor vehicles operating in combinations,
provided:
(1) The length of a semitrailer, unladen or with load,
in combination with a truck tractor, may not exceed 53 feet
overall dimension.
(2) The distance between the kingpin and the center of
the rear axle of a semitrailer longer than 48 feet, in
combination with a truck tractor, may not exceed 45 feet 6
inches. The limit contained in this paragraph (2) shall not
apply to trailers or semi-trailers used for the transport
of livestock as defined by Section 18b-101.
(3) A truck tractor-semitrailer-trailer or truck
tractor semitrailer-semitrailer combination may not exceed

HB5643 - 9 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
65 feet in dimension from front axle to rear axle.
(4) The length of a semitrailer or trailer, unladen or
with load, operated in a truck tractor-semitrailer-trailer
or truck tractor semitrailer-semitrailer combination, may
not exceed 28 feet 6 inches.
(5) Maxi-cube combinations, as defined in Chapter 1,
may not exceed 65 feet overall dimension.
(6) A combination of vehicles, specifically designed
to transport motor vehicles or boats, may not exceed 65
feet overall dimension. The length limitation is inclusive
of front and rear bumpers but exclusive of the overhang of
the transported vehicles, as provided in paragraph (i) of
this Section.
(7) Stinger-steered semitrailer vehicles specifically
designed to transport motor vehicles or boats may not
exceed 80 feet overall dimension. The length limitation is
inclusive of front and rear bumpers but exclusive of the
overhang of the transported vehicles, as provided in
paragraph (i) of this Section.
(8) A truck in transit transporting 3 trucks coupled
together by the triple saddlemount method may not exceed 97
feet overall dimension.
(9) A towaway trailer transporter combination may not
exceed 82 feet overall dimension.
Vehicles operating during daylight hours when transporting
poles, pipes, machinery, or other objects of a structural

HB5643 - 10 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
nature that cannot readily be dismantled or disassembled
dismembered are exempt from length limitations, provided that
no object may exceed 80 feet in length and the overall
dimension of the vehicle including the load may not exceed 100
feet. This exemption does not apply to operation on a Saturday,
Sunday, or legal holiday. Legal holidays referred to in this
Section are the days on which the following traditional
holidays are celebrated: New Year's Day; Memorial Day;
Independence Day; Labor Day; Thanksgiving Day; and Christmas
Day.
Vehicles and loads operated by a public utility while en
route to make emergency repairs to public service facilities or
properties are exempt from length limitations, provided that
during night operations every vehicle and its load must be
equipped with a sufficient number of clearance lamps on both
sides and marker lamps on the extreme ends of any projecting
load to clearly mark the dimensions of the load.
A tow truck in combination with a disabled vehicle or
combination of disabled vehicles, as provided in paragraph (6)
of subsection (c) of this Section, is exempt from length
limitations.
Local authorities, with respect to streets and highways
under their jurisdiction, may also by ordinance or resolution
allow length limitations of this subsection (e).
The length limitations described in this paragraph (e)
shall be exclusive of safety and energy conservation devices,

HB5643 - 11 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
such as bumpers, refrigeration units or air compressors and
other devices, that the Department may interpret as necessary
for safe and efficient operation; except that no device
excluded under this paragraph shall have by its design or use
the capability to carry cargo.
Section 5-35 of the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act
relating to procedures for rulemaking shall not apply to the
designation of highways under this paragraph (e).
(e-1) (Blank).
(e-2) Except as provided in subsection (e-3), combinations
of vehicles over 65 feet in length, with no overall length
limitation except as provided in subsections (d) and (e) of
this Section, are allowed access as follows:
(1) From a Class I highway onto any street or highway
for a distance of one highway mile for the purpose of
loading, unloading, food, fuel, repairs, and rest,
provided there is no sign prohibiting that access.
(2) From a Class I or Class II highway onto any
non-designated highway for a distance of 5 highway miles
for the purpose of loading, unloading, food, fuel, repairs,
and rest if:
(A) there is no sign prohibiting that access; and
(B) the route is not being used as a thoroughfare
between Class I or Class II highways.
(e-3) Combinations of vehicles over 65 feet in length
operated by household goods carriers or towaway trailer

HB5643 - 12 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
transporter combinations, with no overall length limitations
except as provided in subsections (d) and (e) of this Section,
have unlimited access to points of loading, unloading, or
delivery to or from a manufacturer, distributor, or dealer.
(f) On non-designated highways, the maximum length
limitations for vehicles in combination are as follows:
(1) A truck tractor in combination with a semitrailer
may not exceed 65 feet overall dimension. An agency or
instrumentality of the State of Illinois or any unit of
local government shall not be required to widen or
otherwise alter a non-designated highway constructed
before January 1, 2018 to accommodate truck
tractor-semitrailer combinations under this paragraph (1).
(2) Semitrailers, unladen or with load, may not exceed
53 feet overall dimension.
(3) A truck tractor-semitrailer-trailer or truck
tractor semitrailer-semitrailer may not exceed 60 feet
overall dimension.
(4) The distance between the kingpin and the center
axle of a semitrailer longer than 48 feet, in combination
with a truck tractor, may not exceed 42 feet 6 inches. The
limit contained in this paragraph (4) shall not apply to
trailers or semi-trailers used for the transport of
livestock as defined by Section 18b-101.
(g) Length limitations in the preceding subsections of this
Section 15-107 do not apply to the following:

HB5643 - 13 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(1) Vehicles operated in the daytime, except on
Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays, when transporting
poles, pipe, machinery, or other objects of a structural
nature that cannot readily be dismantled or disassembled
dismembered, provided the overall length of vehicle and
load may not exceed 100 feet and no object exceeding 80
feet in length may be transported unless a permit has been
obtained as authorized in Section 15-301. As used in this
Section, "legal holiday" means any of the following days:
New Year's Day; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day;
Thanksgiving Day; and Christmas Day.
(2) Vehicles and loads operated by a public utility
while en route to make emergency repairs to public service
facilities or properties, but during night operation every
vehicle and its load must be equipped with a sufficient
number of clearance lamps on both sides and marker lamps
upon the extreme ends of any projecting load to clearly
mark the dimensions of the load.
(3) A tow truck in combination with a disabled vehicle
or combination of disabled vehicles, as provided in
paragraph (6) of subsection (c) of this Section, is exempt
from length limitations.
The towing vehicle, however, may tow any disabled vehicle
from the initial point of wreck or disablement to a point where
repairs are actually to occur. This movement shall be valid
only on State routes. The tower must abide by posted bridge

HB5643 - 14 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
weight limits.
All other combinations not listed in this subsection (f)
may not exceed 60 feet overall dimension.
(h) The load upon any vehicle operated alone, or the load
upon the front vehicle of a combination of vehicles, shall not
extend more than 3 feet beyond the front wheels of the vehicle
or the front bumper of the vehicle if it is equipped with a
front bumper. The provisions of this subsection (h) shall not
apply to any vehicle or combination of vehicles specifically
designed for the collection and transportation of waste,
garbage, or recyclable materials during the vehicle's
operation in the course of collecting garbage, waste, or
recyclable materials if the vehicle is traveling at a speed not
in excess of 15 miles per hour during the vehicle's operation
and in the course of collecting garbage, waste, or recyclable
materials. However, in no instance shall the load extend more
than 7 feet beyond the front wheels of the vehicle or the front
bumper of the vehicle if it is equipped with a front bumper.
(i) The load upon the front vehicle of an automobile
transporter or a stinger-steered vehicle specifically designed
to transport motor vehicles shall not extend more than 4 feet
beyond the foremost part of the transporting vehicle and the
load upon the rear transporting vehicle shall not extend more
than 6 feet beyond the rear of the bed or body of the vehicle.
This paragraph shall only be applicable upon highways
designated in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this Section.

HB5643 - 15 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(j) Articulated vehicles comprised of 2 sections, neither
of which exceeds a length of 42 feet, designed for the carrying
of more than 10 persons, may be up to 60 feet in length, not
including energy absorbing bumpers, provided that the vehicles
are:
1. operated by or for any public body or motor carrier
authorized by law to provide public transportation
services; or
2. operated in local public transportation service by
any other person and the municipality in which the service
is to be provided approved the operation of the vehicle.
(j-1) (Blank).
(k) Any person who is convicted of violating this Section
is subject to the penalty as provided in paragraph (b) of
Section 15-113.
(l) (Blank).
(Source: P.A. 100-201, eff. 8-18-17; 100-343, eff. 1-1-18;
100-728, eff. 1-1-19; 101-328, eff. 1-1-20.)
(625 ILCS 5/15-111) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-111)
Sec. 15-111. Wheel and axle loads and gross weights.
(a) No vehicle or combination of vehicles with pneumatic
tires may be operated, unladen or with load, when the total
weight on the road surface exceeds the following: 20,000 pounds
on a single axle; 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle with no axle
within the tandem exceeding 20,000 pounds; 80,000 pounds gross

HB5643 - 16 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
weight for vehicle combinations of 5 or more axles; or a total
weight on a group of 2 or more consecutive axles in excess of
that weight produced by the application of the following
formula: W = 500 times the sum of (LN divided by N-1) + 12N +
36, where "W" equals overall total weight on any group of 2 or
more consecutive axles to the nearest 500 pounds, "L" equals
the distance measured to the nearest foot between extremes of
any group of 2 or more consecutive axles, and "N" equals the
number of axles in the group under consideration.
The above formula when expressed in tabular form results in
allowable loads as follows:
Distance measured
to the nearest
foot between the
extremes of any Maximum weight in pounds
group of 2 or of any group of
more consecutive 2 or more consecutive axles
axles
feet 2 axles 3 axles 4 axles 5 axles 6 axles
4 34,000
5 34,000
6 34,000
7 34,000
8 34,000* 38,000* 34,000 42,000

HB5643 - 17 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
Between 8
and 9 38,000 42,000
9 39,000 42,500
10 40,000 43,500
11 44,000
12 45,000 50,000
13 45,500 50,500
14 46,500 51,500
15 47,000 52,000
16 48,000 52,500 58,000
17 48,500 53,500 58,500
18 49,500 54,000 59,000
19 50,000 54,500 60,000
20 51,000 55,500 60,500 66,000
21 51,500 56,000 61,000 66,500
22 52,500 56,500 61,500 67,000
23 53,000 57,500 62,500 68,000
24 54,000 58,000 63,000 68,500
25 54,500 58,500 63,500 69,000
26 55,500 59,500 64,000 69,500
27 56,000 60,000 65,000 70,000
28 57,000 60,500 65,500 71,000
29 57,500 61,500 66,000 71,500
30 58,500 62,000 66,500 72,000
31 59,000 62,500 67,500 72,500
32 60,000 63,500 68,000 73,000

HB5643 - 18 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
33 64,000 68,500 74,000
34 64,500 69,000 74,500
35 65,500 70,000 75,000
36 66,000** 70,500 75,500
37 66,500** 71,000 76,000
38 67,500** 72,000 77,000
39 68,000 72,500 77,500
40 68,500 73,000 78,000
41 69,500 73,500 78,500
42 70,000 74,000 79,000
43 70,500 75,000 80,000
44 71,500 75,500
45 72,000 76,000
46 72,500 76,500
47 73,500 77,500
48 74,000 78,000
49 74,500 78,500
50 75,500 79,000
51 76,000 80,000
52 76,500
53 77,500
54 78,000
55 78,500
56 79,500
57 80,000
*If the distance between 2 axles is 96 inches or less, the 2

HB5643 - 19 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
axles are tandem axles and the maximum total weight may not
exceed 34,000 pounds, notwithstanding the higher limit
resulting from the application of the formula.
**Two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry 34,000
pounds each if the overall distance between the first and last
axles of these tandems is 36 feet or more.
Vehicles not in a combination having more than 4 axles may
not exceed the weight in the table in this subsection (a) for 4
axles measured between the extreme axles of the vehicle.
Vehicles in a combination having more than 6 axles may not
exceed the weight in the table in this subsection (a) for 6
axles measured between the extreme axles of the combination.
Local authorities, with respect to streets and highways
under their jurisdiction, without additional fees, may also by
ordinance or resolution allow the weight limitations of this
subsection, provided the maximum gross weight on any one axle
shall not exceed 20,000 pounds and the maximum total weight on
any tandem axle shall not exceed 34,000 pounds, on designated
highways when appropriate regulatory signs giving notice are
erected upon the street or highway or portion of any street or
highway affected by the ordinance or resolution.
The following are exceptions to the above formula:
(1) Vehicles for which a different limit is established
and posted in accordance with Section 15-316 of this Code.
(2) Vehicles for which the Department of
Transportation and local authorities issue overweight

HB5643 - 20 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
permits under authority of Section 15-301 of this Code.
These vehicles are not subject to the bridge formula.
(3) Cities having a population of more than 50,000 may
permit by ordinance axle loads on 2-axle motor vehicles 33
1/2% above those provided for herein, but the increase
shall not become effective until the city has officially
notified the Department of the passage of the ordinance and
shall not apply to those vehicles when outside of the
limits of the city, nor shall the gross weight of any
2-axle motor vehicle operating over any street of the city
exceed 40,000 pounds.
(4) Weight limitations shall not apply to vehicles
(including loads) operated by a public utility when
transporting equipment required for emergency repair of
public utility facilities or properties or water wells.
(4.5) A 3-axle or 4-axle vehicle (including when laden)
operated or hired by a municipality within Cook, Lake,
McHenry, Kane, DuPage, or Will county being operated for
the purpose of performing emergency sewer repair that would
be subject to a weight limitation less than 66,000 pounds
under the formula in this subsection (a) shall have a
weight limitation of 66,000 pounds or the vehicle's gross
vehicle weight rating, whichever is less. This paragraph
(4.5) does not apply to vehicles being operated on the
National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, or to
vehicles being operated on bridges or other elevated

HB5643 - 21 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
structures constituting a part of a highway.
(5) Two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry a
total weight of 34,000 pounds each if the overall distance
between the first and last axles of the consecutive sets of
tandem axles is 36 feet or more, notwithstanding the lower
limit resulting from the application of the above formula.
(6) A truck, not in combination and used exclusively
for the collection of rendering materials, may, when laden,
transmit upon the road surface, except when on part of the
National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, the
following maximum weights: 22,000 pounds on a single axle;
40,000 pounds on a tandem axle.
(7) A truck not in combination, equipped with a self
compactor or an industrial roll-off hoist and roll-off
container, used exclusively for garbage, refuse, or
recycling operations, may, when laden, transmit upon the
road surface, except when on part of the National System of
Interstate and Defense Highways, the following maximum
weights: 22,000 pounds on a single axle; 40,000 pounds on a
tandem axle; 40,000 pounds gross weight on a 2-axle
vehicle; 54,000 pounds gross weight on a 3-axle vehicle.
This vehicle is not subject to the bridge formula.
(7.5) A 3-axle rear discharge truck mixer registered as
a Special Hauling Vehicle, used exclusively for the mixing
and transportation of concrete in the plastic state, may,
when laden, transmit upon the road surface, except when on

HB5643 - 22 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
part of the National System of Interstate and Defense
Highways, the following maximum weights: 22,000 pounds on
single axle; 40,000 pounds on a tandem axle; 54,000 pounds
gross weight on a 3-axle vehicle. This vehicle is not
subject to the bridge formula.
(8) Except as provided in paragraph (7.5) of this
subsection (a), tandem axles on a 3-axle truck registered
as a Special Hauling Vehicle, manufactured prior to or in
the model year of 2024 and first registered in Illinois
prior to January 1, 2025, with a distance greater than 72
inches but not more than 96 inches between any series of 2
axles, is allowed a combined weight on the series not to
exceed 36,000 pounds and neither axle of the series may
exceed 20,000 pounds. Any vehicle of this type manufactured
after the model year of 2024 or first registered in
Illinois after December 31, 2024 may not exceed a combined
weight of 34,000 pounds through the series of 2 axles and
neither axle of the series may exceed 20,000 pounds.
A 3-axle combination sewer cleaning jetting vacuum
truck registered as a Special Hauling Vehicle, used
exclusively for the transportation of non-hazardous solid
waste, manufactured before or in the model year of 2014,
first registered in Illinois before January 1, 2015, may,
when laden, transmit upon the road surface, except when on
part of the National System of Interstate and Defense
Highways, the following maximum weights: 22,000 pounds on a

HB5643 - 23 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
single axle; 40,000 pounds on a tandem axle; 54,000 pounds
gross weight on a 3-axle vehicle. This vehicle is not
subject to the bridge formula.
(9) A 4-axle truck mixer registered as a Special
Hauling Vehicle, used exclusively for the mixing and
transportation of concrete in the plastic state, and not
operated on a highway that is part of the National System
of Interstate Highways, is allowed the following maximum
weights: 20,000 pounds on any single axle; 36,000 pounds on
a series of axles greater than 72 inches but not more than
96 inches; and 34,000 pounds on any series of 2 axles
greater than 40 inches but not more than 72 inches. The
gross weight of this vehicle may not exceed the weights
allowed by the bridge formula for 4 axles. The bridge
formula does not apply to any series of 3 axles while the
vehicle is transporting concrete in the plastic state, but
no axle or tandem axle of the series may exceed the maximum
weight permitted under this paragraph (9) of subsection
(a).
(10) Combinations of vehicles, registered as Special
Hauling Vehicles that include a semitrailer manufactured
prior to or in the model year of 2024, and registered in
Illinois prior to January 1, 2025, having 5 axles with a
distance of 42 feet or less between extreme axles, may not
exceed the following maximum weights: 20,000 pounds on a
single axle; 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle; and 72,000

HB5643 - 24 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
pounds gross weight. This combination of vehicles is not
subject to the bridge formula. For all those combinations
of vehicles that include a semitrailer manufactured after
the effective date of P.A. 92-0417, the overall distance
between the first and last axles of the 2 sets of tandems
must be 18 feet 6 inches or more. Any combination of
vehicles that has had its cargo container replaced in its
entirety after December 31, 2024 may not exceed the weights
allowed by the bridge formula.
(11) The maximum weight allowed on a vehicle with
crawler type tracks is 40,000 pounds.
(12) A combination of vehicles, including a tow truck
and a disabled vehicle or disabled combination of vehicles,
that exceeds the weight restriction imposed by this Code,
may be operated on a public highway in this State provided
that neither the disabled vehicle nor any vehicle being
towed nor the tow truck itself shall exceed the weight
limitations permitted under this Chapter. During the
towing operation, neither the tow truck nor the vehicle
combination shall exceed 24,000 pounds on a single rear
axle and 44,000 pounds on a tandem rear axle, provided the
towing vehicle:
(i) is specifically designed as a tow truck having
a gross vehicle weight rating of at least 18,000 pounds
and is equipped with air brakes, provided that air
brakes are required only if the towing vehicle is

HB5643 - 25 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
towing a vehicle, semitrailer, or tractor-trailer
combination that is equipped with air brakes;
(ii) is equipped with flashing, rotating, or
oscillating amber lights, visible for at least 500 feet
in all directions;
(iii) is capable of utilizing the lighting and
braking systems of the disabled vehicle or combination
of vehicles; and
(iv) does not engage in a tow exceeding 20 miles
from the initial point of wreck or disablement. Any
additional movement of the vehicles may occur only upon
issuance of authorization for that movement under the
provisions of Sections 15-301 through 15-318 of this
Code. The towing vehicle, however, may tow any disabled
vehicle to a point where repairs are actually to occur.
This movement shall be valid only on State routes. The
tower must abide by posted bridge weight limits.
(12.5) The vehicle weight limitations in this Section
do not apply to a covered heavy duty tow and recovery
vehicle. The covered heavy duty tow and recovery vehicle
license plate must cover the operating empty weight of the
covered heavy duty tow and recovery vehicle only.
(13) Upon and during a declaration of an emergency
propane supply disaster by the Governor under Section 7 of
the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act:
(i) a truck not in combination, equipped with a

HB5643 - 26 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
cargo tank, used exclusively for the transportation of
propane or liquefied petroleum gas may, when laden,
transmit upon the road surface, except when on part of
the National System of Interstate and Defense
Highways, the following maximum weights: 22,000 pounds
on a single axle; 40,000 pounds on a tandem axle;
40,000 pounds gross weight on a 2-axle vehicle; 54,000
pounds gross weight on a 3-axle vehicle; and
(ii) a truck when in combination with a trailer
equipped with a cargo tank used exclusively for the
transportation of propane or liquefied petroleum gas
may, when laden, transmit upon the road surface, except
when on part of the National System of Interstate and
Defense Highways, the following maximum weights:
22,000 pounds on a single axle; 40,000 pounds on a
tandem axle; 90,000 pounds gross weight on a 5-axle or
6-axle vehicle.
Vehicles operating under this paragraph (13) are not
subject to the bridge formula.
(14) A vehicle or combination of vehicles that uses
natural gas or propane gas as a motor fuel may exceed the
above weight limitations by up to 2,000 pounds, the total
allowance is calculated by an amount that is equal to the
difference between the weight of the vehicle attributable
to the natural gas or propane gas tank and fueling system
carried by the vehicle, and the weight of a comparable

HB5643 - 27 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
diesel tank and fueling system. This paragraph (14) shall
not allow a vehicle to exceed any posted weight limit on a
highway or structure.
(15) An emergency vehicle or fire apparatus that is a
vehicle designed to be used under emergency conditions to
transport personnel and equipment, and used to support the
suppression of fires and mitigation of other hazardous
situations on a Class I highway, may not exceed 86,000
pounds gross weight, or any of the following weight
allowances:
(i) 24,000 pounds on a single steering axle;
(ii) 33,500 pounds on a single drive axle;
(iii) 62,000 pounds on a tandem axle; or
(iv) 52,000 pounds on a tandem rear drive steer
axle.
(16) A bus, motor coach, or recreational vehicle may
carry a total weight of 24,000 pounds on a single axle, but
may not exceed other weight provisions of this Section.
Gross weight limits shall not apply to the combination of
the tow truck and vehicles being towed. The tow truck license
plate must cover the operating empty weight of the tow truck
only. The weight of each vehicle being towed shall be covered
by a valid license plate issued to the owner or operator of the
vehicle being towed and displayed on that vehicle. If no valid
plate issued to the owner or operator of that vehicle is
displayed on that vehicle, or the plate displayed on that

HB5643 - 28 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
vehicle does not cover the weight of the vehicle, the weight of
the vehicle shall be covered by the third tow truck plate
issued to the owner or operator of the tow truck and
temporarily affixed to the vehicle being towed. If a roll-back
carrier is registered and being used as a tow truck, however,
the license plate or plates for the tow truck must cover the
gross vehicle weight, including any load carried on the bed of
the roll-back carrier.
The Department may by rule or regulation prescribe
additional requirements. However, nothing in this Code shall
prohibit a tow truck under instructions of a police officer
from legally clearing a disabled vehicle, that may be in
violation of weight limitations of this Chapter, from the
roadway to the berm or shoulder of the highway. If in the
opinion of the police officer that location is unsafe, the
officer is authorized to have the disabled vehicle towed to the
nearest place of safety.
For the purpose of this subsection, gross vehicle weight
rating, or GVWR, means the value specified by the manufacturer
as the loaded weight of the tow truck.
(b) As used in this Section, "recycling haul" or "recycling
operation" means the hauling of non-hazardous, non-special,
non-putrescible materials, such as paper, glass, cans, or
plastic, for subsequent use in the secondary materials market.
(c) No vehicle or combination of vehicles equipped with
pneumatic tires shall be operated, unladen or with load, upon

HB5643 - 29 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
the highways of this State in violation of the provisions of
any permit issued under the provisions of Sections 15-301
through 15-318 of this Chapter.
(d) No vehicle or combination of vehicles equipped with
other than pneumatic tires may be operated, unladen or with
load, upon the highways of this State when the gross weight on
the road surface through any wheel exceeds 800 pounds per inch
width of tire tread or when the gross weight on the road
surface through any axle exceeds 16,000 pounds.
(e) No person shall operate a vehicle or combination of
vehicles over a bridge or other elevated structure constituting
part of a highway with a gross weight that is greater than the
maximum weight permitted by the Department, when the structure
is sign posted as provided in this Section.
(f) The Department upon request from any local authority
shall, or upon its own initiative may, conduct an investigation
of any bridge or other elevated structure constituting a part
of a highway, and if it finds that the structure cannot with
safety to itself withstand the weight of vehicles otherwise
permissible under this Code the Department shall determine and
declare the maximum weight of vehicles that the structures can
withstand, and shall cause or permit suitable signs stating
maximum weight to be erected and maintained before each end of
the structure. No person shall operate a vehicle or combination
of vehicles over any structure with a gross weight that is
greater than the posted maximum weight.

HB5643 - 30 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(g) Upon the trial of any person charged with a violation
of subsection (e) or (f) of this Section, proof of the
determination of the maximum allowable weight by the Department
and the existence of the signs, constitutes conclusive evidence
of the maximum weight that can be maintained with safety to the
bridge or structure.
(Source: P.A. 99-78, eff. 7-20-15; 99-717, eff. 8-5-16;
100-366, eff. 1-1-18; 100-728, eff. 1-1-19.)
(625 ILCS 5/15-301) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-301)
Sec. 15-301. Permits for excess size and weight.
(a) The Department with respect to highways under its
jurisdiction and local authorities with respect to highways
under their jurisdiction may, in their discretion, upon
application and good cause being shown therefor, issue a
special permit authorizing the applicant to operate or move a
vehicle or combination of vehicles of a size or weight of
vehicle or load exceeding the maximum specified in this Code or
otherwise not in conformity with this Code upon any highway
under the jurisdiction of the party granting such permit and
for the maintenance of which the party is responsible.
Applications and permits other than those in written or printed
form may only be accepted from and issued to the company or
individual making the movement. Except for an application to
move directly across a highway, it shall be the duty of the
applicant to establish in the application that the load to be

HB5643 - 31 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
moved by such vehicle or combination cannot reasonably be
dismantled or disassembled, the reasonableness of which shall
be determined by the Secretary of the Department. For the
purpose of over length movements, more than one object may be
carried side by side as long as the height, width, and weight
laws are not exceeded and the cause for the over length is not
due to multiple objects. For the purpose of over height
movements, more than one object may be carried as long as the
cause for the over height is not due to multiple objects and
the length, width, and weight laws are not exceeded. For the
purpose of an over width movement, more than one object may be
carried as long as the cause for the over width is not due to
multiple objects and length, height, and weight laws are not
exceeded. Except for transporting fluid milk products, no State
or local agency shall authorize the issuance of excess size or
weight permits for vehicles and loads that are divisible and
that can be carried, when divided, within the existing size or
weight maximums specified in this Chapter. Any excess size or
weight permit issued in violation of the provisions of this
Section shall be void at issue and any movement made thereunder
shall not be authorized under the terms of the void permit. In
any prosecution for a violation of this Chapter when the
authorization of an excess size or weight permit is at issue,
it is the burden of the defendant to establish that the permit
was valid because the load to be moved could not reasonably be
dismantled or disassembled, or was otherwise nondivisible.

HB5643 - 32 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(a-1) As used in this Section, "extreme heavy duty tow and
recovery vehicle" means a tow truck manufactured as a unit
having a lifting capacity of not less than 50 tons, and having
either 4 axles and an unladen weight of not more than 80,000
pounds or 5 axles and an unladen weight not more than 90,000
pounds. Notwithstanding otherwise applicable gross and axle
weight limits, an extreme heavy duty tow and recovery vehicle
may lawfully travel to and from the scene of a disablement and
clear a disabled vehicle if the towing service has obtained an
extreme heavy duty tow and recovery permit for the vehicle. The
form and content of the permit shall be determined by the
Department with respect to highways under its jurisdiction and
by local authorities with respect to highways under their
jurisdiction.
(b) The application for any such permit shall: (1) state
whether such permit is requested for a single trip or for
limited continuous operation; (2) (blank); state if the
applicant is an authorized carrier under the Illinois Motor
Carrier of Property Law, if so, his certificate, registration,
or permit number issued by the Illinois Commerce Commission;
(3) specifically describe and identify the vehicle or vehicles
and load to be operated or moved; (4) state the routing
requested, including the points of origin and destination, and
may identify and include a request for routing to the nearest
certified scale in accordance with the Department's rules and
regulations, provided the applicant has approval to travel on

HB5643 - 33 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
local roads; and (5) (blank) state if the vehicles or loads are
being transported for hire. No permits for the movement of a
vehicle or load for hire shall be issued to any applicant who
is required under the Illinois Motor Carrier of Property Law to
have a certificate, registration, or permit and does not have
such certificate, registration, or permit.
(c) The Department or local authority when not inconsistent
with traffic safety is authorized to issue or withhold such
permit at its discretion; or, if such permit is issued at its
discretion to prescribe the route or routes to be traveled, to
limit the number of trips, to establish seasonal or other time
limitations within which the vehicles described may be operated
on the highways indicated, or otherwise to limit or prescribe
conditions of operations of such vehicle or vehicles, when
necessary to assure against undue damage to the road
foundations, surfaces or structures, and may require such
undertaking or other security as may be deemed necessary to
compensate for any injury to any roadway or road structure. The
Department shall maintain a daily record of each permit issued
along with the fee and the stipulated dimensions, weights,
conditions, and restrictions authorized and this record shall
be presumed correct in any case of questions or dispute. The
Department shall install an automatic device for recording
telephone conversations involving permit applications. The
applications received and permits issued by telephone. In
making application by telephone, the Department and applicant

HB5643 - 34 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
waive all objections to the recording of the conversation.
(d) The Department shall, upon application in writing from
any local authority, issue an annual permit authorizing the
local authority to move oversize highway construction,
transportation, utility, and maintenance equipment over roads
under the jurisdiction of the Department. The permit shall be
applicable only to equipment and vehicles owned by or
registered in the name of the local authority, and no fee shall
be charged for the issuance of such permits.
(e) As an exception to subsection (a) of this Section, the
Department and local authorities, with respect to highways
under their respective jurisdictions, in their discretion and
upon application in writing, may issue a special permit for
limited continuous operation, authorizing the applicant to
move loads of agricultural commodities on a 2-axle single
vehicle registered by the Secretary of State with axle loads
not to exceed 35%, on a 3-axle or 4-axle vehicle registered by
the Secretary of State with axle loads not to exceed 20%, and
on a 5-axle vehicle registered by the Secretary of State not to
exceed 10% above those provided in Section 15-111. The total
gross weight of the vehicle, however, may not exceed the
maximum gross weight of the registration class of the vehicle
allowed under Section 3-815 or 3-818 of this Code.
As used in this Section, "agricultural commodities" means:
(1) cultivated plants or agricultural produce grown,
including, but not limited to, corn, soybeans, wheat, oats,

HB5643 - 35 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
grain sorghum, canola, and rice;
(2) livestock, including, but not limited to, hogs,
equine, sheep, and poultry;
(3) ensilage; and
(4) fruits and vegetables.
Permits may be issued for a period not to exceed 40 days
and moves may be made of a distance not to exceed 50 miles from
a field, an on-farm grain storage facility, a warehouse as
defined in the Grain Code, or a livestock management facility
as defined in the Livestock Management Facilities Act over any
highway except the National System of Interstate and Defense
Highways. The operator of the vehicle, however, must abide by
posted bridge and posted highway weight limits. All implements
of husbandry operating under this Section between sunset and
sunrise shall be equipped as prescribed in Section 12-205.1.
(e-1) A special permit shall be issued by the Department
under this Section and shall be required from September 1
through December 31 for a vehicle that exceeds the maximum axle
weight and gross weight limits under Section 15-111 of this
Code or exceeds the vehicle's registered gross weight, provided
that the vehicle's axle weight and gross weight do not exceed
10% above the maximum limits under Section 15-111 of this Code
and does not exceed the vehicle's registered gross weight by
10%. All other restrictions that apply to permits issued under
this Section shall apply during the declared time period and no
fee shall be charged for the issuance of those permits. Permits

HB5643 - 36 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
issued by the Department under this subsection (e-1) are only
valid on federal and State highways under the jurisdiction of
the Department, except interstate highways. With respect to
highways under the jurisdiction of local authorities, the local
authorities may, at their discretion, waive special permit
requirements and set a divisible load weight limit not to
exceed 10% above a vehicle's registered gross weight, provided
that the vehicle's axle weight and gross weight do not exceed
10% above the maximum limits specified in Section 15-111.
Permits issued under this subsection (e-1) shall apply to all
registered vehicles eligible to obtain permits under this
Section, including vehicles used in private or for-hire
movement of divisible load agricultural commodities during the
declared time period.
(f) The form and content of the permit shall be determined
by the Department with respect to highways under its
jurisdiction and by local authorities with respect to highways
under their jurisdiction. Every permit shall be in written form
and carried in the vehicle or combination of vehicles to which
it refers and shall be open to inspection by any police officer
or authorized agent of any authority granting the permit and no
person shall violate any of the terms or conditions of such
special permit. Violation of the terms and conditions of the
permit shall not be deemed a revocation of the permit; however,
any vehicle and load found to be off the route prescribed in
the permit shall be held to be operating without a permit. Any

HB5643 - 37 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
off-route vehicle and load shall be required to obtain a new
permit or permits, as necessary, to authorize the movement back
onto the original permit routing. No rule or regulation, nor
anything herein, shall be construed to authorize any police
officer, court, or authorized agent of any authority granting
the permit to remove the permit from the possession of the
permittee unless the permittee is charged with a fraudulent
permit violation as provided in subsection (i). However, upon
arrest for an offense of violation of permit, operating without
a permit when the vehicle is off route, or any size or weight
offense under this Chapter when the permittee plans to raise
the issuance of the permit as a defense, the permittee, or his
agent, must produce the permit at any court hearing concerning
the alleged offense.
If the permit designates and includes a routing to a
certified scale, the permittee, while en route to the
designated scale, shall be deemed in compliance with the weight
provisions of the permit provided the axle or gross weights do
not exceed any of the permitted limits by more than the
following amounts:
Single axle 2000 pounds
Tandem axle 3000 pounds
Gross 5000 pounds
(g) The Department is authorized to adopt, amend, and make
available to interested persons a policy concerning reasonable
rules, limitations and conditions or provisions of operation

HB5643 - 38 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
upon highways under its jurisdiction in addition to those
contained in this Section for the movement by special permit of
vehicles, combinations, or loads which cannot reasonably be
dismantled or disassembled, including manufactured and modular
home sections and portions thereof. All rules, limitations and
conditions or provisions adopted in the policy shall have due
regard for the safety of the traveling public and the
protection of the highway system and shall have been
promulgated in conformity with the provisions of the Illinois
Administrative Procedure Act. The requirements of the policy
for flagmen and escort vehicles shall be the same for all moves
of comparable size and weight. When escort vehicles are
required, they shall meet the following requirements:
(1) All operators shall be 18 years of age or over and
properly licensed to operate the vehicle.
(2) Vehicles escorting oversized loads more than 12
feet wide must be equipped with a rotating or flashing
amber light mounted on top as specified under Section
12-215.
The Department shall establish reasonable rules and
regulations regarding liability insurance or self insurance
for vehicles with oversized loads promulgated under the
Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Police vehicles may be
required for escort under circumstances as required by rules
and regulations of the Department.
(h) Violation of any rule, limitation or condition or

HB5643 - 39 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
provision of any permit issued in accordance with the
provisions of this Section shall not render the entire permit
null and void but the violator shall be deemed guilty of
violation of permit and guilty of exceeding any size, weight,
or load limitations in excess of those authorized by the
permit. The prescribed route or routes on the permit are not
mere rules, limitations, conditions, or provisions of the
permit, but are also the sole extent of the authorization
granted by the permit. If a vehicle and load are found to be
off the route or routes prescribed by any permit authorizing
movement, the vehicle and load are operating without a permit.
Any off-route movement shall be subject to the size and weight
maximums, under the applicable provisions of this Chapter, as
determined by the type or class highway upon which the vehicle
and load are being operated.
(i) Whenever any vehicle is operated or movement made under
a fraudulent permit, the permit shall be void, and the person,
firm, or corporation to whom such permit was granted, the
driver of such vehicle in addition to the person who issued
such permit and any accessory, shall be guilty of fraud and
either one or all persons may be prosecuted for such violation.
Any person, firm, or corporation committing such violation
shall be guilty of a Class 4 felony and the Department shall
not issue permits to the person, firm, or corporation convicted
of such violation for a period of one year after the date of
conviction. Penalties for violations of this Section shall be

HB5643 - 40 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
in addition to any penalties imposed for violation of other
Sections of this Code.
(j) Whenever any vehicle is operated or movement made in
violation of a permit issued in accordance with this Section,
the person to whom such permit was granted, or the driver of
such vehicle, is guilty of such violation and either, but not
both, persons may be prosecuted for such violation as stated in
this subsection (j). Any person, firm, or corporation convicted
of such violation shall be guilty of a petty offense and shall
be fined, for the first offense, not less than $50 nor more
than $200 and, for the second offense by the same person, firm,
or corporation within a period of one year, not less than $200
nor more than $300 and, for the third offense by the same
person, firm, or corporation within a period of one year after
the date of the first offense, not less than $300 nor more than
$500 and the Department may, in its discretion, not issue
permits to the person, firm, or corporation convicted of a
third offense during a period of one year after the date of
conviction or supervision for such third offense. If any
violation is the cause or contributing cause in a motor vehicle
accident causing damage to property, injury, or death to a
person, the Department may, in its discretion, not issue a
permit to the person, firm, or corporation for a period of one
year after the date of conviction or supervision for the
offense.
(k) Whenever any vehicle is operated on local roads under

HB5643 - 41 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
permits for excess width or length issued by local authorities,
such vehicle may be moved upon a State highway for a distance
not to exceed one-half mile without a permit for the purpose of
crossing the State highway.
(l) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section,
the Department, with respect to highways under its
jurisdiction, and local authorities, with respect to highways
under their jurisdiction, may at their discretion authorize the
movement of a vehicle in violation of any size or weight
requirement, or both, that would not ordinarily be eligible for
a permit, when there is a showing of extreme necessity that the
vehicle and load should be moved without unnecessary delay.
For the purpose of this subsection, showing of extreme
necessity shall be limited to the following: shipments of
livestock, hazardous materials, liquid concrete being hauled
in a mobile cement mixer, or hot asphalt.
(m) Penalties for violations of this Section shall be in
addition to any penalties imposed for violating any other
Section of this Code.
(n) The Department with respect to highways under its
jurisdiction and local authorities with respect to highways
under their jurisdiction, in their discretion and upon
application in writing, may issue a special permit for
continuous limited operation, authorizing the applicant to
operate a tow truck that exceeds the weight limits provided for
in subsection (a) of Section 15-111, provided:

HB5643 - 42 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(1) no rear single axle of the tow truck exceeds 26,000
pounds;
(2) no rear tandem axle of the tow truck exceeds 50,000
pounds;
(2.1) no triple rear axle on a manufactured recovery
unit exceeds 60,000 pounds;
(3) neither the disabled vehicle nor the disabled
combination of vehicles exceed the weight restrictions
imposed by this Chapter 15, or the weight limits imposed
under a permit issued by the Department prior to hookup;
(4) the tow truck prior to hookup does not exceed the
weight restrictions imposed by this Chapter 15;
(5) during the tow operation the tow truck does not
violate any weight restriction sign;
(6) the tow truck is equipped with flashing, rotating,
or oscillating amber lights, visible for at least 500 feet
in all directions;
(7) the tow truck is specifically designed and licensed
as a tow truck;
(8) the tow truck has a gross vehicle weight rating of
sufficient capacity to safely handle the load;
(9) the tow truck is equipped with air brakes;
(10) the tow truck is capable of utilizing the lighting
and braking systems of the disabled vehicle or combination
of vehicles;
(11) the tow commences at the initial point of wreck or

HB5643 - 43 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
disablement and terminates at a point where the repairs are
actually to occur;
(12) the permit issued to the tow truck is carried in
the tow truck and exhibited on demand by a police officer;
and
(13) the movement shall be valid only on State routes
approved by the Department.
(o) (Blank).
(p) In determining whether a load may be reasonably
dismantled or disassembled for the purpose of subsection (a),
the Department shall consider whether there is a significant
negative impact on the condition of the pavement and structures
along the proposed route, whether the load or vehicle as
proposed causes a safety hazard to the traveling public,
whether dismantling or disassembling the load promotes or
stifles economic development, and whether the proposed route
travels less than 5 miles. A load is not required to be
dismantled or disassembled for the purposes of subsection (a)
if the Secretary of the Department determines there will be no
significant negative impact to pavement or structures along the
proposed route, the proposed load or vehicle causes no safety
hazard to the traveling public, dismantling or disassembling
the load does not promote economic development, and the
proposed route travels less than 5 miles. The Department may
promulgate rules for the purpose of establishing the
divisibility of a load pursuant to subsection (a). Any load

HB5643 - 44 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
determined by the Secretary to be nondivisible shall otherwise
comply with the existing size or weight maximums specified in
this Chapter.
(Source: P.A. 100-70, eff. 8-11-17; 100-728, eff. 1-1-19;
100-830, eff. 1-1-19; 100-863, eff. 8-14-18; 100-1090, eff.
1-1-19; 101-81, eff. 7-12-19; 101-547, eff. 1-1-20.)
(625 ILCS 5/15-307) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-307)
Sec. 15-307. Fees for Overweight-Gross Loads. Fees for
special permits to move vehicles, combinations of vehicles and
loads with overweight-gross loads shall be paid at the flat
rate fees established in this Section for weights in excess of
legal gross weights, by the applicant to the Department.
(a) With respect to fees for overweight-gross loads listed
in this Section and for overweight-axle loads listed in Section
15-306, one fee only shall be charged, whichever is the
greater, but not for both.
(b) In lieu of the fees stated in this Section and Section
15-306, with respect to combinations of vehicles consisting of
a 3-axle truck tractor with a tandem axle composed of 2
consecutive axles drawing a semitrailer, or other vehicle
approved by the Department, equipped with a tandem axle
composed of 3 consecutive axles, weighing over 80,000 pounds
but not more than 88,000 pounds gross weight, the fees shall be
at the following rates:
Distance Rate

HB5643 - 45 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
For the first 45 miles $10
From 45 miles to 90 miles 12.50
From 90 miles to 135 miles 15.00
From 135 miles to 180 miles 17.50
From 180 miles to 225 miles 20.00
For each additional 45 miles or part
thereof in excess of the rate for
225 miles, an additional 2.50
For such combinations weighing over 88,000 pounds but not
more than 100,000 pounds gross weight, the fees shall be at the
following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles 15
From 45 miles to 90 miles 25
From 90 miles to 135 miles 35
From 135 miles to 180 miles 45
From 180 miles to 225 miles 55
For each additional 45 miles or part
thereof in excess of the rate for
225 miles, an additional 10
For such combination weighing over 100,000 pounds but not
more than 110,000 pounds gross weight, the fees shall be at the
following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $20
From 45 miles to 90 miles 32.50

HB5643 - 46 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
From 90 miles to 135 miles 45
From 135 miles to 180 miles 57.50
From 180 miles to 225 miles 70
For each additional 45 miles or part
thereof in excess of the rate for
225 miles an additional 12.50
For such combinations weighing over 110,000 pounds but not
more than 120,000 pounds gross weight, the fees shall be at the
following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $30
From 46 miles to 90 miles 55
From 90 miles to 135 miles 80
From 135 miles to 180 miles 105
From 180 miles to 225 miles 130
For each additional 45 miles or part
thereof in excess of the rate
for 225 miles an additional 25
Payment of overweight fees for the above combinations also
shall include fees for overwidth dimensions of 4 feet or less,
overheight and overlength. Any overwidth in excess of 4 feet
shall be charged an additional fee of $15.

HB5643 - 47 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(c) In lieu of the fees stated in this Section and Section
15-306 of this Chapter, with respect to combinations of
vehicles consisting of a 3-axle truck tractor with a tandem
axle composed of 2 consecutive axles drawing a semitrailer, or
other vehicle approved by the Department, equipped with a
tandem axle composed of 2 consecutive axles, weighing over
80,000 pounds but not more than 88,000 pounds gross weight, the
fees shall be at the following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $20
From 45 miles to 90 miles 32.50
From 90 miles to 135 miles 45
From 135 miles to 180 miles 57.50
From 180 miles to 225 miles 70
For each additional 45 60 miles or part
thereof in excess of the rate for
225 miles an additional 12.50
For such combination weighing over 88,000 pounds but not
more than 100,000 pounds gross weight, the fees shall be at the
following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $30
From 46 miles to 90 miles 55
From 90 miles to 135 miles 80
From 135 miles to 180 miles 105
From 180 miles to 225 miles 130

HB5643 - 48 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
For each additional 45 miles or part
thereof in excess of the rate for
225 miles an additional 25
Payment of overweight fees for the above combinations also
shall include fees for overwidth dimension of 4 feet or less,
overheight and overlength. Any overwidth in excess of 4 feet
shall be charged an additional overwidth fee of $15.
(d) In lieu of the fees stated in this Section and in
Section 15-306 of this Chapter, with respect to a 3 (or more)
axle mobile crane or water well-drilling vehicle consisting of
a single axle and a tandem axle or 2 tandem axle groups
composed of 2 consecutive axles each, with a distance of
extreme axles not less than 18 feet, weighing not more than
60,000 pounds gross with no single axle weighing more than
21,000 pounds, or any tandem axle group to exceed 40,000
pounds, the fees shall be at the following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $12.50
For each additional 45 miles or portion thereof 9.00
For such vehicles weighing over 60,000 pounds but not more
than 68,000 pounds with no single axle weighing more than
21,000 pounds and no tandem axle group exceeding 48,000 pounds,
the fees shall be at the following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $20
For each additional 45 miles or portion thereof 12.50

HB5643 - 49 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
Payment of overweight fees for the above vehicle shall
include overwidth dimension of 4 feet or less, overheight and
overlength. Any overwidth in excess of 4 feet shall be charged
an additional overwidth fee of $15.
(e) In lieu of the fees stated in this Section and in
Section 15-306 of this Chapter, with respect to a 4 (or more)
axle mobile crane or water well drilling vehicle consisting of
2 sets of tandem axles composed of 2 or more consecutive axles
each with a distance between extreme axles of not less than 23
feet weighing not more than 72,000 pounds with axle weights on
one set of tandem axles not more than 34,000 pounds, and weight
in the other set of tandem axles not to exceed 40,000 pounds,
the fees shall be at the following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $15
For each additional 45 miles or portion thereof 10
For such vehicles weighing over 72,000 pounds but not more
than 76,000 pounds with axle weights on either set of tandem
axles not more than 44,000 pounds, the fees shall be at the
following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $20
For each additional 45 miles or portion thereof 12.50

HB5643 - 50 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
Payment of overweight fees for the above vehicle shall
include overwidth dimension of 4 feet or less, overheight and
overlength. Any overwidth in excess of 4 feet shall be charged
an additional fee of $15.
(f) In lieu of fees stated in this Section and in Section
15-306 of this Chapter, with respect to a two axle mobile crane
or water well-drilling vehicle consisting of 2 single axles
weighing not more than 48,000 pounds with no single axle
weighing more than 25,000 pounds, the fees shall be at the
following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $15
For each additional 45 miles or portion thereof 10
For such vehicles weighing over 48,000 pounds but not more
than 54,000 pounds with no single axle weighing more than
28,000 pounds, the fees shall be at the following rates:
Distance Rate
For the first 45 miles $20
For each additional 45 miles or portion thereof 12.50
Payment of overweight fees for the above vehicle shall
include overwidth dimension of 4 feet or less, overheight and
overlength. Any overwidth in excess of 4 feet shall be charged
an additional overwidth fee of $15.
(g) Fees for special permits to move vehicles, combinations
of vehicles, and loads with overweight gross loads not included
in the fee categories shall be paid by the applicant to the

HB5643 - 51 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
Department at the rate of $50 plus 3.5 cents per ton-mile in
excess of legal weight.
With respect to fees for overweight gross loads not
included in the schedules specified in paragraphs (a) through
(e) of Section 15-307 and for overweight axle loads listed in
Section 15-306, one fee only shall be charged, whichever is the
greater, but not both. An additional fee in accordance with the
schedule set forth in Section 15-305 shall be charged for each
overdimension.
(h) Fees for special permits for continuous limited
operation authorizing the applicant to operate vehicles that
exceed the weight limits provided for in subsection (a) of
Section 15-111.
All single axles excluding the steer axle and axles within
a tandem are limited to 24,000 pounds or less unless otherwise
noted in this subsection (h). Loads up to 12 feet wide and 110
feet in length shall be included within this permit. Fees shall
be $250 for a quarterly and $1,000 for an annual permit. Front
tag axle and double tandem trailers are not eligible.
The following configurations qualify for the quarterly and
annual permits:
(1) 3 or more axles, total gross weight of 68,000
pounds or less, front tandem or axle 21,000 pounds or less,
rear tandem 48,000 pounds or less on 2 or 3 axles, 25,000
pounds or less on single axle;
(2) 4 or more axles, total gross weight of 76,000

HB5643 - 52 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
pounds or less, front tandem 44,000 pounds or less on 2
axles, front axle 20,000 pounds or less, rear tandem 44,000
pounds or less on 2 axles and 23,000 pounds or less on
single axle or 48,000 pounds or less on 3 axles, 25,000
pounds or less on single axle;
(3) 5 or more axles, total gross weight of 100,000
pounds or less, front tandem 48,000 pounds or less on 2
axles, front axle 20,000 pounds or less, 25,000 pounds or
less on single axle, rear tandem 48,000 pounds or less on 2
axles, 25,000 pounds or less on single axle;
(4) 6 or more axles, total gross weight of 120,000
pounds or less, front tandem 48,000 pounds or less on 2
axles, front axle 20,000 pounds or less, single axle 25,000
pounds or less, or rear tandem 60,000 pounds or less on 3
axles, 21,000 pounds or less on single axles within a
tandem.
(Source: P.A. 96-34, eff. 1-1-10; 97-201, eff. 1-1-12.)
(625 ILCS 5/15-311) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 15-311)
Sec. 15-311. Fees for Engineering Inspections or Field
Investigations. Engineering inspections or field
investigations will be made by the Department and the following
fees shall be paid by the applicant: for normal field
investigations, or for special engineering investigations
requiring assessment of work to be done on the highway and
final inspection, $120 40 per hour.

HB5643 - 53 - LRB101 16609 HEP 65993 b
(Source: P.A. 84-566.)
Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect upon
becoming law.