In the relevant 34 sections of the Mountain II law, only municipalities designated by the prefecture are concerned with the obligation to install snow tires. Milan – Stock.adobe.com
Until March 31, 2024, vehicles must be equipped with suitable winter tires or removable equipment. Here’s our map to find out if you’re affected.
Mountain Law II, year 3. In half of the French provinces, the obligation to fit winter tires, known as “snow tyres”, or to install chains on your vehicle is valid for the third year in a row from 1 November 2023 until 31 March. 2024.
Map and search engine: Which departments and municipalities will be affected in 2023-2024?
Even though 48 departments are potentially affected by this law, because they are located in white or risk areas, the measure ultimately only applies to: 4174 municipalities related to 34 episodes (Alps, Corsica, Central Massif, Jurassic massif, Pyrenees, Vosges massif). Purpose: To limit accidents and traffic congestion (especially at the entrance) winter sports centers) may be caused by inadequate equipment.
What kind of equipment is required?
Cars, vans, 4x4s, SUVs and caravans“You should either have removable anti-slip devices (chains and socks) or have your vehicle fitted with winter tires.», Details of the Road Safety website. These “snow tires” are defined by one of the following: “M+S”, “MS” or “M&S” markings or one of these signs and “Alpine symbol” known under the name “3PMSF” (3 Peak Mountain Snowflakes). From 1 November 2024, only “3PMSF” tires will be accepted. These tires shed water and mud more quickly and improve handling and braking.
Even if you are a simple tourist whose obligation passes through one of the relevant municipalities, you need to arm yourself with this. To avoid regular changes, it may also be interesting to switch to so-called “all-season” tires, even if winter tires are more effective when faced with heavy snow or ice. This may represent a certain investment, but it may not necessarily be profitable if you use this equipment only a few days a year. Are you looking for an alternative to the highway? Some mountain resorts accessible by train and seasonal service, both in France andin europe.
Also readWhich ski resorts are most accessible by train from Paris?
What are the penalties given?
Since the law was implemented in 2021, authorities have not imposed any sanctions on violators. And that will be the case again this year.
“However, in order to give time to comply with the obligation (…), no sanctions will be imposed in the 2023-2024 winter season.
This tolerance should not make us forget the spirit of the regulation: ‘Continue to improve the safety of road users during the winter months’» indicates that: Road Safety website. The decree stipulating a fine of 135 euros in this case was not published in the Official Gazette.
What about elsewhere in Europe?
In the absence of European regulations, Each country implements its own measures, As the European Consumer Center (CEC) reminds. Therefore, there is no liability. United Kingdominside Belgium or Holland. Snow tires are mandatory Germanyinside Austria or in Norway only when climatic conditions require it (black ice, heavy snow, sleet, ice chips or frost).
In the Baltic countries, Finland or Finland their use is mandatory for a certain period of time. Sweden. Finally, Spain And ItalyDrivers are required to fit snow tires to their vehicles only when required by road signs.
This article is being updated.
