Fines for oversize violations in California
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Operating an overweight vehicle in California is considered a criminal offense under California Vehicle Code Section 35551(a) VC, carrying significant penalties.
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According to Vehicle Code § 42030(a), initial fines for exceeding the weight limit are relatively low, starting at $20 for up to 1,000 pounds over the limit on a single axle before additional fees.
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Typical fines for overweight trucks can range from five hundred ($500) to one thousand dollars.
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Individuals convicted of violating weight limit provisions under Division 15 (commencing with Section 35000), or violating Section 21461 related to signs specified in Section 35654 or 35752, or violating Section 40001 mandating vehicle operation on a highway in violation of regulations, are subject to fines.
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In most cases, operating an overweight vehicle is considered a misdemeanor under California law, potentially resulting in summary probation for up to six months in county jail and/or a fine of up to one thousand dollars ($1,000).
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However, if the excess weight is less than four thousand five hundred one pounds (4,501), VC 35551 is classified as a California infraction.
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The penalty for overweight vehicles classified as infractions is a fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250).
Weight
0 – 1,000 lbs excess
1,001 – 1,500 lbs excess
1,501 – 2,000 lbs excess
2,001 – 2,500 lbs excess
2,501 – 3,000 lbs excess
3,001 – 3,500 lbs excess
3,501 – 4,000 lbs excess
4,001 – 4,500 lbs excess
4,501 – 5,000 lbs excess
5,001 – 6,000 lbs excess
6,001 – 7,000 lbs excess
7,001 – 8,000 lbs excess
8,001 – 10,000 lbs excess
10.001 and over
Fine
$20
$30
$40
$55
$85
$105
$125
$145
$175
$200,04 + .04 per each lb
$360,08 + .08 per each lb
$560,08 + .08 per each lb
$1200,15 + .15 per each lb
$2000,20 + .20 per each lb
Escort vehicle requirements can vary widely from state to state, encompassing mandatory driver qualifications, training, certifications, vehicle weights, mandatory signage, flags, lighting specifications, essential onboard equipment, and other factors. The SafeGuard team is well-equipped to furnish you with comprehensive information on any additional requirements specific to your designated route.
980-414-6611
CALTRANS
Permits Issuance Branch
P.O. Box 942874, MS #41
Sacramento, CA 94274-0001
1823 14th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811-7119
North Region Phone: (916) 322-1297
South Region Phone: (909) 383-4637
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