If you are hauling farm equipment such as livestock trailers on Nova Scotia roads that travel faster than 40 km/hr they must be inspected. These trailers do not need to have plates or be registered (if towed by a bona fide farmer, but do need a valid safety inspection. These inspections must be done every two years.
Farm equipment displaying a slow moving vehicle sign does not have to be inspected but it must not travel faster than 40 km/hr.
It has been brought to our attention that there is unsafe transportation of livestock taking place on Nova Scotia roads. Having loaded livestock trailers with bald tires and no safety chains for example jeopardizes not only the safety of the driver towing the trailer, but other motorists and the onboard livestock. These infractions of vehicle compliance are also subject to fines. It is the mandate of Vehicle Compliance under the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal to ensure highways and roadways are safe for all traveling motorists. Please ensure that you are operating and towing all farm equipment in a safe manner and in compliance with inspection regulation to avoid downtime and interruption in your travel and livestock transportation.
If you have any questions about specifics or what is required, please contact a Motor Vehicle Inspector or enquire at an Official Inspection Station.