When it comes to exploring the great outdoors and experiencing the joys of RV living, one crucial factor is often overlooked – understanding how tall an RV can be. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 7 essential facts you need to know about RV height restrictions, including average heights for various types of motorhomes and the importance of knowing your rig’s true height.
Key Takeaways
- Different states have varying height restrictions for RVs, so it’s important to research and plan your route accordingly.
- The legal limit for an RV’s height while driving on the road is 13 feet 6 inches, with anything taller requiring a special permit and planning beforehand.
- Knowing the exact dimensions of your RV can help avoid potential damage from obstacles such as bridges, overpasses, and low-hanging branches. It also ensures safe travels on highways and other routes with clearance limitations.
- Accurate measurement of your RV’s height is crucial to ensure a stress – free journey. Always refer to your owner’s manual for actual dimensions and use a measuring tape or laser measurement device to measure from the highest point down to the ground.
Understanding Height Restrictions For RVs
Different states have varying height restrictions for RVs, and it’s important to research these regulations before hitting the road.
Different Height Restrictions Across States
It’s important for RV owners to be aware of different height restrictions across states to ensure safe travels and avoid any potential damages to their vehicle. The following table provides a quick reference for height restrictions in various states:
| State | Height Restriction |
|---|---|
| California | 14 feet |
| Florida | 13 feet 6 inches |
| Illinois | 13 feet 6 inches |
| Michigan | 13 feet 6 inches |
| New York | 13 feet 6 inches |
| Oregon | 14 feet |
| Texas | 14 feet |
While these restrictions are standard for most states, it is essential to verify the height restrictions for the specific states you will be traveling through. This will allow you to plan your routes accordingly and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Maximum Height For An RV
As an RV enthusiast, it’s important to know the maximum height for an RV due to standard restrictions. The legal limit for height while driving on the road is 13 feet 6 inches.
Anything taller than this requires a special permit and route planning beforehand. It’s also crucial to consider clearance restrictions such as bridges, overpasses, and tunnels that may have lower clearances than your RV’s maximum height.
Knowing the exact dimensions of your RV will ensure safe travels and prevent damage from hitting obstacles on the road.
Average Height For Various Types Of RVs
As an RV enthusiast, knowing the average height of various types of RVs is crucial. Class A motorhomes are typically 13 to 14 feet tall, while a Class B motorhome averages around 8 feet in height. Meanwhile, a Class C RV has an average height of 10 feet. It’s essential to know your RV’s exact dimensions for clearance purposes and to avoid potential damage from obstacles on the road. Keep in mind that the standard clearance for an RV is about 16 feet or more, but the maximum allowable height due to restrictions is only up to 13 feet six inches. So before you hit the road with your travel trailer or fifth-wheel RV, make sure you double-check if it fits under any overpasses or drive-thru areas along your route!
Importance Of Knowing Your RV’s Height
Knowing your RV’s height is crucial to avoid potential damage from low bridges or obstacles on the road, as well as ensuring safe travels on highways and other routes with clearance limitations.
Avoiding Damage To The RV And Obstacles
As someone who loves RVing, it’s important to avoid any damage to your vehicle and obstacles on the road. Here are a few facts to keep in mind:
- Knowing the height of your RV can help you avoid low – hanging branches, bridges, and other obstacles that could cause damage.
- Be mindful of overhanging trees or signage when pulling into camping sites or gas stations.
- Always check for clearance signs before going through tunnels to ensure there’s enough room for your RV.
- Slow down on uneven road surfaces to prevent any possible jostling and damage to your RV’s roof and sides.
- Consider investing in an RV height gauge if you frequently travel through areas with low clearance.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure safer travels and protect your beloved RV from any unnecessary damages!
Ensuring Safe Travels On Roads And Highways
As an RV owner, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re taking all necessary precautions for safe travels on roads and highways. One aspect of this is knowing the height of your RV to avoid clearance issues such as hitting bridges or low-hanging tree branches.
It’s also important to be aware of the different height restrictions across states and understand the maximum height allowed for your particular type of RV.
For example, did you know that site 60 at Bluewater Key RV Resort in Key West, Florida requires a minimum height clearance of 12 feet? And with over 60% increase in RV ownership since 1980, there are more vehicles on the road than ever before.
Measuring The Height Of Your RV
To accurately measure the height of your RV, refer to your owner’s manual for dimensions and use a measuring tape or laser measurement device from the highest point to the ground.
Reference Owner’s Manual For Actual Dimensions
It’s crucial to know the precise dimensions of your RV for clearance and safety reasons. Different models and makes of RVs can vary in height, weight, and length.
To accurately determine your RV’s true measurements, you should consult the owner’s manual provided by the manufacturer.
For example, if you’re driving a Class A motorhome model from one manufacturer to another with different height specifications, the discrepancy in measurements could cause clearance issues.
It could also impact access to underground parking garages or low bridges during travel.
Measure From The Highest Point To The Ground
As an RV owner, it’s important to know the true height of your rig in order to avoid any clearance issues. When measuring your RV’s height, make sure to measure from the highest point down to the ground. Here are some steps to follow when measuring:
- Refer to your owner’s manual for the actual dimensions of your RV.
- Park on a level surface and make sure that all tires are properly inflated.
- Measure from the highest point of your RV, which is usually the top of any air conditioning units or antennas, down to the ground.
- Use a measuring tape or laser measurement device for accuracy.
- Double – check and compare your measurements with the height restrictions of bridges, tunnels, and other potential obstacles on your route.
By accurately measuring the height of your RV, you can ensure a safe and stress-free journey on roads and highways. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Use A Measuring Tape Or Laser Measurement Device
When it comes to measuring the height of your RV, there are a few methods you can use. One option is to use a measuring tape or laser measurement device.
To do this, park your RV on level ground and measure from the highest point on the roof down to the ground.
It’s important to know the true height of your RV for clearance purposes. Many bridges and overpasses have low clearances that could cause damage or even accidents if your vehicle is too tall.
Additionally, some campgrounds and parks may have height restrictions as well.
Conclusion
Knowing the height of your RV is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip. There are different height restrictions across states, so it’s important to research before hitting the road.
Measuring the height of your RV accurately can avoid damage and ensure safe travels on roads and highways. Don’t forget to check garage door heights, especially if you plan on storing your RV in one.
With these facts, you’ll be prepared for any obstacles that may come your way while traveling with an RV.
FAQs:
1. What is the average height of an RV?
The average height of an RV ranges between 10 to 13 feet tall, depending on the type and model.
2. Can I drive my RV through low-clearance areas such as bridges or tunnels?
No, it is not recommended to drive your RV through areas with low clearances as this could result in damage to your vehicle or cause accidents. Always check that any routes you plan on taking are suitable for your specific RV’s size and height before embarking on a journey.
3. How do I measure the height of my RV accurately?
To measure the height of your RV accurately, park it on level ground and use a tape measure to determine its tallest point from ground level up.
4. Are there restrictions on how tall my RV can be when driving on public roads?
Yes, most states have limits set within their legal regulations on how high a vehicle can be allowed onto public roads based upon their length & weight ratings – exceeding these limitations could lead drivers facing penalties/fines/charges from law enforcement officials if caught violating traffic laws which often vary among different state/provincial jurisdictions depending upon road safety standards established by each respective jurisdiction individually.