Otter Tail County Spring Weight Restrictions Begin March 6 on County Highways

Weight restrictions rolled onto Otter Tail County highways at 12:01 a.m. on March 6, 2026, as the county's annual spring thaw protections took hold across the county road network. The restrictions carry no fixed expiration date; they remain in force until the county removes the posted signs.

The Otter Tail County Highway Department issued a news release advising both residents and commercial drivers of the change. "Please be advised that Spring Weight Restrictions on Otter Tail County Highways will go into effect at 12:01 am, March 6, 2026," the release states. "Restrictions are in effect until the signs are removed."

The county has published a 2026 Road Restriction Map showing which county highways fall under the limits. Drivers seeking the map or additional details can reach the Highway Department directly at 218-998-8470. The department is housed under Otter Tail County's highway division, based at 500 W Fir Ave in Fergus Falls. The county's general line is 218-998-8000.

The restrictions apply specifically to Otter Tail County Highways. The county's release does not address state trunk highways or township roads, which fall under separate jurisdiction.

Spring weight restrictions are a recurring feature of road management across Minnesota, where freeze-thaw cycles weaken road bases and make pavement significantly more vulnerable to damage from heavy loads. For commercial haulers operating on county routes between Fergus Falls, Perham, Battle Lake, and other communities served by county highways, the start of restrictions typically requires adjusting load weights or routing until conditions stabilize and signs come down.