Potholes, sinkholes, and asphalt damage can affect road safety and your daily commute. Learn how they form and what to do if you spot damage.
Report a pothole
Did you find a pothole in the city? Please complete the online reporting form.
How potholes form
Potholes are a common issue on roads, and the main culprit behind them is water—whether it's rain, melting snow, or ice.
Potholes form when water gets into cracks in the road and weakens the layers underneath. As vehicles drive over these weak spots, the pavement breaks apart, creating holes. Roads with heavy traffic, especially trucks, are more likely to develop potholes.
Why are potholes worse in the spring?
Winter’s freeze-thaw cycle is the major cause:
- Water seeps in: Cold weather creates cracks in the asphalt, letting water in.
- Freezing expands: The water freezes, expands, and pushes the pavement up.
- Melting collapses: When the ice melts, it leaves gaps beneath the pavement. Without support, the pavement breaks under vehicle weight.
More freeze-thaw cycles mean more potholes in the spring.
![Pothole Image]()
Reduced load limits
Weight requirements
Weight restrictions are in place to safeguard the integrity of roads, especially during the spring-thaw period, when they are more likely to be damaged.
- Visit the Niagara Region’s website for information about reduced load restrictions on roads where you can only carry five tonnes per axle.
- Vehicles breaking the rules will face penalties under the Highway Traffic Act.
Oversized or overweight load permits
If you are moving a vehicle, load, object, or structure that is bigger or heavier than the legal limits of the Highway Traffic Act in the City of Niagara Falls, you must apply for a permit. This permit helps ensure your load travels safely and doesn’t cause traffic problems or damage to roads.
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