Frozen road law takes effect Thursday in northern Wisconsin
Law affects log haulers, transport of road salt/sand in Zone 1
Wisconsin’s frozen road law takes effect Thursday, December 30 at 12:01 a.m. for the region designated by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) as Zone 1 which includes US 8 along with numbered state and federal highways north of US 8. The frozen road determination for other areas of the state will be made when conditions warrant.
The frozen road law allows vehicles hauling abrasives or salt for highway winter maintenance and certain forest products to carry more weight. The seasonal weight restriction program is one way to protect Wisconsin’s investments in roads.An interactive map showing the Seasonal weight restrictions and load limit boundaries is available on the WisDOT Maps and GIS and weight restriction pages. Layers on this GIS map show the frozen roads boundaries, Class II roads and posted roads for easy reference.
Behind the declaration
WisDOT and county highway personnel monitor temperature forecasts, along with frost tubes – liquid-filled devices under pavement – to help determine when roads are adequately frozen to accommodate heavier loads.
The declaration is issued once the ground under highway pavement is frozen to a depth of at least 18-inches, allowing the maximum gross weight for trucks hauling logs or salt and sand for maintaining roads in winter to go up to 98,000 pounds on vehicles with a minimum of five axles (from the normal 80,000 pounds). Special permits for hauling the increased weights are not required in Zone 1, however, vehicles must be legally licensed at 80,000 pounds to handle the increased weights. The higher weight limits do not apply to county or local roads unless authorized by the local agency having maintenance authority. Also, higher weights may not be transported on any highways or bridges specifically posted for lower weight limits.
The “Motor carrier/trucker” section of the WisDOT website contains comprehensive information impacting commercial motor vehicle operators including weight restriction programs and frozen road declaration. Customers can also check a recorded message on the Frozen Road Hotline at (608) 266-8417. Haulers with specific questions can contact WisDOT’s Oversize/Overweight Permits Unit at (608) 266-7320.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
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WIS 241 Closed Near Root River in Milwaukee County Due to Flooding
Apr 17th, 2026 by Wisconsin Department of TransportationWIS 241 (27th Street) in the city of Frankin is currently closed due high water levels at the Root River. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) encourages drivers to be aware of changing travel conditions. “Know before you go” with 511 Wisconsin, 511wi.gov or via the free app, to view highway closures impacted by flooding and weather alerts across the state. Current highway closure: Milwaukee County WIS 241 (27th Street) near the Root River is closed in both directions, Milwaukee County The timeline for reopening these roads remains unknown, as river levels are still cresting, and additional rain is anticipated. WisDOT officials are closely monitoring the roads and river levels and will reopen them as soon as it is safe to do so. While it’s difficult to predict if or where flooding may occur, WisDOT offers these tips: Flooding conditions may change rapidly so drive with caution at all times. Never drive through standing water or around barriers. As the safety slogan goes, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” It only takes a foot of rushing water to sweep away or float most cars and just two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. Just six inches of floodwater will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. Stay alert and slow down. Follow designated detour routes if state, county and local roads experience flooding. If you must travel, check 511 Wisconsin for the latest information on any road closures or impacts.
