Why Special Permits Are Required
Mobile homes and modular units often exceed legal dimensions for width, height, or overall length for standard commercial vehicles. Moving them without proper authorization can damage road infrastructure or pose safety risks. Because of this, special permits are legally required whenever dimensions or configurations exceed established limits.
New Mexico law also explicitly references manufactured home moves within its motor vehicle code, recognizing them as requiring special permits to exceed size/weight limits under statute (e.g., NM Stat § 66‑7‑413).
What the Rules Say
1. Special Permits Under State Law
Under New Mexico statutes, the state may issue special permits that authorize the movement of vehicles or loads exceeding maximum size or weight limits. These permits can include specific route restrictions, escort requirements, and conditions for safe transport.
For manufactured homes, the statute indicates that information related to their permits must be provided to the appropriate tax authority when the structure is moved (this helps facilitate tax compliance and record‑keeping).
Typical Permit Requirements
According to permitting guidance used by carriers in New Mexico:
Dimension & Weight Guidelines
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Manufactured homes and modular buildings often exceed standard length, width, or height limits.
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Special permits are typically needed when a structure exceeds legal limits such as:
• Width: Over 8 ft 6 in
• Height: Over 14 ft
• Length: May exceed 65 ft or more depending on configuration and combined load dimensions.
Specifically for manufactured homes, some state references allow widths up to approximately 16 ft and heights up to 15 ft 6 in if properly permitted.
2. Permit Types
For these special oversized loads, carriers may need:
Single‑Trip Permits
Issued for one‑time moves of a specific structure from point A to B.
Annual Permits
For businesses that regularly move mobile homes or modular buildings within the state.
3. Escort and Safety Requirements
Depending on width and route, New Mexico rules may require escort vehicles:
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No escort: for narrower moves (e.g., under 12 ft).
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One escort: for moderately wide structures (e.g., 12–14 ft).
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Two escorts or law enforcement: for very wide moves (e.g., over 14 ft).
Additional safety measures generally include:
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“Oversize Load” signage at front and rear
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Amber lights and warning flags
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Two‑way communication equipment between truck and escorts
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Compliance with weather and travel restrictions (daylight travel only, wind speed limits, etc.).
4. Travel & Routing Rules
Permits for mobile homes and modular buildings often include:
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Designated routes that avoid low bridges, tight turns, or weight‑restricted roads
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Daylight travel only (sunrise to sunset)
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Restrictions on holidays or during high wind conditions due to safety risks.
5. How to Apply
Many carriers use https://www.newmexicotruckingonline.com/
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Carrier and vehicle information
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Load dimensions and weight
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Proposed route
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Payment information
Once approved, the permit must be carried in the vehicle (digital or printed) at all times during transport.
6. Penalties for Non‑Compliance
Operating without the required special permit, or violating permit conditions, can result in:
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Fines (e.g., $50–$1,000 depending on violation and jurisdiction)
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Trip suspension or vehicle impoundment
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Loss of permit privileges
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Potential liability for damages incurred during illegal movement.
NM Special Permits for Mobile Homes and Modular Buildings