Calhoun County 2026 Seasonal Weight Restrictions

February 11, 2026

Press Release

In accordance with Public Act 300 of 1949, the Calhoun County Road Department (CCRD) is enacting Seasonal Weight Restrictions beginning at 6 a.m., Tuesday,

February 17, 2026. 

When roads have been frozen all winter, they begin to thaw from the surface downward, melting snow and ice, saturating the softened ground. During the spring thaw, trapped moisture beneath the pavement softens the roadbed, making the road surface more vulnerable to damage. Calhoun County Road Department determines when weight restrictions begin each spring by measuring frost depths in various locations in the County, observing road conditions, and monitoring weather forecasts. Weight restrictions remain in effect until the frost line is deep enough to allow moisture to escape and the roadbeds regain stability.

The weight restrictions, which reduce normal legal loads, apply only to multiple-axle vehicles, not pickup trucks or passenger cars. Seasonal weight restrictions lower axle-loading limits and reduce maximum travel speeds for certain vehicles. The Michigan Vehicle Code (Excerpt) Act 300 of 1949 https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-257-722 provides details about seasonal weight restrictions and their effect on axle loading and speed limits.

For seasonal permits and a list of seasonal roads, visit 

calhouncountymi.gov/departments/road_department/seasonal_weight_restrictions.php.

For information from the County Road Association, visit

https://micountyroads.org/business/seasonal-weight-restrictions/.

For more information, contact CCRD Permit Agent Erin Cummings at 269-781-0024 or ecummings@calhouncountymi.gov