Seasonal Load Restrictions

Load restrictions help protect roads from damage caused by heavy vehicles. They are most often introduced during the spring thaw, when melting snow and excess water can weaken the road base.

The City may limit vehicle weights on roads, or sections of roads, that are at risk of damage. Once road conditions improve and the road is strong enough to support normal loads, the restriction may be removed.

When load restrictions apply

Load restrictions are typically introduced in the spring when warmer temperatures and wet conditions can weaken roads (usually between October 1 and May 31). The City issues a notice each year outlining when restrictions take effect based on weather and road conditions.

Many gravel roads are subject to a 5-tonne-per-axle load restriction when restrictions are in effect. Signs are posted to notify road users when these restrictions apply.

Under By-law 2022-190, the Director of Public Works may impose weight restrictions on most secondary roads throughout Kawartha Lakes.

Monitoring road conditions

Road Operations monitors weather and road conditions to determine when load restrictions are needed. Restrictions may be introduced when warm weather and significant rainfall are expected.

The City will update the load restriction notice as conditions change.

The roads affected and the length of the restriction period may change based on weather and road conditions.

Roads exempt from load restrictions

The following roads in Kawartha Lakes are not subject to load restrictions. All other roads are subject to load restrictions, in accordance with By-Law 2022-190 (download).