Winter Tire Rules in BC Take Effect Next Week

Winter Tire Rules in BC Take Effect Next Week

Winter tire regulations come into effect next week in BC, despite it only being two days into fall.

Traveling most of BC’s highways with no exceptions in the Lower Mainland and southern part of Vancouver Island will require winter tires as of Tuesday, Oct. 1.

The regulations will be in effect until the end of April for most highways.

The tire and chain requirements may be lifted on a few select highways that are not in mountain passes or areas with high snowfall by the 31st of March.

Throughout the province, these routes are clearly marked with appropriate signage.

Highway 99, Trans-Canada Highway 1 and several highways through southern Interior, including Highway 97, are currently governed by winter tire regulations until the end of March.

As of April 30, Highway 5 (Coquihalla and Yellowhead) and Highway 3 require snow tires.

A winter tire should have a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimeters and have either the letters M+S or the mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall.

A fine of more than $120 can be imposed for not having the appropriate winter tires.

In this 16th Shift into Winter campaign, you are reminded to prepare for stormy weather by:

  • Brakes, lights, and belts should be inspected. 
  • You should install winter wiper blades and use winter-rated washer fluid. 
  • The tires should be inflated and anti-freeze should be added. 
  • A posted speed limit is set according to ideal conditions. If the conditions are not ideal, you should slow down.
  • Your vehicle should be at least four seconds away from the vehicle in front.
  • If you want to know what to expect on your route, check DriveBC. 

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