Statutory Length Limits — RCW 46.44.030
According to RCW § 46.44.030 (Maximum lengths) in Washington:
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Single vehicle / Non‑combination
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It is unlawful to operate a vehicle whose overall length, with or without load, exceeds 40 feet.
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Exceptions:
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Municipal transit vehicles, private carrier buses, school buses, travel trailers, motor homes (if ≤ 46 feet)
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Articulated auto stage: up to 61 feet (excluding bike rack extension)
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Auto recycling carriers (manufactured prior to 2005) up to 42 feet
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Truck + Semitrailer / Two trailers
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Semitrailer length: A semitrailer may not exceed 53 feet in length.
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For tractor + two trailers: the combined length of the trailers must not exceed 61 feet.
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Exception (for trailer inventory): If the trailers weigh ≤ 26,000 lbs, carry no property (they’re inventory), the total combination may be up to 82 feet.
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Truck + Trailer (or log truck + stinger‑steered pole trailer)
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A combination of truck + trailer (or log + stinger trailer) may not exceed 75 feet overall (with or without load).
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“Stinger‑steered” means the coupling device is located behind the tread of the last axle of the towing vehicle.
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Special Exceptions
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Vehicles transporting poles, pipe, machinery, or structural objects that cannot reasonably be dismembered may exceed these limits under certain circumstances (mainly emergency public utility repair). When operating at night, such loads must have adequate lighting and marker lamps on projecting ends.
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Some devices intended for safety, energy conservation, or non‑cargo use may be excluded from the length calculation.
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