The annual half-load restriction period to limit vehicle weights to 5,000 kgs (5 tonnes) per axle has been implemented on designated Township roads effective March 1 to May 31. Some year-round restrictions apply.
For more information, please refer to the frequently asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Seasonal half-load restrictions are placed on select roadways within the Township during the spring thaw (March 1 to May 31). Some roadways have full year-round restrictions imposed. When a half-load restriction is in place, it means that vehicles over 5,000 kgs (5 tonnes) per axle are not permitted to use the roadway.
Some examples of vehicles that are not permitted to use the roadway during the half-load restriction period are larger vehicles such as dump trucks, delivery trucks, concrete trucks, and heavy equipment floats that haul excavators, bulldozers and cranes.
Spring (Seasonal) Load Restrictions
During the spring thaw, changing ground conditions can temporarily reduce the strength of roadways. Increased moisture can make road surfaces more vulnerable to damage from heavy vehicles, which may result in long‑term deterioration if not managed.
Half-load restrictions are used to help protect roads during this sensitive period, allowing them time to shed the frost and maintain their intended lifespan. These seasonal measures help reduce avoidable damage and support responsible use of public infrastructure.
In Ontario, seasonal load restrictions are authorized under Section 122 of the Highway Traffic Act (HTA)
Year-round Load Restrictions
Some roads or structures have long-term structural limitations. In these cases, year-round load restrictions are imposed and established by municipal by-laws. These restrictions apply regardless of season or weather conditions, and reflect the inherent load-carrying capacity of the roadway.
Schedule F – Reduced Loads of Township By-Law 2017-103 identifies the load restriction period for each roadway.
For a visual, please refer to the interactive Half-Load Roads Map below.
The Director of Public Works has the delegated authority to amend the restrictions based on the winter season and the road conditions.
The following are exempt from half-load restrictions:
- vehicles operated by or on behalf of the Township or other authority having jurisdiction and control of a highway, where the vehicles are engaged in highway maintenance, including the carriage and application of abrasives or chemicals to the highway, the stockpiling of abrasives or chemicals for use on a highway, or the removal of snow from a highway;
- vehicles used exclusively for the transportation of milk;
- fire apparatus;
- vehicles operated by or on behalf of the Township transporting waste;
- public utility emergency vehicles; or
- vehicles used to transport passengers for compensation, other than those operated solely within the limits of the Township.
In certain circumstances, a temporary half-load exemption can be granted by the Director of Public Works. To request an exemption, please fill out the Half Load Exemption Request Application Form.
To determine road ownership, please visit York Region's Regional Roads webpage.
Some York Regional Roads have weight restrictions imposed. For more information, please visit York Region’s Road Weight Restrictions page and look under King.
