Kentucky’s Overweight Coal Haul Permits

Dec. 8, 2025, 7:09 p.m.
Kentucky has one of the most defined overweight permit systems for coal transportation in the United States. Because coal is a major commodity in the region, the state provides special overweight permit options that allow carriers to haul more than standard weight limits—while still protecting roads, bridges, and public safety.
Overweight Coal Haul Permits in Kentucky

1. Purpose of Kentucky’s Overweight Coal Haul Permits

Coal haul permits are designed to:

  • Enable coal producers and carriers to move heavier loads

  • Support coal industry logistics in Eastern and Western Kentucky

  • Regulate and protect highways and infrastructure

  • Keep overweight transport compliant with Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS)

These permits strike a balance between industry needs and highway safety.

2. When a Coal Haul Permit Is Required

A Kentucky overweight coal haul permit is required when:

  • A vehicle transports coal or coal by-products

  • The load exceeds 80,000 lbs gross vehicle weight

  • The load is carried on designated coal haul routes

Coal haul permits allow loads above standard maximum weights, but only within specific allowances.

3. Key Weight Allowances

Kentucky law provides specific overweight tolerances for coal haulers. Depending on the permit and route, carriers may qualify for:

  • Extended gross weight limits above 80,000 lbs

  • Increased axle weight allowances

  • Special allowances for six-axle and seven-axle configurations

Exact maximums depend on route designations under KRS 177.9771 and related statutes.

4. Coal Haul Route Requirements

Coal haul permits are typically valid only on approved coal haul routes, which include:

  • Portions of the state primary road system

  • Some secondary roads

  • County roads designated for coal transport

  • Specific industrial corridors near mining sites

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) publishes a Coal Haul Route Map to guide carriers.

Traveling on non-permitted roads can result in fines and enforcement actions.

5. Types of Coal Haul Permits in Kentucky

A. Single-Trip Coal Haul Permit

Used for one-time hauls requiring a specific route.

B. Annual Coal Haul Permit

Best for carriers operating regularly out of mines, processing plants, or rail hubs.

C. County-Specific Permits

Some counties issue additional permits for local coal routes.

D. “Coal By-Product” Permits

For materials such as:

  • Fly ash

  • Slag

  • Scrubber by-products

  • Other residual materials

6. Vehicle and Equipment Requirements

Coal haul vehicles must comply with:

  • Proper axle distribution

  • Adequate tire capacity for the load

  • Braking system requirements

  • Securement and tarp rules

  • Lighting and signage requirements

  • KYU number requirements for intrastate carriers

Dump trucks and tractor-trailers must be structurally sound to support extra weight.

7. Fees for Coal Haul Permits

Permit fees depend on:

  • Type (single-trip vs. annual)

  • Vehicle configuration

  • Route distance

  • County-specific rules (if any)

Coal haul permits are generally more expensive than standard overweight permits due to the significant additional weight allowed.

8. Enforcement and Penalties

Kentucky enforces coal haul regulations through:

  • Weigh stations

  • Mobile enforcement units

  • Roadside inspections

  • Permit audits

Penalties for non-compliance may include:

  • Overweight fines

  • Permit suspension

  • Out-of-service orders

  • Damage liability for infrastructure

Coal routes are monitored heavily because of road wear and safety concerns.

9. Tips for Coal Haulers in Kentucky

To stay compliant:

  • Always verify your route is an approved coal haul corridor

  • Ensure your truck and trailer meet axle spacing requirements

  • Carry your permit and coal documentation at all times

  • Avoid restricted bridges or local roads not part of the coal network

  • Perform daily equipment inspections due to high-weight stresses

Summary

Kentucky’s Overweight Coal Haul Permits provide essential allowances for the coal industry, enabling carriers to legally transport heavy coal loads while maintaining roadway safety. Haulers must follow strict route, weight, and vehicle requirements to avoid penalties and ensure efficient operations.