MnDOT Seasonal Load Limit Notification 4-26/11 ENDING Spring Road Weight Restrictions

MnDOT Seasonal Load Limit Notification 3/11/11 STARTING Spring Road Weight Restrictions

Each year during the spring thaw (typically early-March to mid-May), State, County and Local highway authorities impose axle weight restrictions to protect their roadways.

The two primary causes for premature deterioration of asphalt streets are weather and traffic. As the frost is leaving the ground during the spring thaw, the gravel under the street has high moisture content which affects the load carrying capacity of the asphalt pavement. Therefore, in order to prolong the service life of the streets and highways, axle weight restrictions are imposed during the spring thaw when streets are most susceptible to damage due to heavy loads.

The exact dates on which seasonal limits go into effect and are removed vary depending on annual temperature variations. Seasonal load limits in Chanhassen go into effect on the date determined by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).

Notification of the date road restrictions go into effect will be posted at the MnDOT web site or you may call (651) 747-2253 or toll free at 1-800-723-6543.

Road restrictions are typically lifted eight (8) weeks from the date they go into effect but the actual date is determined by MnDOT.

Exceptions to the seasonal load limits in Chanhassen are emergency vehicles and school buses. Permits will only be issued to moving vans. All other vehicles, including but not limited to garbage trucks and general construction vehicles and equipment, must follow the posted weight limits.

Click HERE to view and print permit application.
Click HERE to view the Seasonal Road Weight Restriction Map.