Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010 (ACT)
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010 (repealed)
SL2010-4
made under the
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Act 2009
Republication No 7
Effective: 10 February 2014
Republication date: 10 February 2014
As repealed by A2013‑52 s 4 (1)
Unauthorised version prepared by ACT Parliamentary Counsel’s Office
About this republication
The republished law
This is a republication of the Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010 (repealed), made under the Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Act 2009, including any amendment made under the Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 (Editorial changes).It also includes any commencement, amendment, repeal or expiry affecting this republished law to 10 February 2014.
The legislation history and amendment history of the republished law are set out in endnotes 3 and 4.
Kinds of republications
The Parliamentary Counsel’s Office prepares 2 kinds of republications of ACT laws (see the ACT legislation register at type="disc">
authorised republications to which the Legislation Act 2001 applies
unauthorised republications.
The status of this republication appears on the bottom of each page.
Editorial changes
The Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 authorises the Parliamentary Counsel to make editorial amendments and other changes of a formal nature when preparing a law for republication. Editorial changes do not change the effect of the law, but have effect as if they had been made by an Act commencing on the republication date (see Legislation Act 2001, s 115 and s 117). The changes are made if the Parliamentary Counsel considers they are desirable to bring the law into line, or more closely into line, with current legislative drafting practice.
This republication does not include amendments made under part 11.3 (see endnote 1).
Uncommenced provisions and amendments
If a provision of the republished law has not commenced, the symbol U appears immediately before the provision heading. Any uncommenced amendments that affect this republished law are accessible on the ACT legislation register ( For more information, see the home page for this law on the register.
Modifications
If a provision of the republished law is affected by a current modification, the symbol M appears immediately before the provision heading. The text of the modifying provision appears in the endnotes. For the legal status of modifications, see the Legislation Act 2001, section 95.
Penalties
At the republication date, the value of a penalty unit for an offence against this law is $140 for an individual and $700 for a corporation (see Legislation Act 2001, s 133).
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010 (repealed)
made under the
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Act 2009
Contents
Page
Part 1 Preliminary
Division 1.1 Introduction
1 Name of regulation 2
3 Dictionary 2
4 Notes 2
5Offences against regulation—application of Criminal Code etc 3
6 Object of regulation 3
7 Application of regulation 3
Division 1.2 Important concepts
8 Meaning of special purpose vehicle—Act, s 7 (2), def special purpose vehicle, par (b) and (c) 4
9 Meaning of restricted access vehicle 4
Part 2 Mass, dimension, loading, etc for heavy vehicles
Division 2.1 Mass, loading and other requirements
10 Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles 6
11 Mass restrictions on vulnerable roads 6
Division 2.2 Class 1 vehicles
12 Meaning of class 1 vehicle 8
13 Requirements for class 1 vehicles, pilot vehicles and escort vehicles 9
14 Class 1 notices 9
15 Class 1 notices—contents 11
16 Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 1 notice 12
17 Class 1 permits 13
18 Class 1 permits—contents 15
19 Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 1 permit 16
Division 2.3 Class 2 vehicles
20 Meaning of class 2 vehicle 16
21 Class 2 notices 17
22 Class 2 notices—contents 18
23 Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 2 notice 19
24 Class 2 permits 19
25 Class 2 permits—contents 20
26 Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 2 permit 21
Division 2.4 Class 3 vehicles
27 Meaning of class 3 vehicle 21
28 Class 3 notices 22
29 Class 3 notices—contents 23
30 Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 3 notice 23
31 Class 3 permits 24
32 Class 3 permits—contents 25
33 Conditions on class 3 notices and class 3 permits 25
34 Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 3 permit 27
35 Class 3 notices and class 3 permits affecting other States 28
Division 2.5 Towing restrictions for certain combinations
36 Meaning of certain combination—div 2.5 28
37 Meaning of exempt combination—div 2.5 29
38 Offences—use certain combinations 30
39 Exempt combination notices 30
40 Exempt combination notices—contents 31
41 Exempt combination permits 31
42 Exempt combination permits—contents 31
Division 2.6 Higher mass limits for eligible vehicles
43 Meaning of eligible vehicle 32
44 Meaning of higher mass limit 33
45 Meaning of approved route—div 2.6 33
46 When eligible vehicles may operate at higher mass limits 33
47 Higher mass limit notices for eligible vehicles 34
48 Higher mass limit permits for eligible vehicles 35
Division 2.7 Pilot vehicles and oversize vehicles
49 Requirements for pilot vehicle drivers 35
50 Requirements for oversize vehicle operators 36
51 Offences—oversize vehicle or combination fail to comply with requirements 36
52 Offences—pilot vehicle or escort vehicle fail to comply with requirements 38
Part 3 Road trains
53 Meaning of gross road train mass—pt 3 39
54 Meaning of gross road train mass rating—pt 3 39
55 Offence—drive road train heavier than gross road train mass rating 40
56 Length of road trains 40
57 Offence—drive road train with trailer not tracking 41
58 Offence—drive road train with tow couplings heavier than capacity 41
Part 4 Mass, dimension, loading, etc for all vehicles
Division 4.1 Mass and loading requirements
59 Special mass and loading limits 43
60 Lower limits for multiple mass requirements 43
61 Loading requirements 44
Division 4.2 Checking and measuring procedures
62 Exercise of direction powers by authorised officers 45
63 Calculating wheel loads with measuring instruments 47
64 Calculating axle loads with measuring instruments 47
65 Calculating total mass 47
66 Mass if mass heavier than instrument’s verified mass 48
Part 5 Miscellaneous
67 Offence—fail to carry permit 49
68 Exemptions in emergencies 49
69Disapplication of Legislation Act, s 47 (6) 50
Schedule 1 Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles 52
Part 1.1 Mass limits 52
Division 1.1.1 Mass limits for vehicles and combinations 52
1.1 Mass limits for vehicles 52
1.2 Mass limits for combinations 52
1.3 Higher mass limits for eligible vehicles 53
Division 1.1.2 Mass limits for tyres, wheels and axles 55
1.4 Exclusion of certain eligible vehicles—div 1.1.2 55
1.5 Meaning of complying bus—div 1.1.2 55
1.6 Meaning of ultra-low floor bus—div 1.1.2 57
1.7 Declaring buses to be complying buses 57
1.8 Mass limits for tyres, wheels and axles—manufacturer’s limits 58
1.9 Mass limits for axles 58
1.10 Mass limit for articulated ultra-low floor buses 60
1.11 Mass limits for retractable axles 61
1.12 Total mass on axles 61
Division 1.1.3 Mass limits for axle spacing 62
1.13 Exclusion of certain eligible vehicles—div 1.1.3 62
1.14 Meaning of axle spacing—div 1.1.3 62
1.15 Mass limits for axle spacing—vehicles up to 42.5t 63
1.16 Mass limits for axle spacing—B-doubles 66
1.17 Mass limits for axle spacing—road trains 67
1.18 Axle spacing rules 67
Part 1.2 Size and projection of loads 68
1.19 Size limits 68
1.20 Size limits—vehicles carrying vehicles on 2 or more decks 69
1.21 Front and side projections 70
1.22 Rear projections 71
1.23 Dangerous projections 72
Part 1.3 Couplings 73
1.24 Trailers 73
Schedule 2 Oversize and overmass vehicles 74
Part 2.1 Preliminary 74
2.1 Definitions—sch 2 74
2.2 Compliance with mass limits where 2 or more limits apply 74
Part 2.2 All vehicles travelling under class 1 notices 76
2.3 Mass limits for tyre width—single axles 76
2.4 Mass limits for tyre width—multiple axles 77
2.5 Dimension limits 77
2.6 Dimensions of unloaded oversize vehicles to be minimised 80
2.7 Warning devices for oversize vehicles—width > 2.5m or length > 25m 80
2.8 Warning devices for oversize vehicles—width ≤ 2.5m, 22m < length ≤ 25m 81
2.9 Warning devices for oversize vehicles—width > 3m 82
2.10 Warning devices for oversize vehicles—load projects > 150mm, projection < 500mm thick 83
2.11 Additional warning devices at night 84
2.12 Headlights 84
2.13 Travel restrictions at night 85
2.14 Low visibility conditions 85
2.15 Minimum following distances 86
2.16 Assessing routes for possible disruption or damage 86
Part 2.3 Load-carrying vehicles travelling under class 1 notices 88
2.17 Mass limits for axles and axle groups—load-carrying vehicles 88
2.18 Mass limits for axles and axle groups—load-carrying vehicles towing vehicles 88
2.19 Minimising width 90
2.20 Width limits—load-carrying vehicles 90
2.21 Carrying goods in addition to large indivisible items 90
2.22 Towing of low-loader dollies by unladen low-loaders 91
Part 2.4 Special purpose vehicles travelling under class 1 notices 92
2.23 Mass limits for axles and axle groups—special purpose vehicles 92
2.24 Mass limits for tandem axle groups—special purpose vehicles 92
2.25 Mass limits for tri axle groups—special purpose vehicles 93
2.26 Total mass limits—special purpose vehicles 94
2.27 Side lights for travel at night 95
2.28 Markings—special purpose vehicles 96
2.29 Prohibition on towing other vehicles 97
Part 2.5 Agricultural vehicles and combinations travelling under class 1 notices 98
2.30 Mass limits—agricultural vehicles and combinations 98
2.31 Dimension limits—agricultural vehicles and combinations 98
2.32 Warning devices—agricultural vehicles and combinations 99
2.33 Pilot vehicle requirements—agricultural vehicles and combinations 100
2.34 Agricultural vehicles and combinations not to use freeways 101
2.35 Agricultural implements not to carry loads 101
2.36 Speed limits for agricultural implements without brakes 101
2.37 Exemption from requirement for rear vision mirrors 102
Part 2.6 Pilot and escort vehicles 103
2.38 Requirements for pilot vehicles 103
2.39 Requirements for escort vehicles 103
2.40 Headlights on pilot and escort vehicles 104
2.41 Loads on pilot and escort vehicles 104
2.42 Position of pilot vehicles 105
2.43 Communication between drivers 105
Part 2.7 Warning lights 106
2.44 Meaning of warning light 106
2.45 Visibility of warning lights 106
2.46 Use of warning lights 107
Part 2.8 Warning signs 108
Division 2.8.1 Oversize vehicles and pilot vehicles 108
2.47 Meaning of warning sign 108
2.48 Materials for warning signs 109
2.49 Maintaining warning signs 109
2.50 Use of warning signs 109
Division 2.8.2 Oversize vehicles 109
2.51 Size of warning signs—oversize vehicles 109
2.52 Face of warning signs—oversize vehicles 110
2.53 Mounting of warning signs—oversize vehicles 111
Division 2.8.3 Pilot vehicles 111
2.54 Size and shape of warning signs—pilot vehicles 111
2.55 Faces of warning signs—pilot vehicles 111
2.56 Mounting of warning signs—pilot vehicles 112
Dictionary114
Endnotes
1 About the endnotes 127
2 Abbreviation key 127
3 Legislation history 128
4 Amendment history 130
5 Earlier republications 132
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010 (repealed)
made under the
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Act 2009
Part 1Preliminary
Division 1.1 Introduction
Name of regulation
This regulation is the Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010.
Dictionary
The dictionary at the end of this regulation is part of this regulation.
Note 1The dictionary at the end of this regulation defines certain terms used in this regulation, and includes references (signpost definitions) to other terms defined elsewhere.
For example, the signpost definition ‘road train—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.’ means that the term ‘road train’ is defined in that dictionary and the definition applies to this regulation.
Note 2A definition in the dictionary (including a signpost definition) applies to the entire regulation unless the definition, or another provision of the regulation, provides otherwise or the contrary intention otherwise appears (see Legislation Act, s 155 and s 156 (1)).
Notes
A note included in this regulation is explanatory and is not part of this regulation.
NoteSee the Legislation Act, s 127 (1), (4) and (5) for the legal status of notes.
Offences against regulation—application of Criminal Code etc
Other legislation applies in relation to offences against this regulation.
Note 1Criminal Code
The Criminal Code, ch 2 applies to all offences against this regulation (see Code, pt 2.1).
The chapter sets out the general principles of criminal responsibility (including burdens of proof and general defences), and defines terms used for offences to which the Code applies (eg conduct, intention, recklessness and strict liability).
Note 2Penalty units
The Legislation Act, s 133 deals with the meaning of offence penalties that are expressed in penalty units.
Object of regulation
(1)The object of this regulation is to regulate the following:
(a)the mass, dimensions and loading of vehicles and combinations;
(b)the conditions for access to roads of vehicles and combinations that are too large or too heavy for general road access;
(c)the conditions under which oversize or overmass vehicles and combinations exempted from normal dimension or mass limits may travel on roads and road related areas.
(2)The Assembly intends that the object of this regulation will be achieved in the context of nationally consistent road transport laws, particularly in the context of nationally consistent compliance and enforcement laws, having regard to regional differences.
Application of regulation
This regulation applies only on roads and road related areas.
Division 1.2 Important concepts
Meaning of special purpose vehicle—Act, s 7 (2), def special purpose vehicle, par (b) and (c)
(1)The following vehicles are prescribed:
(a)a concrete pump;
(b)a fire truck.
(2)The following vehicles are exempted:
(a)a tow truck;
(b)an agricultural vehicle.
Meaning of restricted access vehicle
In this regulation:
restricted access vehicle means a heavy vehicle or heavy combination that, together with its load (if any), exceeds 1 or more of the following:
(a)a mass limit mentioned in this regulation;
(b)1 or more of the following dimension limits:
(i)a width of 2.5m;
(ii)a height of 4.3m;
(iii)a length of—
(A)for a single motor vehicle—12.5m; or
(B)for a combination—19m;
(iv)another dimension limit mentioned in—
(A)this regulation; or
(B)the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000.
Part 2Mass, dimension, loading, etc for heavy vehicles
Division 2.1 Mass, loading and other requirements
Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles
(1)The following vehicles and loads must comply with the requirements in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles):
(a)a heavy vehicle together with its load (if any);
(b)a heavy combination together with its load (if any).
(2)However, subsection (1) does not apply to the following:
(a)a class 1 vehicle as far as a class 1 notice or a class 1 permit exempts the vehicle from a requirement of schedule 1;
(b)a class 3 vehicle as far as a class 3 notice or a class 3 permit exempts the vehicle from a requirement of schedule 1;
(c)an eligible vehicle as far as the eligible vehicle is permitted to operate at a higher mass limit under section 46 (When eligible vehicles may operate at higher mass limits).
Mass restrictions on vulnerable roads
(1)The road transport authority may, by displaying a notice (a prohibition notice) on or near a vulnerable road, prohibit the driving of a stated kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination on the vulnerable road.
(2)The road transport authority may prohibit the driving of a kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination on a vulnerable road under subsection (1) only if satisfied the driving of the kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination is likely to damage the road.
(3)A prohibition notice for a vulnerable road must state—
(a)that driving a stated kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination on the road is prohibited if—
(i)the axle load for an axle of the vehicle exceeds the stated axle load for an axle of the kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination; or
(ii)the sum of the axle loads for a group of axles for the vehicle exceeds the stated sum of axle loads for a group of axles for the kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination; and
(b)the period of the prohibition.
(4)An axle load, or sum of axle loads for a group of axles, for a kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination stated in a prohibition notice must not exceed a limit on an axle load, or a sum of axle loads, for the kind of heavy vehicle or heavy combination mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles).
NoteMass limits for axle loads are mentioned in sch 1, s 1.3, div 1.1.2 and div 1.1.3.
(5)A mass restriction imposed by a prohibition notice under this section is taken to be imposed by this section.
Note 1Under the Act, s 509, a regulation may impose mass, dimension or loading restrictions on the use of vehicles on roads or road related areas.
Note 2A penalty may be imposed if a vehicle breaches a mass requirement (see Act, div 2.2.4).
(6)In this section:
vulnerable road means a road or road related area, or part of a road or road related area, that the road transport authority is satisfied is—
(a)newly formed, constructed or repaired; or
(b)damaged by flood, submergence, subsidence or otherwise; or
(c)otherwise vulnerable to damage.
Division 2.2 Class 1 vehicles
Meaning of class 1 vehicle
(1)In this regulation:
class 1 vehicle means a restricted access vehicle that—
(a)is one of the following kinds of vehicle or combination:
(i)a special purpose vehicle;
(ii)an agricultural vehicle;
(iii)a vehicle or combination, including a low-loader and load platform combination, that is designed to carry a large indivisible item or is carrying a large indivisible item; and
(b)is—
(i)oversize; or
(ii)overmass; and
(c)is not one of the following:
(i)a B-double;
(ii)a road train;
(iii)a vehicle or combination that is carrying a freight container designed for multi-modal transport.
(2)In this section:
multi-modal transport means transport by road and 1 or more of sea, rail or air.
Requirements for class 1 vehicles, pilot vehicles and escort vehicles
The following vehicles must comply with the requirements in schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles):
(a)a class 1 vehicle;
NoteSpecial purpose vehicles may be exempt from complying with the dimension limits in sch 2, table 2.5 while standing and operating (see s 14 (1) (a) (iii)).
(b)a pilot vehicle or escort vehicle accompanying a class 1 vehicle.
Class 1 notices
(1)The road transport authority may, by notice (a class 1 notice)—
(a)exempt all class 1 vehicles, or a stated kind of class 1 vehicle—
(i)from a mass or dimension requirement mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), other than a requirement about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit; or
NoteMass and dimension requirements about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit are mentioned in sch 1, div 1.1.1 and s 1.8.
(ii)from a dimension limit mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000; or
NoteDimension limits are mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, s 163 and sch 1.
(iii)for special purpose vehicles—from the dimension limits in schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles), table 2.5 while the vehicle is standing and operating; or
NoteClass 1 vehicles must otherwise comply with sch 2 (see s 13).
(b)declare—
(i)areas in which all class 1 vehicles, or a stated kind of class 1 vehicle, may operate; or
(ii)routes on which all class 1 vehicles, or a stated kind of class 1 vehicle, may operate; or
(iii)for agricultural vehicles or combinations—categories of areas or routes, including declaring an area or route to be a category 1, 2 or 3 area for schedule 2, table 2.31.
(2)A class 1 notice may be conditional.
(3)A class 1 notice is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
(4)In this section:
standing and operating, for a special purpose vehicle, means the vehicle is being used for its designed purpose, and the use requires the vehicle to stand still or to move slightly between close positions.
Class 1 notices—contents
(1)A class 1 notice must state the following:
(a)that the notice applies to—
(i)all class 1 vehicles; or
(ii)stated kinds of class 1 vehicles;
(b)the areas or routes to which the notice applies;
Example—areas
urban areas
Note 1Further restrictions may apply if the notice applies to oversize vehicles or combinations travelling in urban areas (eg sch 2, s 2.13).
Note 2An example is part of the regulation, is not exhaustive and may extend, but does not limit, the meaning of the provision in which it appears (see Legislation Act, s 126 and s 132).
(c)the provisions of this regulation or the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 from which exemption is given;
(d)the conditions (if any) on the notice.
NoteA class 1 notice may include a condition that 1 or more pilot vehicles or escort vehicles must accompany a class 1 vehicle while the vehicle is travelling.
(2)Without limiting subsection (1) (d), a class 1 notice made under section 14 (1) (a) or (b) must include the conditions mentioned in schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles) that apply to the vehicles to which the notice applies.
(3)The notice may incorporate the conditions mentioned in subsection (2) by reference.
(4)For a class 1 vehicle other than an agricultural vehicle or agricultural combination, a class 1 notice may include a height limit as a condition.
(5)If the notice includes a height limit as a condition, the height limit must be at least 4.3m, but not more than 4.6m
Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 1 notice
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a class 1 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 1 notice; and
(c)the person drives the vehicle in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of a class 1 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 1 notice; and
(c)the vehicle is driven in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Class 1 permits
(1)The road transport authority may, on application by a person, issue the person a permit (a class 1 permit) exempting a stated class 1 vehicle—
(a)from a mass or dimension requirement mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), other than a requirement about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit; or
Note 1Mass and dimension requirements about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit are mentioned in sch 1, div 1.1.1 and s 1.8.
Note 2This provision is subject to s (2).
(b)from a mass or dimension limit mentioned in—
(i)schedule 1; or
(ii)the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000; or
NoteDimension limits are mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, s 163 and sch 1.
(c)if the vehicle is a mobile crane—from the prohibition against towing in schedule 2, section 2.29 (Prohibition on towing other vehicles).
Note 1For par (c), the permit is conditional (see s (5)).
Note 2If a form is approved under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 225 for this provision, the form must be used.
Note 3A fee may be determined under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 96 for this provision.
(2)However, the road transport authority may also issue a class 1 permit exempting a combination consisting of 2 or more prime movers or hauling units from compliance with a GCM limit for an individual prime mover or hauling unit if the sum of the GCMs for all the individual prime movers or hauling units does not exceed the sum of the GCM limits.
NoteA person or vehicle is exempt from a dimension limit or any other requirement of the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 if the person or vehicle is exempted from the limit or requirement under this regulation (see Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, s 163).
(3)Also, the road transport authority may, on application by a person, issue the person a class 1 permit to operate a stated class 1 vehicle in a stated area, or on a stated route, not included in a class 1 notice.
(4)A class 1 permit may be conditional.
(5)A class 1 permit issued under subsection (1) (c) is subject to the following conditions:
(a)the mobile crane must not tow anything other than a trailer;
(b)the mobile crane must not have more than 5 axles;
(c)the combined length of the mobile crane and trailer combination (the crane combination) must not be longer than 19m;
(d)a component of the mobile crane, including a tow coupling, must not exceed the manufacturer’s limit;
(e)the swept path of the crane combination must not be wider than the swept path of the mobile crane without the trailer;
(f)the trailer in the crane combination must comply with the mass limits in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), section 1.9 and section 1.15;
(g)a load on the trailer must not include anything other than items associated with the operation of the mobile crane.
NoteIt is an offence to drive a vehicle or combination that is subject to a permit without carrying a copy of the permit (see s 67).
Class 1 permits—contents
(1)A class 1 permit must state the following:
(a)the name and address of the person to whom the permit is issued;
(b)the vehicle to which the permit applies, including the registration number (if any);
(c)for a combination—the registration number (if any) of the front prime mover to which the permit applies;
(d)the areas or routes to which the permit applies;
(e)the provisions of this regulation or the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 from which exemption is given;
(f)the conditions (if any) on the permit;
NoteA class 1 permit may include a condition that 1 or more pilot vehicles or escort vehicles must accompany a class 1 vehicle while the vehicle is travelling.
(g)when the permit ends.
(2)Without limiting subsection (1) (d), a class 1 permit must include the conditions mentioned in schedule 2, part 2.7 (Warning lights) and part 2.8 (Warning signs) that apply to the vehicle to which the permit applies.
(3)The permit may incorporate the conditions mentioned in subsection (2) by reference.
Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 1 permit
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a class 1 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 1 permit; and
(c)the person drives the vehicle in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of a class 1 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 1 permit; and
(c)the vehicle is driven in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Division 2.3 Class 2 vehicles
Meaning of class 2 vehicle
(1)In this regulation:
class 2 vehicle means a restricted access vehicle that—
(a)complies with the mass and dimension limits in—
(i)schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles); and
(ii)the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000; and
(b)is one of the following:
(i)a B-double;
(ii)a road train;
(iii)a controlled access bus not more than 14.5m long;
(iv)a combination carrying vehicles on 2 or more decks that, together with its load, is—
(A)higher than 4.3m but not higher than 4.6m; or
(B)longer than 19m;
(v)a vehicle or a combination that is—
(A)higher than 4.3m but not higher than 4.6m; and
(B)built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses.
NoteThe axle load limits in sch 1 apply to class 2 vehicles.
(2)In this section:
controlled access bus means a bus that is longer than 12.5m, other than a bus that is—
(a)an articulated vehicle; or
(b)an articulated bus.
Class 2 notices
(1)The road transport authority may, by notice (a class 2 notice), declare—
(a)areas in which all class 2 vehicles, or a stated kind of class 2 vehicle, may operate; or
(b)routes on which all class 2 vehicles, or a stated kind of class 2 vehicle, may operate.
NoteA route may be described using a map.
(2)A class 2 notice may be conditional.
(3)A class 2 notice is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
Class 2 notices—contents
(1)A class 2 notice must state the following:
(a)that the notice applies to—
(i)all class 2 vehicles; or
(ii)stated kinds of class 2 vehicles;
(b)the areas or routes to which the notice applies;
(c)the conditions (if any) on the notice.
(2)A class 2 notice may include conditions about any of the following:
(a)the areas or routes to which the notice applies;
(b)if a route includes a bridge, culvert or causeway (a route crossing)—
(i)which part or parts of the route crossing may be used; and
(ii)the speed limit for the route crossing; and
(iii)whether the route crossing must be free of other traffic before it is used;
(c)when class 2 vehicles, or a stated kind of class 2 vehicle, must not operate in the area or on the route;
(d)for a combination—axle spacings on the combination;
(e)for a road train—the total mass limit of the road train;
(f)the speed limit in the areas or on the routes.
Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 2 notice
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a class 2 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a class 2 notice; and
(c)the person drives the vehicle in contravention of the notice.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of a class 2 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a class 2 notice; and
(c)the vehicle is driven in contravention of the notice.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Class 2 permits
(1)The road transport authority may, on application by a person, issue the person a permit (a class 2 permit) to operate a stated class 2 vehicle in a stated area, or on a stated route, not included in a class 2 notice.
Note 1If a form is approved under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 225 for this provision, the form must be used.
Note 2A fee may be determined under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 96 for this provision.
(2)A class 2 permit may be conditional.
NoteIt is an offence to drive a vehicle or combination that is subject to a permit without carrying a copy of the permit (see s 67).
Class 2 permits—contents
(1)A class 2 permit must state the following:
(a)the name and address of the person to whom the permit is issued;
(b)the vehicle to which the permit applies, including the registration number (if any);
(c)for a combination—the registration number (if any) of the front prime mover to which the permit applies;
(d)the areas or routes to which the permit applies;
(e)the conditions (if any) on the permit;
(f)when the permit ends.
(2)A class 2 permit may include conditions about any of the following:
(a)the areas or routes to which the permit applies;
(b)if a route includes a bridge, culvert or causeway (a route crossing)—
(i)which part or parts of the route crossing may be used; and
(ii)the speed limit for the route crossing; and
(iii)whether the route crossing must be free of other traffic before it is used;
(c)when the vehicle must not be used;
(d)for a combination—axle spacings on the combination;
(e)for a road train—the total mass limit of the road train;
(f)the speed limit in the areas or on the routes.
Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 2 permit
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a class 2 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a class 2 permit; and
(c)the person drives the vehicle in contravention of the permit.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of a class 2 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a class 2 permit; and
(c)the vehicle is driven in contravention of the permit.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Division 2.4 Class 3 vehicles
Meaning of class 3 vehicle
In this regulation:
class 3 vehicle means a restricted access vehicle that is not—
(a)a class 1 vehicle; or
(b)a class 2 vehicle.
Class 3 notices
(1)The road transport authority may, by notice (a class 3 notice)—
(a)exempt a stated kind of class 3 vehicle from—
(i)a mass or dimension requirement mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), other than a requirement about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit; or
NoteMass and dimension requirements about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit are mentioned in sch 1, div 1.1.1 and s 1.8.
(ii)a dimension limit mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000; or
Note 1Dimension limits are mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, s 163 and sch 1.
Note 2A person or vehicle is exempt from a dimension limit or any other requirement of the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 if the person or vehicle is exempted from the limit or requirement under this regulation (see Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, s 163).
(b)declare—
(i)areas in which a stated kind of class 3 vehicle may operate; or
(ii)routes on which a stated kind of class 3 vehicle may operate.
(2)A class 3 notice may be conditional.
NoteSection 33 sets out conditions to which some class 3 notices may be subject.
(3)A class 3 notice is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
Class 3 notices—contents
A class 3 notice must state the following:
(a)the stated kind of class 3 vehicle to which the notice applies;
(b)the areas or routes to which the notice applies;
(c)the provisions of schedule 1 or the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 from which exemption is given;
(d)the conditions (if any) on the notice.
NoteSection 33 sets out conditions to which some class 3 notices may be subject.
Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 3 notice
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a class 3 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 3 notice; and
(c)the person drives the vehicle in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of a class 3 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 3 notice; and
(c)the vehicle is driven in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Class 3 permits
(1)The road transport authority may, on application by a person, issue the person a permit (a class 3 permit)—
(a)exempting a stated class 3 vehicle from—
(i)a mass or dimension requirement mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), other than a requirement about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit; or
NoteMass and dimension requirements about a GVM, GCM or manufacturer’s limit are mentioned in sch 1, div 1.1.1 and s 1.8.
(ii)a dimension limit mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000; or
NoteDimension limits are mentioned in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, s 163 and sch 1.
(b)to operate a stated class 3 vehicle in a stated area, or on a stated route, not included in a class 3 notice.
Note 1If a form is approved under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 225 for this provision, the form must be used.
Note 2A fee may be determined under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 96 for this provision.
(2)A class 3 permit may be conditional.
Note 1Section 33 sets out conditions to which some class 3 permits may be subject.
Note 2It is an offence to drive a vehicle or combination that is subject to a permit without carrying a copy of the permit (see s 67).
Class 3 permits—contents
A class 3 permit must state the following:
(a)the name and address of the person to whom the permit is issued;
(b)the vehicle to which the permit applies, including the registration number (if any);
(c)for a combination—the registration number (if any) of the front prime mover to which the permit applies;
(d)the areas or routes to which the permit applies;
(e)the provisions of this regulation or the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 from which exemption is given;
(f)the conditions (if any) on the permit;
NoteSection 33 sets out conditions to which some class 3 permits may be subject.
(g)when the permit ends.
Conditions on class 3 notices and class 3 permits
(1)This section applies to a class 3 notice or a class 3 permit, unless—
(a)for a class 3 vehicle travelling under a class 3 notice or a class 3 permit—
(i)the travel under the notice or permit—
(A)is for the operation of a particular facility; or
(B)is mainly on roads which service the facility; and
(ii)either—
(A)the notice or permit is not likely to affect road transport to, from or within another State; or
(B)the corresponding road transport authority of a State likely to be affected by the notice or permit has reached agreement on the conditions of the notice or permit under section 35 (1) (b); or
(b)for a B-double or a road train travelling under a class 3 notice or a class 3 permit—
(i)a trailer forming part of the B-double or road train is carrying 1 or more large indivisible items; and
(ii)the carriage of more than 1 large indivisible items does not cause the B-double or road train, together with its load, to exceed a dimension limit mentioned in schedule 1 or the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000 that would not have been exceeded by the carriage of only 1 of the large indivisible items; and
(iii)the B-double or road train, together with its load, would comply with the mass and dimension limits in schedule 1 if the B-double or road train was not carrying the large indivisible items.
(2)A condition on a class 3 notice or class 3 permit must provide for a vehicle or combination operating under the notice or permit to be configured and loaded so that—
(a)the mass on each single axle and axle group does not exceed by more than 10% a limit mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles) for the single axle or axle group; and
NoteMass limits for single axles and axle groups are in sch 1, pt 1.1.
(b)a dimension of the vehicle or combination does not exceed by more than 10% a dimension limit mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles) or the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000.
NoteDimension limits are in sch 1, pt 1.2 and the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, sch 1.
(3)However, if each individual vehicle that makes up a combination, together with its load (if any), complies with the mass and dimension limits mentioned in schedule 1 and the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, a condition of a class 3 notice or class 3 permit may provide for a greater total length limit or greater total mass limit, or both, for the combination than the limit provided in the schedule or the regulation.
(4)To remove any doubt, this section does not limit the conditions that the road transport authority may make for a class 3 notice or class 3 permit.
Offences—drive or operate vehicle in contravention of class 3 permit
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a class 3 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 3 permit; and
(c)the person drives the vehicle in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of a class 3 vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle is subject to a condition in a class 3 permit; and
(c)the vehicle is driven in contravention of the condition.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Class 3 notices and class 3 permits affecting other States
(1)If a class 3 notice or class 3 permit is likely to affect road transport to, from or within another State, the road transport authority must—
(a)consult with the corresponding road transport authority of the other State; and
(b)issue the notice or issue the permit only on conditions agreed with the corresponding road transport authority.
(2)If a class 3 notice or class 3 permit is to remain in force for more than 6 months under a scheme, the road transport authority must give details of the scheme, in writing, to—
(a)the corresponding road transport authority of each State; and
(b)the National Transport Commission.
(3)The details of the notice or permit must be given not later than 28 days after the notice was issued or the permit was issued.
Division 2.5 Towing restrictions for certain combinations
Meaning of certain combination—div 2.5
In this division:
certain combination—
(a)means a heavy combination that, together with its load, is—
(i)an articulated vehicle towing another vehicle; or
(ii)a vehicle other than an articulated vehicle towing 2 or more other vehicles; but
(b)does not include a heavy combination that is a restricted access vehicle.
Meaning of exempt combination—div 2.5
In this division:
exempt combination means a certain combination that—
(a)complies with the mass and dimension requirements in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles); and
(b)is 1 of the following:
(i)a tractor-harvester-cutting head trailer combination;
(ii)a tractor with 2 or more implements attached, if the implements are normally used as one unit for agricultural operations;
(iii)a tractor and implement combination towing a fuel trailer or a laser tower;
(iv)an articulated low-loader consisting of a prime mover towing a converter dolly and a semitrailer;
(v)a B-double, or road train, that complies with the vehicle standards in the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, schedule 1 (Vehicle standards).
Offences—use certain combinations
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a certain combination; and
(b)the person drives or stands the certain combination on a road or road related area.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the owner of a certain combination; and
(b)the certain combination is driven or stood on a road or road related area.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)Subsections (1) and (2) do not apply if the certain combination is—
(a)an exempt combination; or
(b)being used in accordance with—
(i)an exempt combination notice; or
(ii)an exempt combination permit.
(4)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Exempt combination notices
(1)The road transport authority may, by notice (an exempt combination notice), exempt certain combinations for section 38 (3) (b) (i).
(2)An exempt combination notice may be conditional.
(3)An exempt combination notice is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
Exempt combination notices—contents
An exempt combination notice must state the following:
(a)the certain combinations to which the notice applies;
(b)the conditions (if any) on the notice.
Exempt combination permits
(1)The road transport authority may, on application by a person, issue the person a permit (an exempt combination permit) exempting a stated certain combination for section 38 (3) (b) (ii).
Note 1If a form is approved under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 225 for this provision, the form must be used.
Note 2A fee may be determined under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 96 for this provision.
(2)An exempt combination permit may be conditional.
NoteIt is an offence to drive a vehicle or combination that is subject to a permit without carrying a copy of the permit (see s 67).
Exempt combination permits—contents
An exempt combination permit must state the following:
(a)the name and address of the person to whom the permit is issued;
(b)the certain combination to which the permit applies;
(c)the registration number (if any) of the front prime mover of the combination;
(d)the conditions (if any) on the permit;
(e)when the permit ends.
Division 2.6 Higher mass limits for eligible vehicles
Meaning of eligible vehicle
In this regulation:
eligible vehicle means a heavy vehicle or heavy combination that, together with its load (if any), is any of the following:
(a)a rigid truck fitted with a tandem axle group if—
(i)it is not towing another vehicle; or
(ii)it is towing a trailer that is fitted with a single axle group, tandem axle group or tri axle group towards the rear of the trailer, where both the truck and trailer are designed to carry vehicles on 2 or more overlapping decks;
(b)a heavy combination if—
(i)the prime mover is fitted with a single axle group or tandem axle group; and
(ii)the semitrailer is fitted with a single axle group, tandem axle group or tri axle group;
(c)a bus fitted with a single drive axle group or tandem axle group;
(d)a truck or bus with a six-tyred tandem axle group at the rear;
(e)a B-double if—
(i)the prime mover is fitted with a tandem drive axle group; and
(ii)the trailer is, or the trailers are, fitted with either a tandem axle group or tri axle group;
(f)a road train not longer than 36.5m long if—
(i)the prime mover is fitted with a tandem drive axle group; and
(ii)the semitrailer is fitted with either a tandem axle group or tri axle group; and
(iii)the converter dolly is fitted with a tandem axle group.
Meaning of higher mass limit
In this regulation:
higher mass limit, for an eligible vehicle, means a higher mass limit mentioned in schedule 1, section 1.3 for the eligible vehicle.
Meaning of approved route—div 2.6
In this division:
approved route means a route stated in a notice on which an eligible vehicle may operate at a higher mass limit.
When eligible vehicles may operate at higher mass limits
(1)A person may only operate an eligible vehicle on a road at a higher mass limit if—
(a)the vehicle has road-friendly suspension certified under the Vehicle Standards Bulletin (VSB) 11: Certification of Road‑Friendly Suspension Systems, issued by the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, as in force from time to time; and
NoteThe Legislation Act, s 47 (6) is disapplied for Vehicle Standards Bulletin (VSB) 11: Certification of Road‑Friendly Suspension Systems (see s 69).
(b)if the axle group on the vehicle is a tri axle group—
(i)the vehicle is accredited under a Mass Management Accreditation Scheme; and
(ii)the operator of the vehicle is an accredited operator under the scheme; and
(iii)a label, approved by a corresponding road transport authority, indicating that the vehicle is operating under the scheme is prominently displayed on the vehicle in a position approved under the scheme; and
(c)the vehicle is operating on an approved route.
(2)In this section:
Mass Management Accreditation Scheme means a scheme for mass management approved by a corresponding road transport authority.
Higher mass limit notices for eligible vehicles
(1)The road transport authority may, by notice—
(a)state routes on which eligible vehicles may operate at a higher mass limit; and
(b)make conditions that eligible vehicles must comply with when operating at a higher mass limit.
(2)A notice is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
Higher mass limit permits for eligible vehicles
(1)The road transport authority may, on application by a person, issue the person a permit to operate a stated eligible vehicle at a higher mass limit on a route other than an approved route.
Note 1If a form is approved under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 225 for this provision, the form must be used.
Note 2A fee may be determined under the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, s 96 for this provision.
(2)A permit may be conditional.
NoteIt is an offence to drive a vehicle or combination that is subject to a permit without carrying a copy of the permit (see s 67).
Division 2.7 Pilot vehicles and oversize vehicles
Requirements for pilot vehicle drivers
(1)This section applies if a pilot vehicle is to accompany an oversize vehicle or combination under a notice or permit.
(2)The operator of the oversize vehicle or combination must give the driver of the pilot vehicle a copy of each of the following that apply to the oversize vehicle or combination:
(a)a class 1 notice;
(b)a class 1 permit;
(c)a class 2 notice;
(d)a class 2 permit;
(e)a class 3 notice;
(f)a class 3 permit;
(g)an exempt combination notice;
(h)an exempt combination permit.
(3)The driver of the pilot vehicle must not accompany the oversize vehicle or combination unless the driver is satisfied that the oversize vehicle or combination complies with any applicable notice or permit.
Requirements for oversize vehicle operators
The operator of an oversize vehicle or combination may only allow a pilot vehicle or an escort vehicle to accompany the oversize vehicle or combination if the operator is satisfied that the pilot vehicle or escort vehicle complies with the requirements of schedule 2, part 2.6 (Pilot and escort vehicles).
Offences—oversize vehicle or combination fail to comply with requirements
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a pilot vehicle; and
(b)the pilot vehicle is accompanying an oversize vehicle or combination; and
(c)the oversize vehicle or combination contravenes a condition of 1 of the following that applies to the oversize vehicle—
(i)a class 1 notice;
(ii)a class 1 permit;
(iii)a class 2 notice;
(iv)a class 2 permit;
(v)a class 3 notice;
(vi)a class 3 permit;
(vii)an exempt combination notice;
(viii)an exempt combination permit.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of an oversize vehicle or combination; and
(b)a pilot vehicle is accompanying the oversize vehicle or combination; and
(c)the oversize vehicle or combination contravenes a condition of 1 of the following that applies to the oversize vehicle or combination—
(i)a class 1 notice;
(ii)a class 1 permit;
(iii)a class 2 notice;
(iv)a class 2 permit;
(v)a class 3 notice;
(vi)a class 3 permit;
(vii)an exempt combination notice;
(viii)an exempt combination permit.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Offences—pilot vehicle or escort vehicle fail to comply with requirements
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a pilot vehicle or escort vehicle; and
(b)the pilot vehicle or escort vehicle is accompanying an oversize vehicle or combination; and
(c)the pilot vehicle or escort vehicle fails to comply with a requirement of schedule 2, part 2.6 (Pilot and escort vehicles).
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the operator of an oversize vehicle or combination; and
(b)a pilot vehicle or escort vehicle is accompanying the oversize vehicle or combination; and
(c)the pilot vehicle or escort vehicle contravenes a requirement of schedule 2, part 2.6 (Pilot and escort vehicles).
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(3)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Part 3Road trains
Meaning of gross road train mass—pt 3
In this part:
gross road train mass, of a road train, means the sum of the maximum loaded masses of the motor vehicle and each trailer of the road train.
Meaning of gross road train mass rating—pt 3
(1)In this part:
gross road train mass rating, for the hauling unit of a road train means—
(a)for a road train with a gross road train mass of not more than 42.5t—the GCM of the hauling unit; or
(b)in any other case—the lighter of the following:
(i)the GCM of the hauling unit;
(ii)the gross road train mass determined by the road transport authority;
(iii)the capacity of the tow coupling, or fifth wheel coupling of the hauling unit, worked out under the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, schedule 1, part 1.13 (Mechanical connections between vehicles);
(iv)the maximum gross mass of the drawing vehicle mentioned in a 3rd edition ADR.
(2)A determination for subsection (1), definition of gross road train mass rating, paragraph (b) (ii), is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
(3)In this section:
3rd edition ADR—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, schedule 1, section 1.15.
NoteThe Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, sch 1, s 1.15, defines 3rd edition ADR as a national standard incorporated in the document described as the Australian Design Rules for Motor Vehicles and Trailers, Third Edition published by the Federal Office of Road Safety of the then Commonwealth Department of Transport and Regional Development.
Offence—drive road train heavier than gross road train mass rating
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a road train; and
(b)the person drives the road train on a road or road related area; and
(c)the gross road train mass of the road train is heavier than the gross road train mass rating for the hauling unit of the road train.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
Length of road trains
(1)A person must not drive a road train on a road or road related area if the road train is longer than—
(a)53.5m; or
(b)if a determination under subsection (2) applies to the road train—the determined length.
NoteA penalty may be imposed if a road train breaches a dimension requirement (see Act, div 2.2.4).
(2)For subsection (1), the road transport authority may determine a length less than 53.5m as the maximum length for a road train—
(a)with stated configurations; or
(b)when in a stated area.
(3)A determination is a notifiable instrument.
NoteA notifiable instrument must be notified under the Legislation Act.
Offence—drive road train with trailer not tracking
(1)A person commits an offence if—
(a)the person is the driver of a road train; and
(b)the person drives the road train on a road or road related area; and
(c)a trailer of the road train—
(i)is tracking in the path of the hauling unit of the road train; and
(ii)veers wider than 100mm on either side of the path of the hauling unit when the road train is travelling in a straight line on a level, smooth surface.
Maximum penalty: 20 penalty units.
(2)An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.
agricultural combination means a combination that includes at least 1 agricultural vehicle.
agricultural implement means a vehicle without its own automotive power, built to perform agricultural tasks.
Examples
irrigating equipment, augers, conveyors, empty field bins, harvester fronts, harvest bins, machinery fully carried on the three-point linkage of a tractor
NoteAn example is part of the regulation, is not exhaustive and may extend, but does not limit, the meaning of the provision in which it appears (see Legislation Act, s 126 and s 132).
agricultural machine means a machine with its own automotive power, built to perform agricultural tasks.
Examples
tractors, harvesters
NoteAn example is part of the regulation, is not exhaustive and may extend, but does not limit, the meaning of the provision in which it appears (see Legislation Act, s 126 and s 132).
agricultural vehicle means an agricultural implement or agricultural machine.
approved route, for division 2.6 (Higher mass limits for eligible vehicles)—see section 45.
articulated bus—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
articulated vehicle—see the Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
Australian Design Rule—see ADR.
axle—
(a)for this regulation generally—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary; and
(b)for schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles)—see schedule 2, section 2.1.
axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
axle load, for an axle of a vehicle, means the total load, worked out under section 64 (Calculating axle loads with measuring instruments), transmitted to the road by all wheels on the axle.
axle spacing, for schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), division 1.1.3 (Mass limits for axle spacing)—see schedule 1, section 1.14.
B-double—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
bus—see the Road Transport (Public Passenger Services) Act 2001, section 10A.
centre-line—
(a)of an axle, means—
(i)for an axle with 1 shaft—a line parallel to the length of the axle and passing through its centre; and
(ii)for an axle with 2 shafts—a line in the vertical plane that passes through the centre of both shafts and through the centres of the wheels on the shafts; and
(b)of an axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
certain combination, for division 2.5 (Towing restrictions for certain combinations)—see section 36.
class 1 notice—see section 14 (1).
class 1 permit—see section 17 (1).
class 1 vehicle—see section 12.
class 2 notice—see section 21 (1).
class 2 permit—see section 24 (1).
class 2 vehicle—see section 20.
class 3 notice—see section 28 (1).
class 3 permit—see section 31 (1).
class 3 vehicle—see section 27.
complying bus, for schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), division 1.1.2 (Mass limits for tyres, wheels and axles)—see schedule 1, section 1.5.
converter dolly—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
dimension limit includes a limit under this regulation that applies to a load or projection on a vehicle or combination.
distance, between 2 parallel lines, for schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles)—see schedule 2, section 2.1.
dog trailer—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
drawbar—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
drive, for a vehicle or combination, includes stand.
eligible vehicle—see section 43.
escort vehicle means a vehicle being used—
(a)to transport a police officer or other person directing traffic; and
(b)to warn other road users of the presence of an oversize vehicle or combination.
essential service—see the Utilities Act 2000, section 149A.
exempt combination, for division 2.5 (Towing restrictions for certain combinations)—see section 37.
exempt combination notice—see section 39 (1).
exempt combination permit—see section 41 (1).
fifth wheel coupling—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary
gross road train mass, for part 3 (Road trains)—see section 53.
gross road train mass rating, for part 3 (Road trains)—see section 54.
ground contact width means—
(a)for an axle—the distance in metres between the outermost point of ground contact of the outside tyres on each end of the axle; and
(b)for an axle group—the greatest ground contact width of all the axles in the group.
Ground contact width for an axle
hauling unit, for a combination, means a motor vehicle that is part of a combination.
higher mass limit, for an eligible vehicle—see section 44.
jinker means an axle or axle group that is—
(a)built to support part of a load; and
(b)connected to the vehicle in front of it by a pole or cable or the load itself (if any).
large indivisible item means an item that—
(a)cannot be divided without extreme effort, expense or risk of damage to the item; and
(b)cannot be carried on a vehicle or combination without exceeding a mass or dimension limit mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles).
load-carrying, for a vehicle or combination, means a vehicle or combination that is carrying, or is built to carry, a load.
loaded mass means the mass of a vehicle and any load carried by the vehicle.
load-sharing suspension system means an axle group suspension system that—
(a)is built to divide the load between the tyres on the group so that no tyre carries a mass more than 10% heavier than the mass the tyre would carry if the load were divided equally; and
(b)has effective damping characteristics on all axles of the group.
low-beam, for a headlight or front fog light fitted to a vehicle, for schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles)—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
low-loader means a gooseneck semitrailer with a loading deck not more than 1m above the ground.
low-loader dolly means a mass-distributing device that—
(a)is usually coupled between a prime mover and a low-loader; and
(b)consists of a gooseneck rigid frame; and
(c)does not directly carry any goods on itself; and
(d)is equipped with 1 or more axles, a kingpin and a fifth wheel coupling.
measuring instrument—see the National Measurement Act 1960 (Cwlth), section 3.
National Transport Commission—see the Road Transport (General) Act 1999, dictionary.
notice means a notice made under this regulation.
overmass, for a vehicle or combination, means that the vehicle or combination, together with its load (if any), is heavier than a mass limit mentioned in schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles).
overmass vehicle or combination, for schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles)—see schedule 2, section 2.1.
oversize, for a vehicle or combination, means that the vehicle or combination, together with its load (if any), exceeds a dimension limit mentioned in—
(a)this regulation; or
(b)the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000.
oversize or overmass vehicle or combination, for schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles)—see schedule 2, section 2.1.
oversize vehicle or combination, for schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles)—see schedule 2, section 2.1.
permit means a permit issued under this regulation.
pig trailer means a trailer that—
(a)has 1 axle group, or a single axle, near the middle of its load‑carrying surface; and
(b)is connected to the towing vehicle by a drawbar.
Pig trailer
pilot vehicle means a vehicle being used to warn other road users of the presence of an oversize vehicle or combination.
prime mover—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
quad axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
rear overhang line—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
registration number, for a registrable vehicle—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
NoteA vehicle’s registration number is the number on the vehicle’s numberplates.
restricted access vehicle—see section 9.
retractable axle—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, schedule 1, section 1.183.
road train—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
semitrailer—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
single axle—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
single axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
single motor vehicle means a motor vehicle that is not part of a combination.
special purpose vehicle—
(a)means a vehicle if the primary purpose for which the vehicle was built, or permanently modified, was not the carriage of goods or passengers; and
(b)includes—
(i)a concrete pump; and
(ii)a fire truck; and
(c)does not include—
(i)a tow truck; or
(ii)an agricultural vehicle.
steerable axle—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
tandem axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
total mass, for a vehicle or combination, means—
(a)for a load-carrying vehicle or combination—the loaded mass of the vehicle or combination; and
(b)for a non load-carrying vehicle or combination—the mass of the vehicle or combination together with—
(i)any goods, passengers or drivers in or on the vehicle or combination; and
(ii)any fuel, water, lubricants or readily removable equipment carried in or on the vehicle or combination that is required for normal operation of the vehicle or combination; and
(iii)any personal items used by a driver of the vehicle or combination; and
(iv)anything that is normally removed from the vehicle or combination when the vehicle or combination is not in use.
tow coupling means a mechanical assembly by means of which a flexible connection is made between 2 vehicles in a combination.
tow truck—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
tractor—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
tri axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
twinsteer axle group—see the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Regulation 2000, dictionary.
tyre width means—
(a)for a radial ply tyre—the number of millimetres marked on the tyre in the position labelled ‘Section width in mm’; and
Position of section width marking on radial ply tyre
(b)for a bias-type tyre—the number of millimetres equal to 25.4 times the number marked on the tyre in the position labelled ‘Width code in inches’; and
Position of width code marking on diagonal or bias-type tyre
(c)if no section width or width code is marked on a tyre—the tyre width in millimetres worked out by measuring the width of the part of the tyre that normally comes into contact with the road surface.
ultra-low floor bus, for schedule 1 (Mass and loading requirements for heavy vehicles), division 1.1.2 (Mass limits for tyres, wheels and axles)—see schedule 1, section 1.6.
vehicle includes—
(a)the vehicle’s equipment; and
(b)anything the vehicle is carrying that is essential for operating the vehicle.
warning light—see schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles), section 2.44.
warning sign—see schedule 2 (Oversize and overmass vehicles), section 2.47.
wheel includes a group of wheels mounted on an axle on one side of the longitudinal centre-line of a vehicle.
wheel load means the mass transmitted to the road by a wheel.
Endnotes
About the endnotes
Amending and modifying laws are annotated in the legislation history and the amendment history. Current modifications are not included in the republished law but are set out in the endnotes.
Not all editorial amendments made under the Legislation Act 2001, part 11.3 are annotated in the amendment history. Full details of any amendments can be obtained from the Parliamentary Counsel’s Office.
Uncommenced amending laws are not included in the republished law. The details of these laws are underlined in the legislation history. Uncommenced expiries are underlined in the legislation history and amendment history.
If all the provisions of the law have been renumbered, a table of renumbered provisions gives details of previous and current numbering.
The endnotes also include a table of earlier republications.
Abbreviation key
A = Act NI = Notifiable instrument AF = Approved form o = order am = amended om = omitted/repealed amdt = amendment ord = ordinance AR = Assembly resolution orig = original ch = chapter par = paragraph/subparagraph CN = Commencement notice pres = present def = definition prev = previous DI = Disallowable instrument (prev...) = previously dict = dictionary pt = part disallowed = disallowed by the Legislative r = rule/subrule Assembly reloc = relocated div = division renum = renumbered exp = expires/expired R[X] = Republication No Gaz = gazette RI = reissue hdg = heading s = section/subsection IA = Interpretation Act 1967 sch = schedule ins = inserted/added sdiv = subdivision LA = Legislation Act 2001 SL = Subordinate law LR = legislation register sub = substituted LRA = Legislation (Republication) Act 1996 underlining = whole or part not commenced mod = modified/modification or to be expired
Legislation history
Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Regulation 2010 SL2010-4
notified LR 1 March 2010
s 1, s 2 commenced 1 March 2010
remainder commenced 3 March 2010 (s 2 and see Road Transport (Mass, Dimensions and Loading) Act 2009 A2009-22, s 2 and LA s 79)as amended by
Road Transport Legislation Amendment Regulation 2010 (No 3) SL2010-28 pt 4
notified LR 30 June 2010
s 1, s 2 commenced 30 June 2010 ( LA s 75 (1))
pt 4 commenced 1 July 2010 (s 2 (2))Road Transport (Vehicle Registration) Amendment Regulation 2011 (No 1) SL2011-28 sch 1 pt 1.2
notified LR 31 October 2011
s 1, s 2 commenced 31 October 2011 (LA s 75 (1))
sch 1 pt 1.2 commenced 1 November 2011 (s 2)Road Transport Legislation Amendment Regulation 2012 (No 1) SL2012-44 pt 4
notified LR 19 December 2012
s 1, s 2 commenced 19 December 2012 (LA s 75 (1))
pt 4 commenced 20 December 2012 (s 2)Statute Law Amendment Act 2013 A2013-19 sch 3 pt 3.41
notified LR 24 May 2013
s 1, s 2 commenced 24 May 2013 (LA s 75 (1))sch 3 pt 3.41 commenced 14 June 2013 (s 2)
as repealed by
Heavy Vehicle National Law (Consequential Amendments) Act 2013 A2013-52 s 4
notified LR 9 December 2013
s 1, s 2 commenced 9 December 2013 (LA s 75 (1))s 4 commenced 10 February 2014 (s 2 and see Heavy Vehicle National Law (ACT) Act 2013 A2013-51, s 2 (1) and CN2014-2)
Amendment history
Commencement
s 2om LA s 89 (4)
Mass, dimension, loading, etc for heavy vehicles
pt 2 hdgam SL2010‑28 s 44
Road trains
pt 3 hdgam SL2010‑28 s 44
Meaning of gross road train mass rating—pt 3
s 54am SL2010‑28 s 45; ss renum R2 LA; SL2011‑28 amdt 1.2
Mass, dimension, loading, etc for all vehicles
pt 4 hdgam SL2010‑28 s 46
Calculating wheel loads with measuring instruments
s 63am SL2010‑28 s 47
Mass if mass heavier than instrument’s verified mass
s 66am SL2010‑28 s 48, s 49
Miscellaneous
pt 5 hdgam SL2010‑28 s 50
Tracked vehicle—Act, dict, def vehicle, par (b)
s 68Ains SL2012-44 s 6
om A2013‑19 amdt 3.426
Legislation amended—sch 3
s 70om LA s 89 (3)
Transitional
pt 10 hdgexp 3 March 2011 (s 303 (LA s 88 declaration applies))
Meaning of commencement day—pt 10
s 300exp 3 March 2011 (s 303 (LA s 88 declaration applies))
Transitional—permits
s 301exp 3 March 2011 (s 303 (LA s 88 declaration applies))
Transitional effect—Legislation Act, s 88
s 302exp 3 March 2011 (s 303 (LA s 88 declaration applies))
Expiry—pt 10
s 303exp 3 March 2011 (s 303 (LA s 88 declaration applies))
Consequential amendments
sch 3om LA s 89 (3)
Dictionary
dictam A2013‑19 amdt 3.427
def National Transport Commission om A2013‑19 amdt 3.428
def measuring instrument sub SL2010‑28 s 51
Earlier republications
Some earlier republications were not numbered. The number in column 1 refers to the publication order.
Since 12 September 2001 every authorised republication has been published in electronic pdf format on the ACT legislation register. A selection of authorised republications have also been published in printed format. These republications are marked with an asterisk (*) in column 1. Electronic and printed versions of an authorised republication are identical.
Republication No and date Effective Last amendment made by Republication for R1
3 Mar 20103 Mar 2010–
30 June 2010not amended new regulation R2*
1 July 20101 July 2010–
3 Mar 2011SL2010‑28 amendments by SL2010‑28 R3
4 Mar 20114 Mar 2011–
31 Oct 2011SL2010‑28 expiry of transitional provisions (pt 10) R4
1 Nov 20111 Nov 2011–
19 Dec 2012SL2011-28 amendments by SL2011-28 R5
20 Dec 201220 Dec 2012–
13 June 2013SL2012-44 amendments by SL2012-44 R6
14 June 201314 June 2013–
9 Feb 2014A2013-19 amendments by A2013-19
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