Seasonal Load Limits

Each year during the spring thaw (typically early March to mid-May or the time when the snow starts melting until after the subgrade has dried), State, County and local highway authorities impose axle weight restrictions to protect their roadways.

The two primary causes for premature deterioration of asphalt streets are weather and traffic. As the frost is leaving the ground during the spring thaw, the gravel under the street has high moisture content, which affects the load carrying capacity of the asphalt pavement and cannot handle heavy loads without causing serious damage and shortening the life of the road. Therefore, in order to prolong the service life of the streets and highways, axle weight restrictions are imposed during the spring thaw when streets are most susceptible to damage due to heavy loads.

The exact dates on which seasonal limits go into effect and are removed vary depending on annual temperature variations. The City of Wyoming follows State and County recommendations on when weight restrictions are to be posted and removed. 

 

Street Regulations

  • Highways - All highways are regulated by MnDOT
  • County Roads - All county roads are regulated by Chisago County
  • Local Streets - All city streets are regulated by the the city of Wyoming
  • Private Roads - All private roads are regulated by the homeowner's associations or designated responsible party. The City of Wyoming does not maintain any information on contracts for private roads.
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Weight Restrictions

All city streets are limited to 9 tons per axle except during the spring when weight restrictions are 5 tons per axle weight limit unless otherwise posted (see Ordinance 13-06-44). Residents are encouraged to plan ahead for moving or construction projects during the spring thaw season.

 

Notifications

Notification of the date road restrictions go into effect will be posted at the MnDOT website. The City Of Wyoming is located in the metro frost zone. For local road restriction dates, contact our Public Works department at 651-462-0580.

  • Winter load increases begin in metro frost zone on Monday, January 22, 2024 at 12:01 am
  • Winter load increases end in metro frost zone on Friday, February 2, 2024 at 12:01 am
  • Spring load restrictions begin in the metro frost zone on Monday, February 26, 2024 at 12:01 am
  • Spring load restrictions end in the metro frost zone on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 12:01 am
  • Full-summer overweight permits start in the metro zone on Friday, April 5, 2024 at 12:01 am

 

Exceptions

Exceptions to the seasonal load limits in the city of Wyoming include municipal vehicles, public safety vehicles, septic trucks, delivery trucks with a residential delivery on the posted city road, garbage or recycling vehicles while on their collection routes, school buses or agricultural equipment servicing adjacent property. Permits may be issued to moving vans/trucks; all other vehicles must follow the posted weight limits.

  • Permit Application - Contact Public Works at 651-462-0580