Who Needs a Forest & Logging Permit?
You need a special permit if your vehicle:
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Hauls logs, timber, or other forest products
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Exceeds standard weight limits for public highways
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Operates on roads not designed for heavy commercial traffic
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Is out-of-state, traveling into Kentucky for logging operations
This applies to:
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Logging companies
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Independent timber haulers
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Owner-operators contracted for forest product transport
Types of Logging Permits in Kentucky
1. Forest Product Single-Trip Permits
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For one-time or occasional logging trips
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Covers overweight or over-dimension loads
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Valid for the duration of the trip only
2. Forest Product Annual Permits
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For carriers that regularly haul timber
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Allows multiple trips throughout the year
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Must be renewed annually with updated vehicle and weight information
3. Special Oversize/Overweight Permits
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Required if your load exceeds legal height, width, or length
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May include:
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Escort vehicle requirements
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Restricted travel times
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Route limitations
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Weight Limits for Logging Trucks
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Standard single-vehicle weight limit: 80,000 lbs GVW
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Logging trucks may exceed standard limits with proper permits
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Kentucky may allow additional weight allowances for timber if hauling logs directly from harvest sites
Routes and Restrictions
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Logging trucks must follow approved state and county routes
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Certain bridges and roads have special weight restrictions
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Some rural or forest roads require special routing approvals
How to Apply for a Kentucky Forest & Logging Permit
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Determine your vehicle type and weight
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Choose permit type: single-trip or annual
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Provide route information and trip dates
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Submit application to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC)
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Pay applicable fees
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Display permit in vehicle cab for inspection
Permits can be obtained online at https://www.kentuckytruckingonline.com/
Enforcement
Kentucky law enforcement and KYTC officers check permits at:
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Weigh stations
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Ports of entry
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Roadside inspections
Operating without the proper logging permit can result in:
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Fines
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Trip delays
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Out-of-service orders
Best Practices for Compliance
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Always check route restrictions before hauling
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Maintain up-to-date weight and vehicle records
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Carry permits in the vehicle cab
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Renew annual permits before expiration
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Coordinate with local counties if hauling on secondary roads
Key Takeaways
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Kentucky requires forest and logging permits for overweight and over-dimension timber haulers
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Single-trip and annual permits are available depending on frequency of hauling
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Compliance protects roads and bridges and avoids fines
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Permits must be visible and valid during all operations