Winter Tires in British Columbia
Quick answer: Only in some conditions. In British Columbia winter tires are required on signed highways, 1 Oct to 30 Apr. From 1 October to 30 April, drivers must obey winter tire and chain signs on designated highways across the province. On select highways outside mountain passes and high-snowfall areas the requirement ends on 31 March. Police can turn you around and fine you. Today: Season on: applies on signed highways (1 Oct to 30 Apr).
The rule
From 1 October to 30 April, drivers must obey winter tire and chain signs on designated highways across the province. On select highways outside mountain passes and high-snowfall areas the requirement ends on 31 March. Police can turn you around and fine you.
What tires count
M+S or the three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol, with at least 3.5 mm of tread. At least two matching winter tires on the primary drive axle (four recommended).
Snow chains
Chains on summer tires are not a legal substitute for winter tires on signed highways. Commercial vehicles must carry chains where signed.
Studded tires
Allowed on BC highways 1 October to 30 April; studs must not protrude more than 2 mm.
Fine
CAD 121 for a passenger vehicle without the required winter tires. Commercial vehicles: CAD 196 for not carrying chains, CAD 598 for bypassing an active chain-up area.
Lorries, buses and heavy vehicles
Commercial vehicles must carry chains on signed routes: CAD 196 if not carried, CAD 598 for bypassing a chain-up area.
Tips for visiting drivers
Designated routes are marked with roadside signs and shown on the province's regional maps. The signs apply to every driver, including rental and US cars, and municipal or ski-hill roads can have their own rules.
Notes: The government page shows designated routes on regional maps rather than a list; check the map for your route.
Official source and last check
Government of British Columbia: winter tire and chain enforcement · Official text, cited · last checked
Also checked: BC: winter tire and chain-up routes and dates (regional maps) · BC: winter tires for passenger vehicles
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change and local signs always apply; check the official source before you travel. "Right now" is worked out from today's date and the dates above; where the rule depends on snow, ice or signs, it applies only when those are present.
Check the road and the weather
Winter tires in British Columbia: FAQ
Are winter tires compulsory in British Columbia?
When do you need winter tires in British Columbia?
What winter tires are accepted in British Columbia?
Do you need snow chains in British Columbia?
What is the fine in British Columbia?
Are studded tires allowed in British Columbia?
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