Winter tires to be mandatory on most B.C. highways starting Oct. 1

Closeup of car tires in winter on the road covered with snow

Winter tire requirements, a key indicator that the cold season is fast approaching, will be in place as of Oct. 1.

The rules come into effect on the same date annually and typically last until April 30, or March 31 for select highways not located through mountain passes or in high snowfall areas.

The province requires passenger vehicles to be refitted with snow tires if they are travelling any highway in the North and Interior, sections of some highways on the South Coast, including the Sea to Sky Highway, and sections of some highways on Vancouver Island, including the Malahat and highways 4, 14 and 28.

Due to the less severe conditions in the Lower Mainland and southeastern Vancouver Island, winter tires are not mandatory in many areas along the coast.

According to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, appropriate winter tires will display either the M+S symbol, meaning mud and snow, or a mountain or snowflake symbol. The tires need to be in good condition, with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimetres.

Drivers unequipped with winter tires on designated B.C. highways can receive a fine of $121, according to the province.

Commercial vehicle operators are also required to carry chains on most routes in B.C., starting Oct. 1, with roadside signs indicating when they are necessary. Chains are not required on the Lower Mainland and most of Vancouver Island.