Florida to Reduce Regulatory Burdens on Trucks

The Florida Department of Transportation has implemented administrative rule changes to reduce the regulatory burdens on trucks, according to the state’s Gov. Richard Lynn Scott.

The changes will increase the maximum gross vehicle weight allowed for sealed containerized cargo units from 95,000 pounds to 100,000 pounds, streamline the permitting process for applicants, eliminate the requirement for trip permit applicants to submit a height survey letter prior to obtaining a permit for vehicles up to 18 feet in height, increase the number of days for which a trip permit is valid and reduce the number and type of escorts required when traveling on a limited access facility.

A properly permitted sealed truck container can now haul the same weight levels as in other surrounding states, thereby allowing Florida’s farmers and manufacturers to ship and receive goods through Florida ports that previously went through other states, the governor’s office said.

“By streamlining operations, we’ll better position Florida to capitalize on the increased trade opportunities that the expansion of the Panama Canal will bring to our communities,” Scott said in a written statement.