Every year, the Michigan Department of Transportation modifies the spring weight restriction areas to safeguard the state’s roads. Starting from 6 a.m. on Monday, March 6, weight limits will be enforced on all state trunkline highways in specific regions of Michigan.
- Highways north of a line on M-46 in Muskegon County from the US-31 Business Route in the city of Muskegon, then east to US-131, then north on US-131 to M-46, then east to the intersection of M-25 in Port Sanilac Sanilac County
- Highways south of a line on M-55 from the US-31 intersection in Manistee County east to M-66 in Missaukee County, then north on M-66 to M-55 in Missaukee County, then east on M-55 to the intersection of US-23 in Tawas in Iosco County.
All state trunk lines between these two lines will have weight restrictions imposed and enforced. State routes typically carry M, I, or US designations.
In the restricted areas, the following will apply:
- On routes designated as “all-season” (designated in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be no reduction in legal axle weights.
- On routes designated as “seasonal” (designated 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.
- All extended permits will be valid for oversize loads in the weight-restricted area on the restricted routes. 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.
As winter ends and roads start thawing, the melting snow and ice saturate the ground below, making it soft. This softness of the roadbed due to the trapped moisture underneath the pavement increases the likelihood of damage during the spring thaw. This is further compounded by the numerous freeze-thaw cycles that occurred during the winter, leading to more pothole issues.
To obtain the latest weight restriction updates and information, interested individuals can call 800-787-8960. Alternatively, this information can also be found on the Michigan Department of Transportation’s website under “Restrictions and Conditions” at www.Michigan.gov/Truckers. The MDOT Truck Operators Map is available online, where all-season routes are highlighted in green and gold. Additionally, people can sign up for email alerts to stay informed.