Seasonal Load Restrictions
(updated March 2, 2010)

What is a seasonal load restriction?

During the restricted period, all commercial vehicles or trailers with a gross vehicle weight in excess of five tonnes or 11,000 lbs. per axle are prohibited on roads where restriction signage is posted, and on all roads identified as restricted on the Truck Route Maps. These restrictions also apply to all non-truck routes.

A graduated fine structure exists for heavy vehicles exceeding weight limits on restricted load roadways during the spring thaw period.

Truck Route Maps

• Urban Truck Routes – (PDF 1.3 MB)
  
• Rural Truck Routes - (PDF 2.5 MB)

Why does the City of Ottawa have seasonal load restrictions?

During the spring thaw period, some roads within the City of Ottawa cannot withstand heavy loads. Every year, the City of Ottawa conducts deflection testing at a number of test sites to watch how the pavement strength decreases as the thaw progresses. When the deflection readings are high enough, the load restrictions are imposed.

When does the seasonal load restriction begin?

As of 6 p.m., Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Load restrictions will remain in effect on the identified CITY ROADS until 12:01 a.m., Monday, May 10, 2010.

The City of Ottawa would like to thank you for respecting the seasonal load restrictions.

For further information on seasonal load restrictions, please call 3-1-1.