Overview

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 Excelsior go into effect on the date determined by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) for the Metro Area Frost Zone.  MnDOT Seasonal Load Limits.

Weight Restrictions Map

Seasonal Road Weight Restrictions Map

Notifications

Notification of the date road restrictions go into effect will be posted at the MnDOT website, or you may call (651) 366-5400 or toll free at (800) 723-6543.

Spring Road Weight Restrictions begin March 16, 2022 at 12:01 AM

Spring Road Weight Restrictions end April 12, 2022 at 12:01 AM - Ending Spring Road Weight Restrictions

Other Road Restrictions

Contact Hennepin County Public Works at (612) 348-9330 for restrictions on county-maintained roadways and contact the Minnesota Department of Transportation at (651) 582-1550 for restrictions on state highways.