Considerations

• The definition of flat bed trucks may range from large commercial trucks to smaller pick-ups with flat bed conversions. The California Vehicle Code states very little about the required configuration of flat bed trucks. Thus, common sense should be used in the purchase and/or modification of a flat bed.
  
  

Transport of People

• California Vehicle Code Section 23116 states that no person shall be transported on the back of a flat bed truck. Exceptions to the law include situations during which the vehicle is being used only within the boundaries of an agricultural operation, proper restraints are utilized or the vehicle is part of an official parade monitored by law enforcement.
  
  

Load Width Regulations

• Although not specific to flat bed trucks, the California Vehicle Code outlines that the outside width of a vehicle and its load shall not be more than 102 inches. Considering that many flat beds may be used in agricultural operations, one exemption states that any vehicle transporting an item defined as "loosely piled agricultural products," such as hay, may extend its maximum width to no more than 120 inches.