Service

Seasonal Weight Restrictions

Each spring, the thawing of ice within the road base—known locally as breakup—significantly weakens road structures. During this time, heavy vehicles can cause severe and costly damage, even in a single trip. Seasonal Weight Restrictions help protect public infrastructure, keep roads safe, and reduce long‑term maintenance costs.

Under MSB 11.08, the Borough Manager may reduce allowed axle weights or temporarily close roads to protect them during thawing periods. Seasonal restrictions typically reduce the legal axle weight to a percentage of the normal allowable load.

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Current Restrictions and Maps

The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) publishes statewide seasonal load restrictions, which the Borough uses as a reference:

Statewide Load Restriction Map:
https://egis-akdot.hub.arcgis.com/maps/a2438fa87e6c46b0a00719cdd26351f7/explore

This interactive map provides:

• Active state restrictions

• Color‑coded restriction zones

• Region‑wide travel updates

Mat-Su Borough interactive map is in development!

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Weight Restriction Levels

Seasonal restrictions are typically expressed as a percentage of normal legal axle loads. Common reductions include:

• 75% axle load limit

• 50% axle load limit

• Special reductions based on road condition and weather

Operators should check restriction levels daily, as conditions can change quickly.

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Non-Divisible Load Exemptions

The Borough may grant limited exemptions for transporting non-divisible equipment, as defined in MSB 11.08.
A non-divisible load is equipment that cannot be dismantled without damaging its intended use or that requires more than eight work hours to dismantle using proper tools.

Key points:

• Available one round-trip per day per vehicle

• Applicant must submit a Borough waiver application in advance of the trip

• A $100 processing fee is required

• Applicant must provide vehicle details, start and stop points, date of travel, and justification for non-divisible status

Apply for a Non-Divisible Load Waiver Permit

Operators needing to transport non-divisible equipment may apply for a one‑trip exemption.

IN DEVELOPMENT

Applications should be submitted early to avoid delays.

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Fines and Penalties

Per MSB 11.08 and MSB 1.45.100(C), the following fine applies:

• $1,000 fine for operating a vehicle over the weight restriction without a valid exemption or waiver.

Operating overweight during breakup causes significant roadway damage and creates safety hazards; the penalty reflects this risk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When are seasonal weight restrictions active?
Restrictions begin when thaw weakening makes roads vulnerable. Timing varies each year.

How long do restrictions last?
Usually several weeks, depending on weather and soil conditions.

Can I haul equipment early in the morning while roads are still frozen?
No. Seasonal weight restrictions apply at the posted percentage at all times. The reduced axle load limit is in effect 24 hours a day until the Borough updates or removes the restriction. It is not based on temperature or time of day.

What happens if I violate a restriction?
A mandatory $1,000 fine applies for traveling overweight without a valid exemption.

Can I haul gravel during seasonal weight restrictions? Yes, you can haul gravel as long as the load meets the posted weight reduction percentage. Gravel is considered a divisible material, which means it can be reduced or split into smaller loads. Because of this, gravel hauls do not qualify for a non divisible load waiver. Operators must follow the reduced axle load limits at all times until the Borough updates or lifts the restriction.