Seasonal Weight Restrictions Rescinded March 31st at 6:00 a.m.

KALAMAZOO, MI – The Road Commission of Kalamazoo County (RCKC) will rescind seasonal weight restrictions on Monday, March 31, 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.

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.

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 decision to rescind seasonal weight restrictions isn’t made lightly, it’s based on data and infrastructure observation. If weight restrictions are removed too soon it can cause permanent damage to the roadway. The RCKC thanks the motoring public with their cooperation to preserve our infrastructure in Kalamazoo County.

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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