(COLDWATER) - Seasonal road weight restrictions will go into effect across Branch County beginning early next week, according to the Branch County Road Commission.
Officials say the annual "frost laws" will take effect at 6 a.m. Monday, February 16, as freeze-thaw conditions create unstable subsoil beneath road surfaces. During this period, roads are more vulnerable to damage from heavy vehicles.
Under the restrictions, normal legal axle loads will be reduced by 35 percent on paved roads and 25 percent on concrete roads for all non-exempt vehicles.
The Road Commission says the maximum allowable axle load will be:
- 11,700 pounds for vehicles with axle spacing of nine feet or more
- 8,450 pounds for vehicles with axle spacing between 3 feet, 6 inches and nine feet
Operators hauling eligible exempt loads are required to obtain one permit per power unit.
Road officials say enforcement will be strict, and citations will be issued to violators to protect the county's road infrastructure during the critical freeze-thaw season.
The seasonal weight restrictions will remain in effect until conditions improve later in the spring.