Special Permits for Moving Modular and Manufactured Homes in NY

Nov. 19, 2025, 6:34 p.m.
Transporting modular and manufactured homes in New York requires a specialized understanding of oversize permits, routing rules, escort requirements, and unique restrictions that apply specifically to these types of moves. New York heavily regulates home transport due to size, height, and safety concerns—especially when moving through dense areas or state highways with low clearances. This guide breaks down everything carriers need to know.
Mobile Home Permits for New York

1. Why Modular and Manufactured Home Moves Require Special Permits

Manufactured and modular homes typically exceed standard legal dimensions, including:

  • Width: Often 12–16 feet (legal limit is 8'6")

  • Height: Builds can exceed 13'6" depending on the model

  • Length: Many sections run 60–75+ feet long

  • Weight: Some sections qualify as overweight depending on materials and chassis

Because these homes are non-divisible and oversize by design, New York requires OS/OW Special Hauling Permits for each move.

2. Which Agency Issues Permits for Home Moves?

In New York, different jurisdictions may require permits:

 NYSDOT (Statewide Moves)

For moves on state highways, interstates, and major routes.

 Local Permits

Required by many:

  • Counties

  • Townships

  • Villages

Especially when homes must pass through small municipalities or use local roads.

 NYC DOT (if traveling in the Five Boroughs)

NYC has separate, stricter oversize rules. Most modular home moves avoid NYC due to height/width restrictions.

3. Permit Types Required for Home Transport

 Single-Trip Oversize Permit

Mandatory for each individual home section being transported.

 Overweight Permit (if needed)

Some homes exceed weight limits, especially modular units with heavier framing.

Special Hauling Permit for Modular Homes

New York treats manufactured homes as a specialized load category with additional safety requirements.

County/Local Oversize Permits

Many municipalities impose additional requirements—especially on rural backroads or areas with limited infrastructure.

4. Size & Weight Limits for Modular Home Moves

New York allows certain increased oversize thresholds specifically for modular home transport:

Width

  • Standard oversize limit: Up to 14 feet without special review

  • Many modular homes: 14'–16' (require additional routing and escorts)

Height

  • Legal height: 13’6"

  • Modular homes often run 14–15 feet, requiring route clearance checks

Length

Manufactured home sections may be:

  • Up to 75 feet for the unit

  • 95+ feet total length with tractor and escort space

Weight

  • Some modular units exceed 80,000 lbs gross

  • Axle configuration determines overweight eligibility

5. Escort / Pilot Car Requirements

NY requires escorts depending on width, length, and routing:

Typical escort triggers:

  • Width over 12' = 1 escort

  • Width over 14' = 2 escorts

  • Length over 80' = 1 escort

  • Height requiring pole car for clearance checks

Routes with narrow lanes, low bridges, or sharp curves may require additional escorts as directed by NYSDOT engineers.

6. Travel Time Restrictions

Home moves are subject to strict time-of-day rules:

Allowed Travel

  • Half-hour after sunrise to half-hour before sunset

  • Monday–Friday (most moves)

Common Restrictions

  • No travel during peak traffic near major metro areas

  • No weekend or holiday travel

  • Winter restrictions depending on weather and visibility

  • No travel during high-wind advisories (important for wide homes)

7. Route Surveys & Engineering Reviews

Modular and manufactured home moves may require a route survey, especially when:

  • Height exceeds 14 feet

  • Width exceeds 14 feet

  • Traveling through areas with low-clearance bridges

  • Route includes older infrastructure

NYSDOT may require:

  • Bridge clearance verification

  • Turning radius assessments

  • Road condition reviews

  • Spotter instructions for difficult intersections

8. Safety & Equipment Requirements for Home Moves

Typical requirements include:

  • Oversize/wide load signs (front & rear)

  • Amber rotating or strobe lights

  • Flags on widest points

  • Certified escort vehicles

  • FMCSA-compliant securement methods

  • Wind load and stability precautions

Manufactured home carriers must also use:

  • Structural support dollies

  • Proper towing hitches

  • Safety chains

  • Brake checks and lighting compliance

9. Insurance & Documentation Requirements

Carriers must maintain:

  • Active USDOT/MC authority (if for-hire)

  • Liability insurance meeting NY standards

  • Permit documents in the vehicle at all times

  • Proof of escort certification (when required)

In some cases, local municipalities may require additional insurance per move.

10. Tips for Smooth Modular Home Moves in New York

  • Plan routes early—clearance issues are common in NY.

  • Check wind forecasts for wide homes.

  • Order local permits well in advance (some counties take several days).

  • Use experienced escort/pilot car operators familiar with rural and suburban NY.

  • Avoid peak season delays (spring construction season sees heavy permit traffic).

  • Verify home dimensions before applying—factory specs can vary.