Width limitWallonia

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Wallonia. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


37. Width limit

A width limit prohibits vehicles or vehicle combinations whose total width exceeds the value shown from entering or passing a road section, bridge, tunnel, gateway or other narrow passage. The width includes the vehicle’s load and any equipment or objects extending from its sides.

Drivers must know the maximum travelling width of their vehicle and load, observe advance warnings and use an alternative route when necessary. They should never enter when sufficient lateral clearance is uncertain.

Width limit
Width and 10-tonne weight restrictions at the Godinne Bridge. (Godinne, Belgium)
Wikimedia.org • Miguel Tremblay • CC0
Which Belgian sign indicates a width limit?

Traffic sign C27 prohibits access for drivers of vehicles whose width, including their load, exceeds the width displayed on the sign.

🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code of 1 December 1975 — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

Do objects extending from the sides count?

Yes. Loads, equipment, securing devices and other projecting parts that increase the travelling width must be taken into account.

🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code of 1 December 1975 — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

What is the general maximum width of a loaded vehicle in Belgium?

For a motor vehicle, horse-drawn vehicle or trailer, the general maximum width is 2.55 metres, or 2.60 metres when the vehicle is legally constructed with that width under the technical regulations.

🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code of 1 December 1975 — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

Does a Belgian width-limit sign change priority?

No. Drivers must continue to obey traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary priority rules.

🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code of 1 December 1975 — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

What should you do at a Belgian width-limit sign if your vehicle is too wide?

Do not pass the sign. Stop where safe and follow the indicated diversion. Contact the police or road authority when turning or reversing cannot be completed safely.

🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code of 1 December 1975 — articles 6, 12, 45, 46.1 and 68.3 (C27)

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