2009 Trailering Laws

The following Rules of the Road are compiled each year via mailings to state/provincial highway departments and/or police departments. Some changes may have been made since this data was compiled. For additional regulations not addressed in this section, we suggest that you contact the state or provincial agency listed. While every attempt has been made to check this information, the Woodall’s Campground Directory cannot guarantee its accuracy, and assumes no responsibility for errors and omissions.

CALIFORNIA: Maximum RV width 102 in.; maximum motorhome length 40 ft.(45 ft. on some highways); maximum trailer length 40 ft.; maximum RV height 14 ft.; maximum combined length for two-vehicle combination, 65 ft. Riding is allowed in truck campers if passengers are seat-belted; in fifth-wheel trailers with safety glass and an audible or visual device connected with tow vehicle, plus at least one exit must be able to be opened from both outside and inside the trailer. Vehicles towing trailers or dinghies are restricted to the right-hand lane. Overnight parking in rest areas not allowed. RV Safety Requirements: Over 1,500 lbs.: trailer brakes, breakaway switch and safety chains. All power-brake systems require breakaway switch. Chains may be required during winter months on mountain roads. Driving Laws: Right turn on red permitted, unless posted otherwise (but not on red arrow). At least two/three riders for carpool lane as posted. More Information: California Highway Patrol, 444 N. 3rd St., Suite 310, Sacramento CA 95814; (916) 445-1865. www.dot.ca.gov/hq/traffopr/trucks/bus-mh/bus-map.html. Emergency number: 911.
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