North Dakota drivers warned seasonal load restrictions may begin early due to upcoming weather conditions
Bismarck, North Dakota – Seasonal load limits could soon return to highways across North Dakota as state officials prepare for early spring conditions driven by a mild winter and warmer weather in the forecast. Transportation leaders are warning that these changes may happen as soon as next week, depending on how fast temperatures continue to rise and how road conditions respond.
The purpose of seasonal load restrictions is to protect highways during one of their most fragile periods of the year. When frozen ground begins to thaw, pavement and roadbeds lose strength, making them far more vulnerable to damage from heavy trucks and oversized loads. Even brief exposure to excess weight during this time can lead to cracking, ruts, and long-term structural harm that is costly to repair.
How the state decides when limits begin
The North Dakota Department of Transportation relies on advanced tools to decide when spring load restrictions should be placed. Officials use computer modeling that is backed up by subsurface temperature probes embedded beneath roadways. These probes track how deeply frost is leaving the ground, giving engineers a clearer picture of when highways are no longer strong enough to safely handle heavy traffic.
This data-driven approach allows transportation officials to make more precise decisions rather than relying on guesswork or calendar dates. As a result, restrictions may be applied only when truly needed and lifted sooner once roadbeds have stabilized. According to the agency, this helps reduce unnecessary delays for drivers while still protecting vital infrastructure.
Historically, load restrictions are introduced first in the southwest part of the state, where thawing often begins earlier. From there, the limits gradually expand to other regions as conditions change. Restrictions remain in place until roads regain enough strength to safely support normal traffic levels.
State officials are urging motorists and trucking companies with overweight loads to move them before restrictions begin, if possible. Once limits are active, permits and weight allowances may be reduced.
For the most current information, drivers can call 511 or check the ND Roads map at travel.dot.nd.gov. Email and text updates are also available through GovDelivery, with additional details posted at www.dot.nd.gov/load-restrictions.
