(a) General rule.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on highways of containerized cargo which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross or maximum axle weights specified in Subchapter C (relating to maximum weights of vehicles). Except as set forth in subsection (b), the weight of any combination permitted under this section shall not exceed 90,000 pounds overall gross weight and 21,000 pounds on any axle. A brake retarder is not required on a combination permitted under this section while the combination is operated within the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia. A vehicle operating under a permit authorized under this section may be driven 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except on holidays and in inclement weather.

(b) Refrigerated meat products.--An annual permit may be issued authorizing the movement on specified highways of containerized cargo consisting of refrigerated meat products which exceeds the maximum vehicle gross weight or maximum axle weights specified in Subchapter C, subject to the following conditions:

(1) The vehicle must be a six-axle combination - three-axle truck tractor.

(2) Gross vehicular weight must not exceed 107,500 pounds.

(3) Maximum weight on any axle must not exceed 21,000 pounds.

(4) Specified highways and routes may only be permitted in the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia.

(5) Travel is authorized 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except in inclement weather.

(Dec. 28, 1994, P.L.1450, No.172, eff. 60 days; Feb. 23, 1996, P.L.21, No.8, eff. 60 days; July 11, 1996, P.L.660, No.115, eff. 60 days; July 14, 2005, P.L.285, No.50, eff. 60 days; July 20, 2017, P.L.318, No.24, eff. 60 days)

2017 Amendment. Act 24 amended subsec. (b)(5).

Cross References. Section 4974 is referred to in sections 1943, 4962 of this title.