The Michigan Department of Transportation and local authorities are implementing spring weight restrictions, a yearly measure to safeguard the state’s roads.

Starting at 6 a.m. on Friday, February 2, weight limitations will be applied and enforced on all state trunkline highways throughout Michigan.

These restrictions will be in effect for all state trunklines, identifiable by designations such as M, I, or US routes. When the roads, which have been frozen during the winter, begin to thaw, the melting snow and ice saturate the softened ground beneath the pavement. The softened roadbed, combined with trapped moisture, makes it more vulnerable to damage during the spring thaw. This exacerbates existing pothole issues resulting from the frequent freeze-thaw cycles experienced over the winter.

Within the restricted zones, the following regulations will be enforced:

  1. On routes labeled as “all-season” (highlighted in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be no decrease in legal axle weights.
  2. All extended permits will remain valid for oversized loads within the weight-restricted area on the designated routes. However, single-trip permits will not be issued for any overweight loads or loads exceeding 14 feet in width, 11 axles, and 150 feet in overall length on the restricted routes.
  3. For routes identified as “seasonal” (marked in solid or dashed red on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be a posted weight reduction of 25 percent for rigid (concrete) pavements and 35 percent for flexible (asphalt) pavements. Additionally, certain vehicles will have a maximum speed limit of 35 mph on these routes.

Motorists are required to adhere to the speed limits specified for roads with weight restrictions, as mandated by state law. To find information on speed restrictions for trucks and regulations pertaining to propane fuel delivery and public utility vehicles, visit the relevant online resources.

The initiation of weight restrictions each spring is determined by MDOT through the assessment of frost depths along state highways, observation of road conditions, and monitoring of weather forecasts. These restrictions persist until the frost line deepens sufficiently to allow moisture to dissipate, and the roadbeds regain their stability.

Local entities, such as county road commissions and city public works departments, independently implement their seasonal weight restrictions. While these often align with state highway restrictions, there may be variations. Signs are typically posted to indicate which routes are currently subject to weight restrictions.

For the latest information and updates on weight restrictions, you can call 800-787-8960 or access the details on MDOT’s website at www.Michigan.gov/Truckers under the “Restrictions” section. The MDOT Truck Operators Map, available online, designates all-season routes in green and gold. Additionally, you can opt to receive  e-mail alerts for timely notifications.