June 10, 2024
Effective February 1, 2023, any carriers intending to operate hydro vac trucks with front-mounted hose reels (including operating controls) extending between 1 meter and 1.4 meters from the front bumper, and with an overall length not exceeding 13.5 meters, must secure a letter of authorization (LOA) to obtain oversize permits as part of an ongoing trial.
The previous allowances outlined in CVSE’s Compliance Circular No. 11/12, which permit hydro vac trucks with front-mounted hose reels up to 1 meter in front projection from the bumper and with an overall length not exceeding 13.5 meters to operate without requiring an LOA or permit, will remain in place. This provision is in line with the adaptation to new vehicle technologies and equipment enhancements not considered when the legislation was initially established or revised.
Under the general authority, vehicles meeting these criteria may operate legally without permits as long as the front projection does not exceed 1 meter from the bumper and the total length remains within 13.5 meters. However, it is critical that these hose reels do not obstruct the driver’s clear sightlines and that their design and installation comply with the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) specifications to ensure road safety is not compromised.
Enforcement Notice:
Any carrier operating a hydro vac truck with front-mounted hose reels projecting between 1 meter and 1.4 meters from the front bumper and not exceeding a total length of 13.5 meters, without an LOA, will be subject to enforcement actions.
Carriers can request a letter of authorization to operate hydro vac trucks with a front projection of 1 meter up to a maximum of 1.4 meters, provided the overall length with the hose reel does not surpass 13.5 meters. These LOAs will be issued on a trial basis, with the trial period extended until July 1, 2026. During this period, the CVSE will closely monitor the safety, performance, and usage of these units.
Similar to the general authority granted for front projection allowances, hydro vac trucks operating under a letter of authorization must ensure that the driver’s visibility of the highway is not significantly hindered. The hose reel’s design and attachment must adhere to OEM specifications and must not adversely impact road safety.
More Information
If you have a current LOA under this Circular and wish to extend please contact Commercial Transport. If you do not have a current LOA allowed under this circular and wish to obtain one, please email Commercial.Transport@gov.bc.ca
For more information on regulatory compliance, please refer to Compliance Circular 02-22.