Transporting a flagpole in Norway: rules for long loads
Published Written by Flagpole Guides
This page is an English translation of the Norwegian original. Where the two versions differ, the Norwegian text is the original.
A flagpole of 8, 10 or 12 metres is longer than most cars and trailers. Many poles are therefore delivered by the retailer, some in several sections. Anyone collecting the pole themselves is carrying a long load, and the rules in the regulation on the use of vehicles (forskrift om bruk av kjøretøy) apply.
The rules for protruding loads
Section 3-4 of the regulation on the use of vehicles has rules on loads protruding from the vehicle:
| Situation | Rule |
|---|---|
| Load protruding more than 1 m at the front | Requires permission from the Public Roads Administration |
| Load protruding at the front | Marked at its end |
| Load protruding more than 1 m at the rear | Marked at its end with a red and white device |
| In the dark or poor visibility, more than 1 m at the rear | Additionally a light showing red to the rear and sides |
| Load more than 15 cm out at the side | Requires permission from the Public Roads Administration at widths up to 2.55 m |
Under section 3-4 no. 3, the rear marking is a device in alternating red and white with a visible area of at least 250 cm² from all sides, with the red material reflective. For occasional transport, the marking can be done in another clear way. The light in the dark has a light opening of at least 30 cm² and is clearly visible from at least 150 metres.
Permitted length
Section 3-4 has no separate limit for how far a load can protrude at the rear. The maximum permitted length of the vehicle and combination, including the load, is in chapter 5 of the regulation. Longer transports require a dispensation from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (Statens vegvesen). With a car and trailer, it is the length of the whole combination that counts.
Securing the load
The regulation has rules on placing and securing loads in sections 3-2 and 3-3. The load is secured so that it does not shift or fall off, and the lashings are fastened so that loose ends cannot injure other road users. A long pole on a roof rack or trailer can flex and swing at speed and in bends, and is therefore often supported at several points.
The pole in transit
- Glass fibre: light, but the surface can be damaged by straps and edges. Many use protection where the straps lie.
- Aluminium: can get dents and scratches. Anodised and painted surfaces are easily damaged.
- Finial and pulley: are often removed for transport.
- Sectional poles: some poles are supplied in two or more sections that are assembled on site.
Delivery
Many retailers deliver the pole to the door. Flaggstangsfabrikken states that delivery usually takes 3 to 4 weeks, and that it can also install the pole. Delivery of long goods is often a separate cost, as described in the guide to buying a flagpole.
After transport
Once the pole has arrived, the next step is the foundation and installation. More in the guide to flagpole installation. The different types of pole and how they are built are covered in the guides to types of flagpoles and flagpole materials.
Frequently asked questions
How far can a flagpole protrude behind the car in Norway?
Section 3-4 of the regulation on the use of vehicles sets no separate limit for how far a load can protrude at the rear, but the vehicle’s permitted length including the load applies. A load protruding more than 1 metre behind the vehicle is marked with a red and white device, and in the dark also with a red light.
How is a flagpole protruding at the rear marked in Norway?
Under section 3-4 no. 3, a load protruding more than 1 metre behind the vehicle is marked at its end with a red and white device with a visible area of at least 250 cm² from all sides. For occasional transport, the marking can be done in another clear way.
Can a flagpole protrude in front of the car?
Under section 3-4, a load protruding more than 1 metre in front of the vehicle requires permission from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration. A load protruding at the front is marked.
How is the load secured?
The regulation on the use of vehicles has rules on placing and securing loads in sections 3-2 and 3-3. The load is secured so that it cannot shift or fall off, and the lashings are fastened so that loose ends cannot injure other road users.
Sources
This guide is based on the following sources, most of them in Norwegian:
- Forskrift om bruk av kjøretøy, §§ 3-2 til 3-4 – Lovdata
- Hvilken høyde skal flaggstangen ha? – Flaggstangsfabrikken (produsent)
- Guide for flagg og flaggstang – Flaggshop (forhandler)
Related guides
- Flagpole installationInstalling a flagpole in Norway: permits under the Planning and Building Act, municipal plans, the 100-metre belt, cooperatives, foundation and position.
- Types of flagpolesFlagpoles with external or internal halyard, tilting and telescopic poles, balcony poles and flag installations: the types of flagpole in Norway.
- Flagpole materialsFlagpole materials in Norway: glass fibre, aluminium, steel and wood – properties, maintenance and how coast, snow and frost in Norway affect the choice.
- Lifespan and sustainabilityHow long flagpoles and flags last in Norway, what wears them most, reuse and waste – and the custom for disposing of a worn-out Norwegian flag.