Spring load limits for county roads set to go into effect

Weight restrictions for trucks on Flathead County roads go into effect on Feb. 23. 

County commissioners on Tuesday approved the restrictions. The current weather pattern and lack of moisture are already causing issues with some of the roads creating the need for restrictions earlier than usual, according to the county.

Depending on whether the vehicle is single axle or tandem axle, trucks will be limited to 350 to 400 pounds per inch of tire. According to the approved resolution, total weight can range from 14,000 to 32,000 pounds, again depending on the number of axles.

On most county roads, the load limit is 350 pounds per inch of tire width as marked with a 35 mph speed limit.

The restrictions are put in place every spring when roads are at risk of being damaged by heavy trucks and equipment as the frost melts beneath the layers of the pavement, and materials under the asphalt turn wet and spongy.

Watch for road signs and updated information at http://www.flathead.mt.gov/department-directory/roads-and-bridges for updated road information.