The Ministère reminds users of heavy vehicles and shippers that the authorized load limits are reduced during the thaw period on all public roads. This is done every year to account for the road network’s lower bearing capacity during this period.
For the thaw period of 2024, the official and predicted dates of the load restriction period for each of the thaw zones are indicated below.
Official dates for 2024
Zone 1
From Monday, March 4th (00:01) to Friday, April 26th (23:59)
Predicted dates for 2024
Zone 2
From Monday, March 25th (00:01) to Friday, May 17th (23:59)
Zone 3
From Monday, April 1st (00:01) to Friday, May 24th (23:59)
Depending on changes in weather conditions, the start and end of the load restriction period can be moved ahead or postponed.
Carriers are encouraged to consult the MTQ website on a regular basis for updates.