The Ministry reminds that weight limits for heavy vehicles are reduced across the entire road network during the thaw. Each year, these restrictions are implemented to protect the roads, which are more vulnerable during this period.
For the thaw period of 2026, the predicted dates of the load restriction period for each of the thaw zones are indicated below.
Official dates for 2026
Zone 1
From Monday, March 16th (00:01) to Friday, May 15th (23:59)
Predicted dates for 2026
Zone 2
From Monday, March 30th (00:01) to Friday, May 29th (23:59)
Zone 3
From Monday, March 30th (00:01) to Friday, June 29th (23:59)
Depending on changes in weather conditions, the start and end of the load restriction period can be moved ahead or postponed.
Ref. : Transports Québec, Thaw period-targets dates, https://www.transports.gouv.qc.ca/en/camionnage/degel-periode-restrictions-charges/Pages/periode-degel.aspx