Heavy Load Restrictions

Reduced load restrictions ARE currently in place for the City of Thunder Bay.

Seasonal Restrictions

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation’s Reduced Load Period comes into effect each spring. The start date of the restrictions varies and depends on weather conditions.

In conjunction with these regulations, every spring during the thaw, municipal Load Restrictions/Half Loads are put into effect within the limits of the City of Thunder Bay to protect our roads from damage. We announce the start date in a Media Release - see the City's homepage for an index of Releases.

For more information about Reduced /Half Load restrictions and permits, call 807-625-2266.

Some roads are exempt

Some roads in Thunder Bay are exempt from these restrictions. View our Reduced Load Restriction Exemptions Listing or our Map of Streets Exempt from Reduced Load Restrictions. We appreciate your cooperation.

If you require a PDF in an accessible format, contact our Municipal Accessibility Specialist.

Heavy & Oversized Load Permits

A Heavy & Oversized Load Permit is required year-round for vehicles and/or their loads travelling on City of Thunder Bay roadways when the dimensions and/or weight exceed the limits set out in the Highway Traffic Act.

A permit is required if the dimensions or weight of your vehicle and load combined exceed the limits in the Highway Traffic Act. To apply for a permit, fill out the Heavy & Oversize Load Application and submit the completed application to engineering@thunderbay.ca.

For additional information, contact the Engineering Division at (807) 625-2266.