Truck weight load increases begin

ST. PAUL -- Allowable winter load limits on highways in the central frost zone will increase up to 10 percent at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

The central frost zone's boundaries extend from the northern portion of the state to a line following and including Highway 12 from the South Dakota state line to the Hennepin County line.

Winter truck weight load increases were previously announced on highways in the north frost zone beginning Monday and in the north central frost zone Wednesday.

Vehicles will be allowed to carry up to 10 percent more weight than the standard legal maximum loads on unrestricted highways during the winter load increase period. However, trucks must comply with current registration weight laws and not exceed registered gross weight limits.

MnDOT advises haulers to check with local agencies prior to increasing any weights on their routes. Signs erected on the roadway govern the load limit in effect.

A winter weight increase permit is required to take advantage of the 10 percent weight increase on interstate highways.