Farm Guide
Farm Equipment on the Highway

Farm Equipment Rules

Slow-Moving Vehicle Sign
HTA 76, Reg. 616

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Purpose of a slow-moving vehicle sign

A slow-moving vehicle sign (sign) warns other road users that the vehicle displaying the sign is travelling at 40 km/h or less.

What type of vehicle requires a sign?

Tractors and SPIH must display a sign on the rear. If one of these machines is towing one or more implements the sign or an additional sign, must be displayed on the rear of the combination.

Any vehicle including, but not limited to, construction equipment, street sweepers, tow motors, fork lifts, etc., that are not capable of attaining and sustaining a speed greater than 40 km/h must also display a sign. If one of these machines is towing a trailer(s), implement(s) or device(s), the sign or an additional sign, must be displayed on the rear of the combination.

When is a sign prohibited on a vehicle?

Only slow-moving vehicles or vehicles towed by slow moving vehicles are permitted to display a sign. A sign is prohibited from being displayed on a vehicle travelling in excess of 40 km/h.

Note: A tractor, combine, etc., on a float or trailer is considered a load, and it is recommended any visible sign be covered or removed.

When is a sign not required on a slow-moving vehicle?

A sign is not required when directly crossing a road with a vehicle or a combination mentioned above.

Towing implements with trucks

When towing an implement (e.g., wagon, tillage equipment, a header wagon, etc.) with a truck, a sign should be placed on the rear of the combination and the combination must travel at or under 40 km/h.

Where must the sign be located

The sign should be placed as close as practical to the centre of the rear of the vehicle and between .6 m (2 ft) and 2 m (6 ft.) above the road:

• it must be clearly visible for a distance of not less than 150 m (500 ft);
• the regulation sets out the minimum dimensions, shape, colour and reflectivity of the sign. The sign may be larger provided each dimension is increased by the same amount; and
• a sign should be replaced when faded or damaged.

Are signs prohibited on fixed objects?

Yes. Attaching a sign to a fixed object, such as a roadside mailbox or driveway marker, is prohibited if it can be seen from the road.

Municipalities can post caution signs to warn motorists that slow moving vehicles often travel on their roads.

Are some slow-moving vehicles exempt?

Yes. Bicycles, mopeds and disabled vehicles being towed do not have to display the sign. Horse-drawn vehicles driven by a person whose religious beliefs do not permit him or her to use the sign are also exempt; however, the back of the carriage must be outlined with reflective tape that is visible from at least 150 m (500 ft).