Permitting Process, Forms & Invoicing
Posting and Bonding Overview
A posted roadway is any state or locally owned highway that has a weight restriction. The need for a weight
restriction is determined through an engineering and traffic study (
Publication 46)
which examines the existing roadway conditions, including the pavement structure. The study will determine if increased traffic would weaken a roadway and therefore if the roadway should
be posted. If a hauler wants to utilize a posted roadway, they must determine if they classify as local traffic or qualify for local determination. If they do not qualify for either of
these classifications, the hauler can apply for a permit which requires an Excess Maintenance Agreement (EMA) with a bond.
An EMA ensures that the hauler completes any maintenance beyond the normal routine work. If the hauler does not complete the required maintenance, then their permit will be suspended.
As part of the EMA and bonding process, an on-site inspection is completed by PennDOT to document the pre-existing condition of the roadway.
Depending on the type of hauling operation, one of the three types of permits is selected. For more information please review
Publication 23, Chapter 15 of the Maintenance Manual that details the permitting
requirements. Below are links to the applicable forms and applications.
Excess Maintenance Agreement (M-4902EMA)
Application to Add or Remove a Section of Highway (M-4902APP)
Other forms the USER may need throughout the EMA
Invoicing Information
Haulers may be billed for a variety of cost recovery items. Costs billable to the hauler may include, but are not limited to, Initial Inspections, Interim Inspections, Final Inspections,
Road Condition Surveys and any damages that result from the hauler’s use of the road as determined during inspections and surveys.
All payments for invoices shall be sent to:
PA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
OFFICE OF COMPTROLLER OPERATIONS
AR PENNDOT – NON-APRAS
PO BOX 15758
HARRISBURG, PA 17105