Frozen road law in effect for northern half of state

Wisconsin’s frozen road law is in effect for the northern half of the state. The Wis-DOT designates the regions as Zone 1 and Zone 2, with the frozen road determination made for other areas of the state, when conditions warrant.

The frozen road law allows vehicles hauling abrasives or salt for highway winter maintenance, and certain forest products, to carry more weight. The seasonal weight restriction program is one way to protect Wisconsin’s investments in roads.

An interactive map is maintained for seasonal weight restrictions, which shows the frozen roads 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.

The declaration is issued once the ground under highway pavement is frozen to a depth of at least 18-inches, allowing the maximum gross weight for trucks hauling logs or salt, and sand for maintaining roads in winter, to go up to 98,000 pounds on vehicles with a minimum of five axles (from the normal 80,000 pounds).

Special permits for hauling the increased weights are not required in Zone 1 and Zone 2; however, vehicles must be legally licensed at 80,000 pounds to handle the increased weights. The higher weight limits do not apply to county or local roads, unless authorized by the local agency having maintenance authority.

Also, higher weights may not be transported on any highways or bridges specifically posted for lower weight limits.

More information on overweight permits can be found at wisconsindot.gov. Haulers with specific questions can call 608-2667320. A recorded message with general information on road restrictions is available by calling 608-266-8417.