Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026, the City of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, will put reduced weight limits on local streets to prevent road damage during the spring thaw. These seasonal rules limit heavy trucks to five tonnes per axle to protect the strength of the roads.
The limits are a standard yearly practice used when the ground under the pavement softens as snow and ice melt. By limiting how much heavy vehicles can carry, the city aims to reduce the risk of deep ruts or the pavement breaking during this sensitive time.
While truck owners and operators must follow these weight rules, the changes do not affect regular cars or standard passenger vehicles. Local officials will monitor the conditions and keep these rules in place until the ground has dried and the roads are stable again.
According to the city, these measures are taken under the Highway Traffic Act to protect highways when damage is most likely to happen. The weight limits will remain in effect until further notice.
