Drivers must obey winter tire and chain signs throughout the province of British Columbia from October 1 to March 31.
The single axle truck on the regulatory signs represents ALL commercial vehicles.
Winter road conditions across most of B.C. often include snow and ice. We require commercial drivers who travel outside the temperate climates of the Greater Vancouver and Greater Victoria areas to carry chains or be equipped with other traction devices in the winter and to comply with all signage.
It is the responsibility for the operator of a vehicle to understand the conditions on the roads they travel and equip their vehicle for those conditions.
Commercial trucks weighing more than 5,000 kg GVW do not tend to use winter tires.
Vehicles 5,000 kg to 27,000 kg GVW may use tires with the 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol or the M+S symbol in lieu of chains, if available.
Commercial vehicles 27,000 kg GVW and greater, such as tractor trailers, are required to carry chains or be equipped with other traction devices on most major highways. Good practice is to keep chains on board at all times.
Out of Province Commercial Drivers
Out of province drivers should carry chains or other traction devices and plan on needing to use them. Rapid changes in elevation and weather can make British Columbia’s highway conditions unpredictable during winter months. You may start a trip in sunshine but face stretches of slush, ice, heavy snowfall or compact snow along the way.
Good practice is to keep chains on board at all times, and know how to install them.
Vehicles between 5,000 kg and 27,000 kg GVW may use winter tires in lieu of traction devices, if available.
