Height limitDenmark
Traffic rules
Denmark
1. Height limit
A height limit prohibits vehicles whose total height exceeds the value shown from entering or passing a road section, bridge, tunnel, gateway or other structure. The vehicle’s height includes its load and any equipment attached above it.
Drivers of high vehicles must know their exact height, observe advance warnings and use an alternative route when necessary. They should never rely only on visual judgement or attempt to pass beneath a structure when safe clearance is uncertain.
How should you read a low-bridge height restriction in Denmark?
Look for the locally prescribed height restriction or clearance warning near bridges and urban underpasses. The displayed clearance is normally in metres. A warning may describe a hazard ahead; a prohibitory sign indicates a route you cannot enter if your vehicle exceeds the limit.
🔗 retsinformation.dk • Danish signing order BEK 425/2023 — operative sign and marking descriptions
Vehicles higher than indicated prohibited.
English • Traffic sign C 42 • Vehicle height limit. Vehicles higher than indicated, including their load, are prohibited.
Dansk • Tavle C 42 • Køretøjshøjde. Tavlen forbyder kørsel med køretøjer, hvis højde inklusive læs er større end den angivne.
Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Retsinformation.dk • Bekendtgørelse nr. 425/2023, § 19
SVG source: Gigillo83, drawn by original of Vejdirektoratet • Public domain • Original revision 2013-06-08. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Does a roof load count when checking vehicle height in Denmark?
Yes for practical clearance: measure the vehicle at its highest point with its load and fitted accessories, such as a roof box, bicycle or roof rack. Check the local legal measurement rules as well; an empty vehicle’s registered height is not enough when equipment has been added.
🔗 retsinformation.dk • Danish signing order BEK 425/2023 — operative sign and marking descriptions
What should you do if your vehicle is too high for a bridge or tunnel in Denmark?
Do not try to squeeze under the structure. Use the signed alternative route and, if you are already close to the obstruction, stop where safe and seek traffic-control assistance rather than reversing unpredictably into moving traffic.
🔗 retsinformation.dk • Danish signing order BEK 425/2023 — operative sign and marking descriptions
