Alaska DOT&PF rolls out seasonal weight restrictions statewide

Alaska DOT&PF imposed seasonal weight restrictions on state highways in the Northern Region starting June 8 and June 9. The department announced Central Region restrictions will take effect June 15. The limits apply to all vehicles over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight to protect road surfaces weakened during spring breakup. The restrictions may reduce allowable gross vehicle weight by as much as 50 percent compared to legal limits.

The department issued the Northern Region notices on June 4 and June 9, 2026. The Central Region notice, issued June 10, announced restrictions effective June 15 covering the Sterling Highway from Homer, Seward Highway from Seward, Glenn Highway to Mile 118, Parks Highway to Mile 163, and the Dillingham and Bethel road systems. All restrictions apply limits calculated as a percentage of legal axle loading under 17 AAC 25.013(e).

Seasonal weight restrictions on Central Region highways typically occur between March and June. Restrictions vary year to year based on weather, soil conditions, and frost depth. Alaska DOT&PF has issued annual breakup-season notices since at least 2024. January 2024, 2025, and 2026 reminders warned carriers that limits could cut allowable loads by up to 50 percent during thaw.

The Department of Public Safety and Alaska DOT&PF's Division of Measurement Standards & Commercial Vehicle Compliance jointly enforce the restrictions.