2025 Spring Load Restrictions

Spring Load Restrictions are in effect as of Monday, March 3 at 12:01 a.m. Posted axle weight limit signs govern the vehicle weights on posted roads. All restriction limits are gross axle weights. No overweight permits will be issued to vehicles that exceed the posted limits.

2025 Road Restriction Map (PDF) 

Road Restrictions Preserve the Life of Roads

• Restrictions are put in place annually to preserve the life of roads.
• As the frost is leaving the ground during the spring thaw every year, the gravel under the roadbed has high moisture content, which weakens the load carrying capacity of the bituminous pavement. Therefore, in order to protect and prolong the service life of the roadways, axle weight restrictions are imposed during the spring thaw every year, when the roadbeds are most susceptible to damage (due to the weakened subgrade). Typically, the restrictions are in place for about 8 weeks.
• Minnesota Statute 169.87 establishes weight restrictions. The weight on any single axle shall not exceed 5 tons of any unpaved street or highway; or 10 tons on a paved street or highway unless posted otherwise between the dates set by the Commissioner of Transportation.
• Seasonal load limit zones and restricted routes can be found on the MnDOT load limits map.
• Start and end dates and other load limit information are shown at mndot.gov/loadlimits.
• Ending dates for spring load restrictions are variable and based on how weather is affecting roadway strength.