• Whether your camping travels include a visit to Ohio's Amish country, the shores of Lake Erie or historical sites such as those related to Ohio's iron and steel industry, you are subject to a few specific rules of the road. The fifth-wheel trailer towing laws in Ohio are simple and important for your safety and the safety of other vehicle operators. Very little is required in the way of special equipment. A few restrictions apply, so keep these Ohio rules for fifth-wheels in mind.
  
  

Trailer Definition

• In Ohio, a fifth-wheel trailer is defined as a vehicle that, based on its weight and size, is allowed to be moved along highways without any special permit. The gross area of a fifth-wheel trailer is no greater than 400 square feet. The forward section is raised to create a floor plan with two levels. The trailer is towed behind a vehicle, usually a truck that has a fifth-wheel hitch installed.
  
  

Size Regulations

• In Ohio, a fifth-wheel trailer should not exceed a height 13.5 feet. Its width should not extend beyond 8.5 feet. The maximum length a fifth-wheel trailer should reach is 40 feet. Triple towing is permitted in Ohio with a fifth-wheel trailer as long as certain limitations are met. The combined length of the towing vehicle and any one or two vehicles towed behind it is 65 feet.
  
  

Equipment Required

• For towing a fifth-wheel trailer, safety chains and a breakaway switch are required equipment. A fire extinguisher must be on board the fifth-wheel trailer. As with all vehicles in Ohio, turn signals and brake lights must be operable on the fifth-wheel. While flares and reflective signals are not a requirement, they are highly advised. While there is no mandatory rule about having lights on when windshield wipers are needed, using headlights for towing in cloudy conditions is advised. Trailer brakes are a requirement on fifth-wheel trailers that weigh 2,000 lbs. or more.
  
  

Other Restrictions

• Riding in fifth-wheel trailers is not permitted. At any time, trailers including fifth-wheel trailers may be restricted or barred. At any time, tire chains may be required because of road conditions that become hazardous. Rest areas can accommodate fifth-wheel trailers for a maximum of three hours. Overnight parking in rest areas is not allowed.