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Restricted Clearances

The UTC has rules in Chapter 480-60 WAC for overhead, track, and side clearances in rail yards and company facilities where railroad employees operate equipment. In general, UTC rules require overhead clearances of at least 22 feet 6 inches above the rail, and side clearances of at least 8 feet 6 inches from the track’s centerline.

If a restricted clearance cannot be avoided, the company must submit a petition to the UTC requesting an exemption. The petition must explain the reason for the exemption and include a statement from the railroad confirming that it does not oppose the request.

UTC staff inspects facilities with approved restricted clearance exemptions every few years.

Petition Form 

Contact Us 

For questions, please email Rail@utc.wa.gov. 

To submit a complaint, use the Rail Safety Complaint Form.