It’s winter tire time in most of B.C. next week

Now that temperatures have turned cooler and the days have gotten shorter, drivers across B.C. might be starting to wonder when they should install winter tires.

Winter tires and chains are required on most highways across the province starting Oct. 1 and until April 30. For select highways that don't go through mountain passes or through high snowfall areas, tire and chain requirements end March 31.

Motorists who do not comply may be turned away and fined, according to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

All-season mud and snow (M+S) tires and mountain/snowflake tires meet the requirements for winter tires in B.C., according to ICBC.

“(Mud and Show) tires are a safe option if you only encounter winter conditions on a limited basis and are prepared to drive with added care and caution if winter conditions are encountered,” ICBC says.

For more information on winter tires and winter driving, visit ICBC’s website here.

For a list of routes across B.C. requiring winter tires visit the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s website here.

Government of B.C.

Government of B.C.


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Karen Edwards

Originally from southern Ontario, Karen Edwards moved out west after completing her journalism diploma at Durham College. She first began reporting in northern Alberta for a small town newspaper. The busy two-person newsroom taught Karen the importance of accurate and fast reporting. Now working for iNFO News, she is excited to report in a larger community. Karen has written for all kinds of news, including education, crime and mental health. Her background also includes video journalism and documentary production.

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