Actions in progress

Review and streamline the single-trip transportation permit

Status: Action in progress

What we heard

Single-trip transport permits have lengthy timelines for approvals, which can lead to scheduling issues and costly delays for mining companies.

Our plan

The Ministry of Transportation has been enhancing its Oversize/Overweight Permit program by making improvements to the single trip permit application and administrative processes. In the summer of 2016, the ministry announced changes to the duration of a single trip from 4-5 days to 7 days, and permitted weekend travel for loads over annual dimensions (except police escorted loads), giving carriers more flexibility to complete their trips. In addition, improvements are being made to enhance the current permit structure by adding both an enhanced annual permit and enhanced project permit with larger dimensions. The new permit system will help reduce the number of single trips required by carriers, while ensuring Ontario maintains its strong road safety record. The target implementation date is January 2018.

The ministry is also considering various options for regulation and/or certification of non-police escorting, including using a third party to conduct the training and testing, which will help reduce delays for carriers. The target implementation date is July 2018.

The ministry will continue to work closely with its partners and stakeholders in the carrier industry on all of these proposals. Response from the ministry’s stakeholders to date has been positive and supportive.

Actions tracking

Review safety requirements for and inspection of tow trucks

Status: Action tracking

What we heard

Tow trucks must meet safety standards as outlined in the Commercial Vehicles and Tow Trucks regulations to ensure that they can safely perform their duties.

Our plan

As of January 1, 2017, all tow truck operators have been required to hold a valid Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) certificate. This will provide oversight of the towing industry and support the government’s commitment to improve road safety. In fall 2017, the Ministry of Transportation began consultations with the towing industry on the development of additional regulations detailing the specific requirements for tow truck operators, vehicles and drivers. These additional requirements for tow trucks under the Highway Traffic Act will be phased in over time.