Virginia Hay Haulers Get October HOS and Oversize Waivers

Virginia is temporarily easing certain trucking requirements to help move hay during a prolonged drought. Land Line Media reported the relief September 29, and the Virginia Department of Transportation’s official waiver confirms that eligible carriers may receive registration, licensing, width and hours-of-service relief while transporting emergency hay to, through or from the Commonwealth. The trucking provisions run from October 1 through October 30, 2026.

The waiver activates emergency relief under 49 CFR 390.23 for drivers providing direct assistance to the hay response. It also allows certain over-width movements on roads controlled by VDOT, subject to limits. Covered vehicles must not exceed 12 feet in overall width or 14 feet in height, and width relief does not apply on interstate highways unless a related federal exemption is available. Applicable hauling permits and safety requirements still matter when a load exceeds normal dimensions.

The order does not create a blanket exemption for unrelated agricultural freight or routine operations. Relief lasts only while a motor carrier or driver is directly supporting emergency hay deliveries, or until the waiver expires, whichever comes first. Drivers remain responsible for safe operation, and a carrier should be able to show that each trip falls within the emergency purpose.

Before dispatch, fleets should carry a copy of the waiver, confirm the planned route and check bridge, height and local restrictions. Dispatchers should document the hay shipper, destination, load dimensions and dates of direct assistance. Drivers using hours-of-service relief should continue keeping clear duty records and should not drive when fatigued. The waiver improves access to feed, but it does not suspend the judgment and documentation needed for a safe roadside inspection.