SDDOT Issues Reminder on 2026 Spring Load Restrictions

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) has issued a reminder to motorists and commercial carriers regarding upcoming spring load restrictions aimed at protecting the state’s highway infrastructure.

Under state law (SDCL 32-22-24), highway authorities have the power to restrict vehicle loads between Feb. 15 and April 30. These measures are designed to prevent significant roadway damage as pavement becomes vulnerable during the seasonal thaw.

“To prevent roadway damage and preserve our critical infrastructure, it can become necessary to temporarily restrict loads this time of the year,” said Craig Smith, SDDOT Director of Operations.

Monitoring and Implementation: To ensure restrictions are in place only when necessary, the SDDOT monitors daily temperature fluctuations across South Dakota to calculate freeze-thaw indices. Decisions to implement or lift restrictions are based on this data, combined with direct observation of highway conditions by field personnel.

Accessing Restriction Maps Drivers and fleet managers can monitor active restrictions through the following resources:

·        South Dakota Truck Info: Current maps and county road lists are available at sdtruckinfo.sd.gov.

·        SD511: Real-time updates can be found at sd511.org by selecting “Traffic Notices” and then “CVO Restrictions.”

County Road Authority

 The SDDOT clarified that load limits on county roads are determined and enforced by local jurisdictions, not the state. For questions regarding specific county limits, motorists are advised to use the contact information for county superintendents provided on the Truck Info website.

For further technical information, the public may contact Dan Varilek, Winter Maintenance Specialist, at 605-773-3571.