(1) The rules in this chapter apply to all common carrier railroad companies operating within the state of Washington, including any facilities or structures owned or operated by the railroad, and to the construction and reconstruction of tracks or structures adjacent thereto.

(2) A railroad company must not operate any equipment over tracks where the clearances are less than those required by these rules, unless a commission order has been entered granting an exemption or an exemption is contained in these rules.

(3) Side clearances are based on the assumption that equipment used on tracks is not greater than ten feet ten inches wide. Height clearances are based on the assumption that equipment used on tracks is not higher than fifteen feet six inches. If equipment exceeds ten feet ten inches in width, the railroad must comply with WAC 480-60-080.