News release

Regulation Change Will Improve Truck Efficiency

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal (Oct. 2007 - Feb. 2021)

A change to provincial regulations for weight limits on specified provincial roads will allow truckers to carry larger, more efficient loads.

The amended regulations create a new class of intermediate weight roads that will allow 47,500 kilograms to be carried on a specified six-axle tractor trailer.

Most of the newly classified roads previously came under the designation of, all other highways, in the regulations and had a limit of 41,500 kilograms. The change was requested by the trucking industry.

"An increase of 6,000 kilograms on these tractor trailers will actually reduce pavement damage because fewer trips will be required to move a fixed amount of product," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Brooke Taylor. "In fact, because the weight of the trailer is being spread over more axles, it means there will be less wear and tear on the roads."

A complete list of newly designated roads and a technical description of the approved truck specifications is available on the department's website at: http://www.gov.ns.ca/tran/trucking/vehiclewghtsdims.asp .

The changes support the province's Better Regulation Initiative, aimed at maintaining the benefits of regulation while making it easier to do business in Nova Scotia.