Winter tyres to become compulsory in parts of France
Drivers in 48 départements might have to equip their vehicles with winter tyres next year, according to a new French law.
A new government decree gives local authorities in 48 of France's 96 mainland départements the power to impose rules requiring winter tyres from November 2021, when the rules enter into effect.
The head of "the département decides ... the list of municipalities where obligations regarding vehicle equipment applies during the winter period," the decree states.
The winter period begins on November 1st and end on March 31st.
Until now, winter tyres have been voluntary in France, except in special, indicated cases. This is contrary to many other European countries where they are mandated by law.
READ ALSO Winter tyres and snow chains: What are the rules in France?
The new rules will change this in certain areas, especially mountainous parts of France where roads become icy and slippery in the winter.
The decree does not say which 48 départements are concerned by the new rule.
It does however add that some lighter vehicles (of the categories M1 and N1) can opt for chains instead of winter tyres.
Local authorities may also make localised exemptions on certain roads and sections of roads, according to the decree.
Comments (1)
See Also
A new government decree gives local authorities in 48 of France's 96 mainland départements the power to impose rules requiring winter tyres from November 2021, when the rules enter into effect.
The head of "the département decides ... the list of municipalities where obligations regarding vehicle equipment applies during the winter period," the decree states.
The winter period begins on November 1st and end on March 31st.
Until now, winter tyres have been voluntary in France, except in special, indicated cases. This is contrary to many other European countries where they are mandated by law.
READ ALSO Winter tyres and snow chains: What are the rules in France?
The new rules will change this in certain areas, especially mountainous parts of France where roads become icy and slippery in the winter.
The decree does not say which 48 départements are concerned by the new rule.
It does however add that some lighter vehicles (of the categories M1 and N1) can opt for chains instead of winter tyres.
Local authorities may also make localised exemptions on certain roads and sections of roads, according to the decree.
Join the conversation in our comments section below. Share your own views and experience and if you have a question or suggestion for our journalists then email us at [email protected].
Please keep comments civil, constructive and on topic – and make sure to read our terms of use before getting involved.
Please log in here to leave a comment.