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Over dimensional load permits

Find out when a permit is required for loads that cross railways or tramways and where load height, width and length exceed the allowable dimensions in metres.

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When is a permit required

Loads that cross railways or tramways in Victoria and exceed dimensions prescribed under the Transport (Compliance and Miscellaneous) Act 1983 require a permit.

Over dimensional load (ODL) permits contain conditions that users must follow to ensure the safe movement of vehicles, freight and large loads over railways and tramways in Victoria.

Maximum loads by height, width and length

Loads that cross railways or tramways and exceed the following dimensions require a permit.

Maximum allowable Railway Tramway
Height 4.9 metres* 4.3 metres
Width 5.0 metres 3.0 metres
Length 26.0 metres 26.0 metres

There is no weight limit for loads travelling across railways or tramways unless specified by a National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) permit. To apply for an NHVR oversize/overmass permit, visit nhvr.gov.au(opens in a new window).

For further information regarding over dimensional routes, visit the VicRoads heavy vehicle webpage(opens in a new window).

The Victorian Gazette for overdimensional vehicles crossing tracks can be found here.

Applying for an over dimensional load permit

To apply for an Over Dimensional Load Permit, please complete the application form below.

Over Dimensional Load Permit Application PDF 264.27 KB (opens in a new window)

Applications for a permit and payment by credit card can be made on the VicRoads website(opens in a new window). You should allow a minimum of 15 business days between lodging your application and your planned move.

Class 1 applicants need to reference their NHVR permit or the relevant Gazette notice.

You are encouraged to nominate the most direct route to your destination with the least impact on amenity.

You are limited to one configuration per application. Applications for multiple configurations will not be accepted and you will be asked to reapply.

Depending on the track manager, your load and route, the duration of each permits validity can range from 1 day to 12 months.

In most cases, a permit can be issued based on the information you supply. However, if an inspection is required, fees apply.

In some instances, you may be asked to deal directly with a track manager such as V/Line or ARTC. Depending on your load, you may also be invoiced directly by a track manager. You must ensure that any additional track manager approvals are carried with you whilst travelling.

If rail safety is required at the proposed crossing, the management of rail traffic during your move is your responsibility to arrange, including any associated costs.

You may use any accredited third-party rail safeworking companies for this activity.

You can check the progress of your permit via email at odlpermit@roads.vic.gov.au.

Permit fees and penalties

From 1 July 2020, in accordance with the Monetary Units Act 2004(opens in a new window) the value of a fee unit is $14.81 and the value of a penalty unit is $165.22.

Permit fees

A list of fees prescribed under the Transport (Compliance and Miscellaneous) Act 1983 is available for download below:

Penalties

Failure to obtain a permit or comply with permit conditions may result in penalties prescribed under the Transport (Compliance and Miscellaneous) Act 1983.

Contact us

Call: 03 9854 2283 (Network Permits – Department of Transport and Planning)

Email: odlpermit@transport.vic.gov.au(opens in a new window)

Transport

Updated 4 December 2025

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