The Monroe County Highway Department advises residents and other highway users to be prepared for the annual limitation of the weight of vehicles traveling on county highways.
Restrictions are placed each spring when the frozen ground begins to thaw, leaving the roadbed weakened and the highway vulnerable to severe damage from heavy loads. Restrictions are placed to protect the structural integrity of the highway and to preserve the public investment in the highway system.
Over the past 15 years, the earliest that restrictions have been placed was Feb. 20 (2017); and the latest was March 19 (2007). Over the same period, removal of the restrictions ranged from March 31 (2017) to April 29 (2013). In 2021, restrictions were placed March 5 and removed April 12.
Another news release will be issued in advance of the placement of restrictions; however, restrictions may be placed at any time conditions warrant. The restrictions will take effect as soon as signs are posted on the highway.
When restrictions are in place, all vehicles are limited to 6 tons per any one axle and 10 tons per any two axles spaced fewer than 8 feet apart. The Monroe County Highway Department strongly encourages everyone to complete any heavy hauling while the ground is still frozen.
The Monroe County Highway Committee has adopted a policy on vehicle weight restrictions and permits that establishes certain limitations and provides for possible exception to or exemption from the restrictions. Copy of the policy may be found on the Monroe County Highway Department web page at www.co.monroe.wi.us.
Requests for exception will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are subject to a $100 single-trip permit fee. Exceptions are not typically granted for loads that can be reasonably divided, lightened or delayed.No vehicle, with or without a permit, may exceed the limit posted on a bridge.
For further information, contact the highway department at 269-8740 or via email at highways@co.monroe.wi.us.
