Trailer Width Limit - The Hull Truth

TMG 57 · 06-01-2007, 07:58 AM

How closely is the 8'6" towing width limit enforced? Seems like there are a lot of boats just a few inches wider in the beam. Are people really getting permits for them?

Eyehooker · 06-01-2007, 08:13 AM

All depends in what State-- if 8' you will get caught-- in 8'6" State might be able to push ie 8'10" like hydrasport-- get them if caught to measure at stern LOL maybe? Here in WV they gets us a toll booth but we are usually really too wide w/o a permit 9' piece of equipment-- fine aren't too bad usually around $ 200.00

surveyingdawg · 06-01-2007, 08:21 AM

I am going to the Keys next week and got a permit for FL just because of the horror stories I have heard from folks once they get in the Keys.

Lazy_Iguana · 06-01-2007, 08:34 AM

FL is an 8 1/2 foot state.

However is it enforced? I guess that depends on who pulls you over. A FL DOT cop is trouble. He knows what the trailer laws are. The average patrol cop may or may not know about trailer load limits. Some are on the ball and know what is up and others only know the location of the nearest Dunkin Donuts that gives cops free coffee.

As for me, I believe my trailer is in fact over the limit. The used boat I just got has a beam of 8.5 feet. Exactly the legal limit for FL. But I have trailer guide posts that stick out . So if you measure the trailer width at the guide posts, I am probably a few inches over the limit. I would trailer to the keys without worrying about it too much. I do not know if trailer guide posts count for width measurement or not.

If you are pulling something obviously over the limit then I would pay more attention to getting a permit. How wide is your boat?

TMG 57 · 06-01-2007, 08:44 AM

Quote:

Lazy_Iguana - 6/1/2007 6:34 AM

If you are pulling something obviously over the limit then I would pay more attention to getting a permit. How wide is your boat?

Sold my boat - starting to shop. New boat will be rack stored, but I'm considering whether I will want the option of towing. Choices.

Eyehooker · 06-01-2007, 08:51 AM

Man that cured the problem--

Nice to get the 2nd good day of boating

Flot · 06-01-2007, 09:28 AM

I'm under the impression that nearly all "wide" trailers have an 8'6" wheelbase. I don't know that guide posts would technically count against you - just like I doubt that side mirrors count against a tractor-trailer. (could be wrong though)

Down here in South FL you see people dragging all kinds of boats behind all kinds of vehicles...

peytonlac · 06-01-2007, 10:59 AM

i have heard a lot of stories about the keys, especially florida city on the way in. maybe someone can chime in, i will be trailering my 10'4" beam boat down in July for a tourney on a buddies triler with another buddies truck, ie, i dont plan on getting any special permit.

rdking625 · 06-01-2007, 12:13 PM

If your trailoring a 10' plus beam , you would be crazy not to get a permit .. Usually anything over 9' will get you stopped and cited..Permit fee is about $45.00 ..lot less than getting a fine and having to get permit to move boat anyway any further..Just my advise as a professional hauler ..Get the permit and flags and banners needed..Less hassle in the long run.