Seasonal Weight Restrictions

KALAMAZOO, MI – Seasonal weight restrictions will be in effect on February 28, 2025 at 6:00 a.m. on county roads not designated as all-season roads. The weight restrictions, which reduce normal legal loads, apply only to multiple-axle vehicles, not pickup trucks or passenger cars. Seasonal weight restrictions lower axle-loading limits and reduce maximum travel speeds for certain vehicles. Click here for the law about seasonal weight restrictions and their effect on axle loading and speed limits.

Designed to prevent roadway damage, the restrictions usually are temporary and are lifted once the spring thaw ends. An all-season road is built with stronger, thicker asphalt layers and can withstand large trucks during the spring thaw season. The Road Commission of Kalamazoo County (RCKC) collaborates with numerous southern Michigan road agencies to implement the effective date based on data.

Seasonal weight restrictions are enforced to minimize the damage caused during Michigan's seasonal thaw. As the ground thaws in the spring, water is forced toward the surface and exerts pressure on roads, causing them to buckle and become more prone to damage. The heavier the vehicle, the greater possible harm to roads. During the seasonal weight restriction period, trucks traveling on "posted" roads must carry lighter loads and travel at slower speeds.

For immediate update resources:

• • RCKC Seasonal Weight Restriction Hot Line at 381-3170 extension 251
  • RCKC Connect – Sign up for Utility and Plat alerts to receive notifications by email, text, or telephone
  • All-Season Routes and Restricted Structures Map and other all season route information, please visit the Transportation section of our RCKC website Permit page
  • Seasonal weight restriction information statewide, please visit the County Road Association of MI website http://www.micountyroads.org/Doing-Business/Seasonal-Weight-Restriction
• Free mobile weight restrictions app can be downloaded by searching “Michigan Seasonal Weight Restrictions” on the Google Play Store or iOS App Store. Visit https://micountyroads.org/business/seasonal-weight-restrictions for app information.

The RCKC utilizes Oxcart, an online permitting software system, to assist with processing and issuing permits. The technology allows county road agencies to e-issue transportation permits and secure route notification information, all in a user-friendly format. Oxcart makes the permitting process for RCKC county roads easier, faster, and more cost effective.

Three Facts about Michigan’s “Frost Laws”:

• Most local agencies seasonal restriction period is significantly less than the 13-week period in Michigan law. 
• During the seasonal weight restriction period trucks traveling on "posted/restricted" roads must reduce speeds to 35 M.P.H. and carry lighter loads.  Those using “all season” roads can haul normal legal loads.     
• Most northern states and all Canadian Provinces also utilize seasonal weight restrictions on their roads.

The RCKC has served as the local road professionals of Kalamazoo County since 1909. RCKC remains committed to our goal of using our expertise, energy, and funds to provide the safest and most convenient road system possible, and to contribute to economic development and high quality of life throughout the county.

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