The Department of Transport in collaboration with the Belize Forest Department is taking measures to improve road safety as it pertains to the movement of logs and commercial lumber. The public is hereby informed that all persons in possession of a logging license or permit from the Belize Forest Department will be required to obtain a Heavy Load Permit, as required by the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations, from the Department of Transport effective October 15th, 2022. Logging license and permit holders must also abide by the requirements as outlined in the Forest Act.

The Department of Transport and the Belize Forest Department will ensure that all trucks and trailers undergo a rigorous inspection to meet the safety standards mandated by the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations prior to the issuance of the heavy load permit.

Examples of the minimum requirements will include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Yellow warning lights placed on the roof of the motor vehicle
2. Red warning flags and other caution signs
3. Reflective tape and red reflectors on the motor vehicle and trailer
4. Minimum of three chains not less than ½ inch in thickness
5. Welded manufactured and secure metal columns on trailers

The Department of Transport and the Belize Forest Department remain committed to the improvement of safety standards on all thoroughfares in Belize. Both departments will be conducting national enforcement operations to ensure compliance with the new requirements for the transportation of logs and commercial lumber.

For more information on the requirements, applicants are encouraged to contact the Department of Transport Headquarters at 802-2038 or visit our website at transportbelize.org. Inquiries can also be made with the Belize Forest Department at 822-1524.