Law increases weight limits for log haulers, transport of road salt/sand
Effective Friday (Feb. 6) at 12:01 a.m., the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will declare highways are officially frozen statewide and the frozen road law is in effect across Wisconsin. The frozen road law allows heavier loads for trucks carrying logs cut crosswise (not including woodchips) and salt and sand for winter maintenance while cold weather allows. The seasonal weight restriction program is one way to protect Wisconsin’s investments in roads.
WisDOT maintains an interactive map for seasonal weight restrictions, which shows the frozen road boundaries, Class II roads and posted roads.
WisDOT and county highway personnel monitor temperature forecasts, along with frost tubes – liquid-filled devices under pavement – to help determine when roads are adequately frozen to accommodate heavier loads.
More information on overweight vehicle permits can be found on the WisDOT oversize/overweight permits webpage. Haulers with specific questions can contact WisDOT’s Oversize/Overweight Permits Unit at (608) 266-7320. Call (608) 266-8417 to listen to a recorded message with general information on road restrictions.
