Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations 2024

Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations 2024

I, the Governor in and over the State of Tasmania and its Dependencies in the Commonwealth of Australia, acting with the advice of the Executive Council, make the following regulations under the Vehicle and Traffic Act 1999 .

20 June 2024

B. BAKER

Governor

By Her Excellency's Command,

ERIC ABETZ

Minister for Transport

PART 1 - Preliminary

1.   Short title

These regulations may be cited as the Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations 2024 .

2.   Commencement

These regulations take effect on 25 June 2024.

3.   Interpretation

In these regulations –

Act means the Vehicle and Traffic Act 1999 ;

ADR (Definitions and Vehicle Categories) means the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule – Definitions and Vehicle Categories) 2005 made under the MVSA;

aggregate axle load, in relation to a vehicle or combination, means the sum of the axle loads of all the axles of the vehicle or combination;

axle group means a single axle group, tandem axle group, twinsteer axle group, tri-axle group or quad-axle group;

axle load, in relation to a vehicle, means the sum of the wheel loads in respect of all the wheels on an axle or axle group of that vehicle;

centre line means –

(a) in respect of an axle –

(i) if the axle consists of one shaft, a line parallel to the length of the axle and passing through the centre of the axle; or

(ii) if the axle consists of 2 shafts, a line in the vertical plane passing through –

(a) the centre of both shafts; and

(b) the centres of the wheels on the shafts;

(b) in respect of an axle group –

(i) if the group consists of 2 axles, one of which is fitted with twice the number of tyres as the other axle, a line located one-third of the way from the centre-line of the axle with more tyres towards the centre-line of the axle with fewer tyres; and

(ii) in any other case, a line located midway between the centre-lines of the outermost axles of the group;

converter dolly means a light trailer with one axle group or a single axle, and a fifth wheel coupling, designed to convert a semi-trailer into a dog trailer;

dog trailer means a light trailer, including a trailer consisting of a light semi-trailer and converter dolly, with –

(a) one axle group or a single axle at the front that is steered by connection to the towing vehicle by a drawbar; and

(b) one axle group or a single axle at the rear;

drawbar means a part of a trailer, other than a semi-trailer, connecting the trailer body to a coupling for towing purposes;

exemption means exemption from these regulations or the Vehicle Standards by means of a permit or a Gazette notice;

fifth wheel coupling means a device, except the upper rotating element and the kingpin (which are parts of a semi-trailer), used with a prime mover, semi-trailer or converter dolly to allow quick coupling and uncoupling and to provide for articulation;

Gazette notice means a notice made under Division 2 of Part 6 ;

heavy combination has the same meaning as in the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Tasmania);

Heavy Vehicle National Law (Tasmania) has the same meaning as in the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Tasmania) Act 2013 ;

light combination means a combination that is not a heavy combination within the meaning of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Tasmania);

light motor vehicle means a motor vehicle that is a light vehicle;

light semi-trailer means a semi-trailer that is a light trailer;

light trailer means a trailer that is not a heavy trailer within the meaning of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Tasmania);

night means the hours between sunset and sunrise;

permit means a permit issued under Division 3 of Part 6 ;

pig trailer means a light trailer that –

(a) has one axle group or a single axle near the middle of its load-carrying surface; and

(b) is connected to a towing vehicle by a drawbar;

point of articulation means –

(a) the axis of a kingpin for a fifth wheel; or

(b) the vertical axis of rotation of a fifth wheel coupling; or

(c) the vertical axis of rotation of a turntable assembly; or

(d) the vertical axis of rotation of the front axle group, or single axle, of a dog trailer; or

(e) the coupling pivot point of a semi-trailer;

quad-axle group means a group of 4 axles in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is more than 3.2 metres, but is not more than 4.9 metres;

radial ply tyre has the same meaning as in the ADR (Definitions and Vehicle Categories);

rear overhang, of a vehicle, means the distance between the rear overhang line and the rear of the vehicle, inclusive of any load;

rear overhang line, of a vehicle – see regulation 6 ;

single axle means an axle not forming part of an axle group;

single axle group means a group of at least 2 axles in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is less than 1 metre;

tandem axle group means a group of at least 2 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is at least one metre, but not more than 2 metres;

tri-axle group means a group of at least 3 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is at least 2 metres but not more than 3.2 metres;

twinsteer axle group means a group of 2 axles –

(a) that –

(i) are fitted to a motor vehicle; and

(ii) have single tyres; and

(iii) are connected to a common steering mechanism; and

(b) in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the axles is at least one metre, but not more than 2 metres;

Vehicle Standards has the same meaning as in regulation 3 of the Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Standards) Regulations 2024 ;

warning light means a warning light specified in Part 1 of Schedule 2 ;

warning sign means a warning sign specified in Part 2 of Schedule 2 .

4.   Application

These regulations apply in respect of the use of vehicles and combinations on public streets.

5.   Emergency situations

These regulations do not apply in an emergency situation where –

(a) a vehicle or combination is used or towed, or is intended to be used or towed –

(i) to protect life or property; or

(ii) to restore communication; or

(iii) to restore the supply of energy or water; and

(b) reasonable steps are taken to ensure that the vehicle or combination will not impose a safety risk or damage road infrastructure.

6.   Meaning of rear overhang line

(1)  For a vehicle with a single axle at the rear, the rear overhang line is a line running along the centre-line of the axle.

(2)  For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising 2 axles, one of which is fitted with twice the number of tyres as the other, the rear overhang line is a line running parallel to the axles that is –

(a) closer to the axle carrying the greater number of tyres than it is to the other axle; and

(b) located at one-third of the distance between the 2 axles.

(3)  For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear that is not an axle group specified in subregulation (1) or (2) , the rear overhang line is a line running parallel to the axles down the centre-line of the axle group.

(4)  For the purpose of applying subregulation (1) , (2) or (3) to a vehicle, if an axle group includes at least one steerable axle, that axle is to be disregarded unless –

(a) the group comprises only one axle and that axle is a steerable axle; or

(b) all the axles in the axle group are steerable axles.

PART 2 - Limits for Light Vehicles and Light Combinations

Division 1 - Maximum tyre pressures for light vehicles

7.   Maximum tyre pressures

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle with pneumatic tyres inflated to a pressure exceeding –

(a) the pressure recommended by the tyre manufacturer; or

(b) 825 kilopascals in the case of a radial tyre; or

(c) 700 kilopascals in any other case.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

Division 2 - Minimisation of dimensions

8.   Minimisation of dimensions

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, an oversize vehicle that is a light vehicle unless –

(a) any booms are fully retracted; and

(b) the vehicle and load are reduced to the smallest practicable dimensions.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle or light combination unless it is loaded so as to minimise its dimensions.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

Division 3 - Limits on dimensions

9.   Interpretation of Division

A reference in this Division to, or about, the measurements of a vehicle or combination is, except in regulation 12(1) , taken to be inclusive of any load.

10.   Width

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle that exceeds 2.5 metres in width.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  For the purposes of this regulation, the width of a light vehicle is to be measured without taking into account any of the following:

(a) anti-skid devices mounted on wheels;

(b) central tyre inflation systems;

(c) lights;

(d) mirrors;

(e) reflectors;

(f) signalling devices;

(g) tyre pressure gauges;

(h) permanently affixed webbing assembly-type devices if the width of the vehicle including those devices does not exceed 2.55 metres.

11.   Length of single light motor vehicles

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light motor vehicle that exceeds 12.5 metres in length.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

12.   Length of certain light trailers

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light semi-trailer or dog trailer on which –

(a) the distance between the point of articulation at the front of the trailer and the rear overhang line exceeds 9.5 metres; or

(b) the distance between the point of articulation at the front of the trailer and the rear of the trailer exceeds 12.3 metres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light semi-trailer unless any projection forward of the point of articulation at the front of the light semi-trailer is contained within a radius of 1.9 metres from the point of articulation.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(3)  If a light semi-trailer has 2 or more points of articulation at the front of the trailer, it must comply with subregulations (1) and (2) when measured at one of the points.

13.   Length of light combinations

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light combination that exceeds 19 metres in length.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

14.   Rear overhang

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light semi-trailer or dog trailer if the rear overhang exceeds –

(a) 60% of the distance between the point of articulation at the front and the rear overhang line; or

(b) 3.7 metres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A light semi-trailer with 2 or more points of articulation at the front must comply with subregulation (1) when measured at the same point used for measurement for compliance with regulation 12(3) .

(3)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a pig trailer if the rear overhang exceeds –

(a) the length of the load-carrying area, or body, ahead of the rear overhang line; or

(b) 3.7 metres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(4)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle not specified in subregulation (1) or (3) if the rear overhang exceeds –

(a) 60% of the distance between the centre of the front axle and the rear overhang line; or

(b) 3.7 metres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(5)  For the purposes of this regulation, the rear overhang is measured at right angles between the rear overhang line of a vehicle and the rear of the vehicle or any load that it is carrying.

15.   Trailer drawbar length

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a dog trailer if the distance between the coupling pivot point on the drawbar of the trailer and the centre-line of the front axle group or of the front single axle of the trailer exceeds 5 metres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a pig trailer if the distance between the coupling pivot point on a drawbar of the trailer and the centre-line of the axle group or single axle on the trailer exceeds 8.5 metres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

16.   Height

(1)  In this regulation –

livestock carrier means a light vehicle built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of –

(a) a light vehicle that exceeds 4.3 metres in height; or

(b) a livestock carrier that exceeds 4.6 metres in height.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

17.   Ground clearance

(1)  In this regulation –

ground clearance, of a vehicle, means the minimum distance to the ground from a point on the underside of the vehicle, except a point on a tyre, wheel, wheel hub, brake backing plate or flexible mudguard or mudflap of the vehicle.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light motor vehicle or light combination unless it has a ground clearance of at least –

(a) 100 millimetres at any point within one metre of an axle; and

(b) one-thirtieth of the distance between the centres of adjacent axles at the midpoint between them; and

(c) at any other point, the distance that will allow the light motor vehicle or light combination to pass over a peak in the road with a gradient on either side of 1:15 if –

(i) the wheels of one axle of the vehicle or combination are on the slope on one side of the peak; and

(ii) the wheels of the next axle are on the slope on the other side.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(3)  Subregulation (2) does not apply to a light motor vehicle with fewer than 4 wheels or any light trailer towed by such a vehicle.

Division 4 - Mass

18.   Interpretation of Division

A reference in this Division to, or about, the mass, wheel load, axle load, axle group load, aggregate axle load, coupling load or towbar load of a vehicle or combination is taken to be inclusive of any load.

19.   Overmass light vehicles or light combinations

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle or light combination that is overmass.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

20.   Maximum wheel loads and axle loads

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle on which the wheel load of a wheel or the aggregate axle load of an axle or axle group fitted to the vehicle exceeds –

(a) the limit specified by the manufacturer of the wheel, axle or axle group; or

(b) the GVM of the light vehicle or the GCM of the light motor vehicle in the combination.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle if the load on a tyre exceeds the maximum load capacity determined for the tyre by its manufacturer.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

PART 3 - Determination of Mass, Wheel Load and Axle Load of Vehicles and Combinations

21.   Determination of vehicle mass and wheel, single axle, axle group, aggregate axle, coupling and towbar loads

(1)  For the purposes of these regulations, the mass, wheel load, single axle load, axle group load or aggregate axle load of a vehicle or combination, or the load on a coupling or towbar of a vehicle or combination, may be determined by a police officer, or an authorised officer, in accordance with this regulation.

(2)  A police officer or an authorised officer may determine the mass, wheel load, single axle load, axle group load or aggregate axle load of a vehicle or combination, or the load on a coupling or towbar of a vehicle or combination –

(a) by causing to be placed on a weighbridge –

(i) any wheel separately; or

(ii) all the wheels on any single axle; or

(iii) all the wheels on any axle group; or

(iv) all the wheels on the vehicle; or

(b) by causing to be placed on a portable weighing device or devices, tested in accordance with regulation 23  –

(i) any wheel separately; or

(ii) a wheel or wheels on any single axle; or

(iii) a wheel or wheels on each axle of any axle group; or

(iv) the outer wheels on each axle of the vehicle; or

(v) the coupling of the trailer of the vehicle.

(3)  A mass or load, or the sum of any masses or loads of a vehicle or combination, determined under subregulation (2) is the mass, wheel load, single axle load, axle group load, aggregate axle load, coupling load or towbar load, as the case may be, of the vehicle or combination to which it relates –

(a) measured in circumstances where any wheel of the vehicle or combination was, at the time of determination, within 150 millimetres of alignment in the same horizontal plane in relation to any other wheel of the vehicle or combination; and

(b) if a mass is determined under subregulation (2)(b)(v) , measured in circumstances where the coupling of the trailer is not more than 50 millimetres higher or lower than it was when attached to the vehicle towing the trailer immediately before the measurement was made.

(4)  The mass and aggregate axle load of a vehicle or combination may be determined by adding together the axle loads of all the axles and the mass measurement at the coupling of the trailer, provided that each measurement is made independently of each other measurement.

22.   Certificate relating to determination

If a determination is made by a police officer or an authorised officer in accordance with regulation 21 , the officer must, as soon as practicable, issue, to the driver of the vehicle, a certificate showing particulars of the mass, wheel load, single axle load, axle group load, aggregate axle load or the load on a coupling or towbar, as the case may be, of the vehicle or combination if –

(a) the officer reasonably believes that an offence against these regulations has been committed; or

(b) the driver of the vehicle requests a certificate.

23.   Portable weighing devices

(1)  In this regulation –

testing authority means the Secretary of the responsible Department in relation to the Roads and Jetties Act 1935 or a person authorised by the Secretary to test portable weighing devices.

(2)  A portable weighing device is not to be used for the purpose of regulation 21 if –

(a) the portable weighing device has not been –

(i) tested by the testing authority within the previous 12 months; and

(ii) shown to have a limit of error less than 2%; or

(b) the load to be measured in any single weighing operation is –

(i) less than the smallest mass at which the portable weighing device was last tested by the testing authority; or

(ii) more than the largest mass at which the portable weighing device was last tested by the testing authority; or

(c) any repairs to the mechanism have been carried out since the device was last tested and the device has not again been tested.

(3)  A certificate in a form approved by the Commission and signed by the testing authority is admissible as evidence and is, in the absence of proof to the contrary, proof –

(a) that the portable weighing device to which it relates has been duly tested; and

(b) of the accuracy of the device; and

(c) of the fact that the person named in the certificate was in fact the Secretary of the responsible Department in relation to the Roads and Jetties Act 1935 or a person authorised by the Secretary for the purposes of this regulation.

PART 4 - Loads on Light Vehicles

Division 1 - Security of loads on light vehicles

24.   Standards for security of loads

(1)  In this regulation –

Load Restraint Guide for Light Vehicles means the Load Restraint Guide for Light Vehicles 2018 published by the NTC, as amended or replaced from time to time;

Loading Performance Standards means the standards of that name set out in the Load Restraint Guide for Light Vehicles;

NTC means the National Transport Commission established by the National Transport Commission Act 2003 of the Commonwealth.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle or light combination on which the load is not placed, secured or restrained in accordance with the Loading Performance Standards.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(3)  In proceedings for failure to comply with subregulation (2)  –

(a) a document purporting to be the Load Restraint Guide for Light Vehicles is to be taken to be the Load Restraint Guide for Light Vehicles; and

(b) evidence that a load, or part of a load, has fallen off a vehicle or combination is evidence that the load was not properly placed, secured or restrained.

25.   Loads on light vehicles

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle or light combination on which the load is not safely and securely fastened so as to prevent –

(a) the load, or any part of it, falling from the vehicle or combination; and

(b) any unnecessary movement of the load in relation to the vehicle or combination; and

(c) the load flapping or swaying so as to cause, or be likely to cause, danger to any person or property.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle or light combination with a load consisting of sand, soil, rocks, stones, gravel or similar material unless it is loaded to prevent any portion of that material from falling or being blown from the light vehicle or light combination.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

26.   More than one large indivisible item

(1)  In this regulation –

large indivisible item means an item, other than a freight container within the meaning of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Tasmania), that –

(a) cannot, without disproportionate effort, expense or risk of damage, be divided into 2 or more smaller items; and

(b) cannot be carried on any vehicle without exceeding a mass or dimension limit specified in Part 2 .

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle or light combination carrying more than one large indivisible item unless the light vehicle or light combination, including its load, complies with Division 4 of Part 2 .

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

Division 2 - Projections

27.   Dangerous projections

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle with a load that projects in a way that is dangerous to a person or property, even if the dimension limits and warning requirements specified in this Division are complied with.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

28.   Side projections

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle with a load that projects from the outermost part of either side of the vehicle by more than 150 millimetres.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

29.   Warning requirements on projections

(1)  In this regulation –

daylight means the hours between sunrise and sunset.

(2)  During daylight, a person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle carrying a load if the load projects more than –

(a) 1.2 metres in front of the vehicle; or

(b) 1.2 metres behind the vehicle, unless a brightly coloured red, yellow, or red and yellow, flag, at least 300 millimetres long and at least 300 millimetres wide, is affixed to the rear extremity of the load.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(3)  At night, a person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light vehicle carrying a load if the load projects more than –

(a) 1.2 metres in front of the vehicle; or

(b) 1.2 metres behind the vehicle, unless a red light, which is clearly visible at a distance of at least 200 metres, is affixed to the rear extremity of the load.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

PART 5 - Towing of Vehicles

30.   Coupling of vehicles in light combinations

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light combination unless each vehicle in the combination is securely fastened to the vehicle towing it by a coupling that complies with the Vehicle Standards.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

31.   Light motor vehicles not to tow trailers except in certain cases

(1)  In this regulation –

towing capacity of the motor vehicle means –

(a) the towing capacity of the motor vehicle as specified by the manufacturer of the motor vehicle; or

(b) if the towing capacity is not specified or is not able to be identified –

(i) 1.5 times the unloaded mass of the motor vehicle, if the trailer is fitted with brakes that are in working order; or

(ii) the unloaded mass of the motor vehicle, if the trailer is not fitted with brakes that are in working order;

towing capacity of the towing attachment means the towing capacity of the towing attachment as specified by its manufacturer.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light motor vehicle to tow a trailer if the trailer has a loaded mass exceeding –

(a) the towing capacity of the motor vehicle; or

(b) the towing capacity of the towing attachment fitted to the motor vehicle.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

32.   Light motor vehicles towing more than one vehicle

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light motor vehicle to tow more than one other vehicle, unless the vehicles being towed –

(a) comprise a combination which has broken down or is otherwise disabled and is being towed to the nearest safe place at which the vehicles of the combination can be separated; or

(b) are constructed or adapted for the carriage of passengers for public entertainment and are used elsewhere than on a carriageway or footpath immediately adjacent to a carriageway.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

PART 6 - Exemptions

Division 1 - Exemptions generally

33.   Interpretation of Part

(1)  In this Part –

class of vehicle means vehicles of a similar type or vehicles carrying the same type of load;

wheelbase means the distance from the centre-line of the foremost axle of a vehicle to its rear overhang line.

(2)  For the purposes of this Part, an electronic or facsimile copy or photocopy of a permit issued by the Commission or of a Gazette notice, which has not been altered by a person other than the Commission, is to be taken to be the original document.

34.   Exemptions by Commission

(1)  Subject to subregulation (2) , the Commission may exempt the following from these regulations or specified provisions of them, or the Vehicle Standards or specified provisions of them:

(a) a vehicle or a combination;

(b) a class of vehicles or combinations;

(c) a person;

(d) a class of persons.

(2)  The Commission must not exempt a vehicle or a combination, or a class of vehicles or combinations, from a requirement in Division 4 of Part 2 that relates to the GVM, GCM or manufacturer's rating of a vehicle, part of a vehicle or a combination.

(3)  In determining whether to issue an exemption, the Commission may have regard to any or all of the following:

(a) for an exemption for a vehicle from Part 2 –

(i) the "Exemptions from Mass and Dimension Standards" as approved by the Ministerial Council, published by the National Road Transport Commission; and

(ii) the equipment and specifications of the vehicle, including the wheelbase, braking systems, tyre ratio and power to weight ratio;

(b) for an exemption from the Vehicle Standards, whether the vehicle is an experimental vehicle, a prototype, or another vehicle, that could not reasonably be expected to comply with the requirement;

(c) for any exemption, any other matter that the Commission considers appropriate.

Division 2 - Gazette notices

35.   Gazette notices

(1)  The Commission may, by notice published in the Gazette –

(a) exempt from these regulations or specified provisions of them or the Vehicle Standards or specified provisions of them –

(i) a specified class of vehicles; or

(ii) a specified class of combinations; or

(iii) a specified class of persons; or

(b) vary or revoke an exemption granted under this regulation.

(2)  An exemption under this regulation may be –

(a) granted on conditions specified in the notice; and

(b) limited to routes specified in the notice.

(3)  A notice under this regulation is a statutory rule for the purposes of the Rules Publication Act 1953 .

36.   Contents of notice

(1)  A Gazette notice must contain the following:

(a) the class of vehicles, combinations or persons to which it applies;

(b) the areas or routes to which it applies;

(c) the time of day for which it applies;

(d) the provisions of these regulations or the Vehicle Standards from which the class of vehicles, combinations or persons is exempt;

(e) any conditions subject to which the exemption is granted;

(f) the date on which the exemption takes effect and how long it is to remain in force;

(g) if applicable –

(i) the maximum mass, inclusive of any load, of the motor vehicle and the maximum mass or loaded mass of the combination or each vehicle in the combination; and

(ii) the maximum mass, inclusive of any load, on any single axle or axle group for a vehicle or combination, or each vehicle in the combination; and

(iii) the maximum mass, inclusive of any load, of a vehicle or combination, or each vehicle in the combination, determined by the vehicle's tyre width; and

(iv) the maximum mass, inclusive of any load, of a vehicle, a combination or each vehicle in the combination, determined by the spacing of axles or axle groups; and

(v) the maximum dimensions or loaded dimensions of a vehicle or combination, or each vehicle in the combination; and

(vi) any warning signs or warning lights that are required to be displayed on the vehicle or combination; and

(vii) the months of the year during which the exemption is in force.

(2)  A Gazette notice may apply to more than one class of vehicles if the requirements referred to in paragraphs (b) , (c) , (d) , (e) and (f) are the same in respect of each class of vehicles.

(3)  A Gazette notice remains in force until whichever of the following occurs first:

(a) it is revoked;

(b) the expiration of the period specified in it;

(c) the expiration of 3 years after it takes effect.

37.   Breach of condition of Gazette notice

If a person breaches a condition of a Gazette notice applicable to the person, the Commission, by notice in writing served on the person, may provide that –

(a) the Gazette notice no longer applies to that person or the person’s vehicle or combination; or

(b) the application of the Gazette notice to that person or the person’s vehicle or combination is varied as specified in the written notice.

Division 3 - Permits

38.   Application for permit

(1)  A person may apply to the Commission for a permit exempting the person, a specified vehicle or specified combination from these regulations or specified provisions of them, or the Vehicle Standards or specified provisions of them.

(2)  An application for a permit –

(a) is to be in a form approved by the Commission; and

(b) must contain the information required in the approved form; and

(c) is to be lodged with the Commission; and

(d) is to be accompanied by any third-party authorities or consents required by the Commission; and

(e) is to be accompanied by any evidence required by the Commission.

(3)  Before granting or refusing to grant an application for a permit, the Commission may request the applicant to provide such further information and documents as the Commission considers relevant.

(4)  On receipt of an application for a permit, the Commission may –

(a) grant the application; or

(b) refuse to grant the application.

39.   Issue of permits

(1)  If the Commission grants an application for a permit, the Commission is to issue a permit in writing.

(2)  A permit may be subject to any conditions that the Commission considers appropriate.

(3)  On issuing a permit, the Commission must record the details of the permit in a register.

(4)  A permit may be communicated by facsimile or other electronic means.

40.   Form of permits

A permit must include the following details:

(a) the name and address of the applicant;

(b) the areas or routes to which it applies;

(c) the time of day for which it applies;

(d) the provisions of these regulations or the Vehicle Standards, or the subject matter of those provisions, from which the class of vehicles or persons is exempt;

(e) any conditions subject to which the permit is granted;

(f) the date on which it takes effect and how long it is to remain in force;

(g) if applicable –

(i) the vehicle or combination to which it applies and the registration number of each vehicle; and

(ii) the maximum mass or loaded mass of the motor vehicle and the maximum mass or loaded mass of the combination and each vehicle in the combination; and

(iii) the maximum mass or loaded mass on any single axle or axle group for a vehicle or combination or each vehicle in the combination; and

(iv) the maximum dimensions or loaded dimensions of a vehicle or combination or each vehicle in the combination; and

(v) the maximum mass or loaded mass of a vehicle or combination or each vehicle in the combination determined by the spacing of axles or axle groups; and

(vi) any warning signs or warning lights that are required to be displayed on the vehicle or combination.

41.   Variation, suspension and cancellation of permits

(1)  The Commission may vary, suspend or cancel a permit –

(a) on application by the holder of the permit; or

(b) of the Commission's own accord.

(2)  The Commission may vary a permit if –

(a) there has been a change in a matter that the Commission took into account when issuing the permit; or

(b) the Commission believes the variation to be appropriate.

(3)  The Commission may suspend or cancel a permit if –

(a) there has been a breach of a condition of the permit; or

(b) the holder has been convicted of a traffic offence of a serious or persistent nature; or

(c) there has been a breach of a mass, dimension, route or area restriction on the permit; or

(d) a vehicle or combination to which the permit applies has been found to be carrying an unsafe load.

(4)  The Commission may cancel a permit if –

(a) the vehicle or combination to which the permit applies is altered; or

(b) the application for the permit contained material that was false or misleading.

(5)  If the Commission varies, cancels or suspends a permit, the Commission is to notify the holder of the permit in writing of the variation, cancellation or suspension.

(6)  A variation, cancellation or suspension takes effect –

(a) from the date on which the holder receives notice under subregulation (5) , if a later date is not specified in the notice; or

(b) if a later date is specified in the notice, from that date.

(7)  A permit that is suspended has no effect for the period during which it is suspended.

42.   Permit not transferable

A permit –

(a) is not transferable or renewable; and

(b) may be surrendered to the Commission at any time.

43.   Duplicate permits

(1)  If a permit is lost, stolen or destroyed, the Commission may issue a duplicate permit.

(2)  A duplicate permit may be communicated by facsimile or other electronic means.

Division 4 - Exemption may be void

44.   Exemption may be void

(1)  A permit is void and of no effect if the vehicle or combination to which the permit applies is used –

(a) on a route other than on a route which it is permitted to travel under the permit; or

(b) at a time other than a time at which it is permitted to travel under the permit; or

(c) while accompanied by fewer than the number of pilot vehicles required under the permit applying to it; or

(d) with an aggregate axle mass, inclusive of any load, that exceeds by more than 10% the mass permitted under the permit; or

(e) with a dimension, inclusive of any load, that exceeds by more than 10% the dimensions permitted under the permit.

(2)  A Gazette notice is void and of no effect in respect of a particular person, vehicle or combination if the person uses, or causes or permits to be used, a vehicle or combination –

(a) on a route other than on a route which it is permitted to travel under the notice; or

(b) at a time other than a time at which it is permitted to travel under the notice; or

(c) while accompanied by fewer than the number of pilot vehicles required under the notice applying to it; or

(d) with an aggregate axle mass, inclusive of any load, that exceeds by more than 10% the mass permitted under the notice; or

(e) with a dimension, inclusive of any load, that exceeds by more than 10% the dimensions permitted under the notice.

Division 5 - Conditions on exemptions

45.   Conditions on exemptions

(1)  The Commission may impose one or more conditions on an exemption.

(2)  Without limiting the generality of subregulation (1) , the Commission may impose one or more of the following conditions:

(a) the maximum speed at which a vehicle operating under an exemption may be driven or towed;

(b) matters relating to the protection of bridges, roads and public infrastructure;

(c) matters relating to public safety;

(d) notifying requirements in respect of any change in circumstances;

(e) any or all of the conditions set out in Schedule 1 .

(3)  A condition set out in Schedule 1 may be incorporated by reference in the permit or Gazette notice.

46.   Warnings

For the purposes of warning other road users, the Commission may require a vehicle or combination that is subject to an exemption under this Part to be –

(a) accompanied by either or both of the following:

(i) one or more pilot vehicles in accordance with Schedule 2 ;

(ii) one or more escort vehicles; and

(b) fitted with one or more warning lights or one or more warning signs in accordance with Schedule 2 .

Division 6 - Offences

47.   Breach of condition

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or a combination, that is subject to an exemption, otherwise than in accordance with the conditions applying to the exemption.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person who is convicted of an offence, in relation to a part of a vehicle or combination that fails to comply with a condition may be convicted of another offence if another part of the vehicle or combination also fails to comply with the same or a similar condition.

48.   Breach of dimension or mass

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or combination that is subject to an exemption, if the dimensions or mass for that vehicle or combination, inclusive of any load, exceed the dimensions or mass limits prescribed in the exemption applicable to that vehicle or combination.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  Where a person is convicted of an offence or offences under this regulation relating to exceeding the mass limit for a vehicle or combination, the court must, in addition to imposing any other penalty in respect of that offence, impose a fine in respect of each offence of –

(a) 0.4 penalty units for the first tonne or part of a tonne of the mass in excess of any maximum mass authorised for the vehicle by these regulations; and

(b) one penalty unit for each additional tonne or part of a tonne in excess of that maximum mass.

49.   Warning signs and warning lights

(1)  If it is a condition of an exemption that a vehicle or combination be fitted with a warning sign, a person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, the vehicle or combination unless it is fitted with a warning sign that complies with the requirements of this regulation, the exemption and Schedule 2.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or combination displaying a warning sign unless –

(a) the sign is required under an exemption; and

(b) the vehicle or combination is operating in accordance with the exemption.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(3)  If it is a requirement of an exemption that a warning light be fitted to a vehicle or combination, a person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, the vehicle or combination under that exemption unless the warning light is illuminated.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(4)  If a pilot vehicle is required to have a warning light, a person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, the pilot vehicle to accompany a vehicle or combination unless the warning light is illuminated.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(5)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or combination with a warning light illuminated on it unless –

(a) the light is required under an exemption; and

(b) the vehicle or combination is operating in accordance with the exemption.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(6)  A requirement to display a warning sign or warning light as a condition of an exemption does not affect any other obligation to display a sign or light under these regulations, the Act or any other Act.

50.   Pilot vehicles

(1)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a pilot vehicle that does not comply with Part 3 of Schedule 2 .

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or combination that is required under the Act or another Act to be accompanied by one or more pilot vehicles unless it is so accompanied.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(3)  For the purposes of subregulation (2) , the following are taken to be using a vehicle or combination:

(a) any person using, or causing or permitting the use of, the vehicle or combination;

(b) the driver of the pilot vehicle.

51.   Damage to infrastructure

A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or combination that is the subject of an exemption unless, before the vehicle or combination is used on a particular route, the route is assessed by that person and the person is satisfied that the vehicle or combination can be used on that route without causing –

(a) disruption to telecommunication, electricity, rail, gas, water or sewerage services; or

(b) damage to any road (including a bridge), structure or rail crossing.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

52.   Driver to carry permit

The driver of a motor vehicle or combination must carry in the motor vehicle a copy of any permit under which the motor vehicle or combination, or any vehicle being towed, is operating.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

PART 7 - Miscellaneous

53.   Load limit road signs

(1)  In this regulation –

prescribed sign means a rectangular sign with letters and figures indicating the gross permitted load limit or the permitted axle load or maximum dimensions of a vehicle or combination.

(2)  A prescribed sign may be inscribed with words, symbols and numerals limiting the requirements of the sign in relation to days, hours, classes of persons, classes of vehicles or circumstances and, where a sign is so inscribed, the requirements of the sign are to be construed, and have effect, subject to that inscription.

(3)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a vehicle or combination beyond a prescribed sign if –

(a) the mass of the vehicle or combination or the mass on any axle of the vehicle or combination exceeds the gross permitted load limit, or the permitted axle load, as indicated on the sign; or

(b) the dimensions of the vehicle or combination exceed the maximum dimensions permitted as indicated on the sign.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.

(4)  Where a court convicts a person for a breach of subregulation (3)(a) it must, in addition to any other fine, impose an additional fine of –

(a) 0.4 penalty units for the first tonne or part of a tonne of the load in excess of that permitted by the prescribed sign; and

(b) one penalty unit for each additional tonne or part of a tonne in excess of the permitted load or dimensions.

54.   Transitional provisions

(1)  In this regulation –

commencement day means the day on which these regulations take effect.

(2)  If, immediately before the commencement day, an instrument made under the Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations 2014 is in force and effect –

(a) that instrument is taken, on and after the commencement day, to be an instrument made under these regulations; and

(b) a reference in that instrument to a provision of the Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Operations) Regulations 2014 is taken to be a reference to the corresponding provision in these regulations.

SCHEDULE 1 - Conditions to which an exemption may be subject

Regulation 45

1.   Travel restrictions at night

At night, a vehicle or combination must not travel –

(a) outside an urban area; or

(b) in an urban area unless accompanied by a pilot vehicle.

2.   Prohibition on towing

A vehicle must not tow another vehicle.

3.   Prohibition on carrying load

A vehicle must not carry a load.

4.   Flags

(1) A vehicle or combination, and any load, must display 4 brightly coloured red, yellow, or red and yellow, flags, each at least 450 millimetres long and at least 450 millimetres wide.

(2) A flag must be positioned at each side of the front and rear of –

(a) any projecting load; or

(b) if there is no projecting load, the vehicle or combination.

5.   Delineators

(1) A vehicle or combination with a projecting load must have at least 2 yellow, rigid pieces of material (known as "delineators"), one attached to the front and the other attached to the rear of the projection.

(2) A vehicle or combination must have at least 4 delineators with at least one on each side at the front and at least one on each side at the rear.

(3) A delineator must –

(a) be at least 300 millimetres long and at least 300 millimetres wide; and

(b) comply with Class 1 or 2 of Australian Standard AS 1906:2007, Retroreflective materials and devices for road traffic control purposes, as amended and in force at the commencement of these regulations; and

(c) if at the front of the projection, be attached so that its reflective surface is facing forward of the vehicle; and

(d) if at the rear of the projection, be attached so that its reflective surface is facing rearward of the vehicle.

6.   Marker lights for night travel

At night, a vehicle or combination must display –

(a) lights showing yellow to the front and red to the rear (known as "side markers") no more than 2 metres apart along both sides of the vehicle and along any front or rear projection; and

(b) 2 red lights (known as "rear markers") fixed to the rear of any rear-projecting load, within 400 millimetres of each side of the load, and at least one metre but not more than 2.1 metres above the ground.

7.   Headlights

A vehicle, or the front vehicle in an oversize combination, must have its low-beam headlights illuminated while travelling in the daytime, unless it is not required under the Vehicle Standards to have headlights.

8.   Side lights for travel at night

(1) When travelling at night, a vehicle with a projection extending more than 1.2 metres in front of the vehicle body must display an illuminated yellow light fixed on each side of the projection, mounted as far forward as possible, and shielded from the driver's view.

(2) Both lights referred to in subclause (1) must be visible to any traffic approaching the vehicle from its front, and at least one of the lights must be visible to any traffic approaching the vehicle from either side.

9.   Markings for vehicles

(1) A pattern covering an area of at least 0.16 square metres and consisting of diagonal stripes at least 150 millimetres wide and alternately coloured –

(a) red and white; or

(b) black and white –

must be displayed on the sides of the rear of the vehicle.

(2) Any part of an axle extending more than 150 millimetres from the outside wall of a vehicle's tyre must be painted fluorescent yellow or have fluorescent yellow, or other highly visible, material wrapped around it.

SCHEDULE 2 - Warnings

Regulation 46 , 49 and 50(1)

PART 1 - Warning lights

1.   Warning lights

(1) A warning light on an oversize vehicle or combination or a pilot vehicle must –

(a) when illuminated, emit a rotating, flashing, yellow-coloured light; and

(b) when illuminated, flash between 120 and 200 times a minute; and

(c) have a power of at least –

(i) in the case of an LED light, 25 watts; and

(ii) in all other cases, 55 watts; and

(d) not be a strobe light; and

(e) be clearly visible at a distance of 500 metres in all directions or supplemented by one or more additional warning lights so that the light emanating from at least one of them is clearly visible at a distance of 500 metres in any direction.

(2) Despite subclause (1) , in the case of a pilot vehicle travelling in front of an oversize vehicle or combination, a filter may be placed behind the warning light on the pilot vehicle, to reduce the intensity of the light directed to the driver of the oversize vehicle or combination.

PART 2 - Warning signs

Division 1 - General

1.   Warning sign must be clean

A warning sign must be kept clean and unobscured so that it can be read by other road users.

2.   Face of warning sign

(1) The face of a warning sign must have a yellow surface which complies with Class 1 or 2 of Australian Standard AS 1906:2007, Retroreflective materials and devices for road traffic control purposes, as amended and in force at the commencement of these regulations.

(2) The face of the warning sign must have a black border at least 20 millimetres wide.

(3) The outermost edge of the border must be set at least 10 millimetres in from the edge of the sign unless the sign has been made with a box edge.

(4) The warning sign must have its manufacturer's name or trademark permanently marked in letters at least 3 millimetres, but not more than 10 millimetres, high.

(5) The marking may appear in any visible location on the sign, except in a bottom corner of a sign used on a pilot vehicle.

3.   Material for warning sign

(1) A warning sign must be made of stiff, flat, weatherproof material.

(2) Despite subclause (1) , a sign on an oversize vehicle or combination may be made of flexible material if the vehicle or its load is unsuitable for a stiff sign.

Division 2 - Oversize vehicles

4.   Size of warning sign

(1) A warning sign on an oversize vehicle or combination must be at least 1.2 metres long and at least 450 millimetres high.

(2) The sign may be split into 2 parts, in which case the combined length of its parts must be at least 1.2 metres.

5.   Face of warning sign

(1) A warning sign on an oversize vehicle or combination must show the word "OVERSIZE", in black upper-case lettering, conforming with Australian Standard AS 1744, Forms of Letters and Numerals for Road Signs, in typeface Series C(N).

(2) The lettering must be at least 200 millimetres high.

(3) The top and the bottom of the lettering must be at least 125 millimetres from the top and bottom of the sign, respectively.

(4) If the sign is split into 2 parts –

(a) the part mounted on the left must show the letters "OVER" and the part mounted on the right must show the letters "SIZE"; and

(b) despite clause 2(2) and (3) of Division 1 of this Part, there must be no border between the 2 parts.

6.   Mounting warning sign

(1) A warning sign on an oversize vehicle or combination must be mounted horizontally.

(2) The lower edge of the sign must be –

(a) above the bottom of the bumper bar; or

(b) if there is no bumper bar, at least 500 millimetres from the ground level.

(3) If the sign is split into 2 parts, the parts must be fitted at the same height.

Division 3 - Warning signs on pilot vehicles

7.   Size and shape of warning sign

(1) A warning sign on a pilot vehicle must be at least 1.2 metres long and at least 600 millimetres high.

(2) The sign may have bottom corner cut-outs not more than 150 millimetres wide and not more than 100 millimetres high if they are needed for mounting the warning lights.

8.   Faces of warning sign

(1) Both faces of a warning sign on a pilot vehicle must show –

(a) the word "OVERSIZE", in black upper-case lettering at least 200 millimetres high, conforming with Australian Standard AS 1744, Forms of Letters and Numerals for Road Signs, in typeface Series C(N); and

(b) the words "LOAD AHEAD", in black upper-case lettering at least 100 millimetres high, conforming with Australian Standard AS 1744, Forms of Letters and Numerals for Road Signs, in typeface Series D(N).

(2) The bottom of the lettering of the word "OVERSIZE" must be at least 300 millimetres from the bottom of the sign.

(3) The bottom of the lettering of the words "LOAD AHEAD" must be at least 100 millimetres from the bottom of the sign.

9.   Warning sign not to lean back

A warning sign on a pilot vehicle must not lean back so that there is more than 200 millimetres measured horizontally from the top of the sign to a vertical line running through the bottom of the sign.

PART 3 - Pilot Vehicles

1.   Requirements for pilot vehicle

(1) A pilot vehicle must have 4 or more wheels and a GVM of –

(a) 6.5 tonnes or less in the case of a rear pilot vehicle if 2 pilot vehicles are required; or

(b) 4.5 tonnes or less in any other case.

(2) A pilot vehicle must have a warning sign on its roof.

(3) A pilot vehicle must only have a warning light attached –

(a) above or below the sign; or

(b) at each side of the sign.

2.   Headlights on pilot vehicle

The low-beam headlights on a pilot vehicle must be switched on when it is accompanying an oversize vehicle or combination during the daytime.

3.   Pilot vehicle not to tow, &c.

A pilot vehicle must not –

(a) tow a trailer; or

(b) carry a load, other than tools, equipment or substances for use in connection with the oversize vehicle or combination that it is accompanying or for restraining the load on that vehicle or combination.

4.   Location of pilot vehicle

(1) If only one pilot vehicle accompanies an oversize vehicle or combination, the pilot vehicle must travel –

(a) behind the oversize vehicle or combination if they are on a divided road; or

(b) in front of the oversize vehicle or combination if they are on a road that is not divided.

(2) If 2 pilot vehicles accompany an oversize vehicle or combination, one pilot vehicle must travel in front of the oversize vehicle or combination, and the other behind it.

(3) A pilot vehicle must travel far enough away from the oversize vehicle or combination that it is accompanying to give adequate warning to other road users of the presence of the oversize vehicle or combination, taking into account traffic speed, weather, visibility and other driving conditions.

5.   Communication between drivers

(1) In this clause –

agricultural machine means a machine with its own automotive power, built to perform agricultural tasks.

(2) An oversize vehicle or combination and any accompanying pilot vehicle must have an electronic device that allows the drivers to communicate effectively with each other.

(3) Subclause (2) does not apply to –

(a) an oversize agricultural machine; or

(b) an oversize combination that includes an agricultural machine.

Displayed and numbered in accordance with the Rules Publication Act 1953.

Notified in the Gazette on 21 June 2024

These regulations are administered in the Department of State Growth.