Starting at 7 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, heavy vehicles in Strathcona County, Alberta, must reduce their weight to protect local roads from damage during the spring thaw. This seasonal change is necessary because road surfaces become weaker as the frost melts out of the ground.
According to Strathcona County, trucks and other heavy equipment must lower their axle weight to 75 per cent on rural roads. This is a significant drop from the 90 per cent weight limit that is normally allowed during the summer, fall, and winter months.
The restrictions help prevent expensive damage to the 1,300 kilometres of rural roads maintained by the county. These rules are expected to stay in place until June 1, 2026, although the county may lift the ban earlier if road conditions improve and the ground dries out.
While most heavy vehicles must follow the 75 per cent limit, domestic water haulers are given a small exception and can carry 80 per cent of their weight. Under Bylaw 16-2015, drivers who ignore these limits face a $500 fine for a first offence, and repeat offenders can be fined up to $2,000.
Farmers can apply for a Road Use Agreement to carry full loads on specific routes when the spring ban is not active. These agreements are required year-round for any project or business that involves making more than five trips to the same location.
