I've got a 35' cat on order and noticed some online chat about the need for Permits when towing. The beam will be 10 feet and I was wondering if some of you could educate me as to how you transport boats of a similar dimension.
The boat will be used in Utah however I'm sure once or twice a year I'll make the trek to Mead or Havasu.
Do I need permits? Are they easy to get? Your advice is most appreciated.

If you are going to haul with the same tow vehicle, all the time, then check with each state DOT, about a blanket permit. It will be cheaper in the long run, then buying each time you move.

I believe that if you are at 10 feet you will be ok. Anything over that definately needs permits. Check with the DOT just to make sure though. You should be able to simply call the agency for your state to get an answer.

Anything over 8'6" is oversize, I know there are guys pullings cats all the time without permits. Its easy to get permits, there are permit services out there that can do it for you as well. One call and you can get them all faxed to you, all you need to provide is the states that you are traveling through.

Correct, anything over 8'6" requires a permit. Very easy to get, try to buy direct from the state. Permit services are ok but they usually add around 45 dollars or so to each permit. As wideawake said, try to purchase blanket permits. Good for a year and usually around 100.00. Taking a chance with no permit is ok, I've done it before but if you get caught expect to pay a nice fine and the boat won't move until you have the proper permits.

Below is a link to towing laws by state.

http://www.boatus.com/trailerclub/laws.asp

Hey I work for a company in SLC. Utah offers an annual permit for 10' wide for I believe $50. They will need your vehicle registration and a copy of your current ins. No big deal just call the Perry UT port of entry and they will issue it and fax it to you. Good for one year. 435-734-9414. Or you can call the St. George port at 435-673-3786. Arizona Does offer an annual permit but I am not sure how much those are since the ones we get are for 240,000 lbs. You wont need overweight just width. Nevada wont make you buy anything unless you exceed 10'. If you need any help let me know.
DO NOT USE A PERMIT SERVICE. They will charge you big $$ for something that will take you a few minutes to do yourself.

Great information. Many thanks to all who responded. Since the boat will be stored at Lake Powell and I just looked at a map, it looks as though my route to Havasu will be through Arizona. Anyone familiar with their requirements? I see things on other threads about flags, reflective tape, special lights and wide or overside load signs.

You can call the Arizona central permit office at (623) 932-2247 They will be the ones who issue the permits. All you should have to have is an oversize sign. They dont require lights and flags like most states do.