Chains and studded tires are fine when needed. In fact, you can be fined for not having proper tires. Generally Winter tires or chains are required on most routes in British Columbia from October 1 to April 30.
The Ministry of Transportation will have signs posted: “Use Winter Tires or Carry Chains Beyond this Point, Oct.1-April 30.” Any vehicle found crossing that point without proper tires is subject to a fine.
Truckers only need to carry, not install, chains at this point. However, when encountering a sign or flashing amber lights with a message that indicates vehicles over a certain posted GVW must use chains, then tire chains MUST be installed.
Depending on the LGVW, vehicle type, and configuration of commercial vehicle, the requirements vary for type, number, and placement of chains or acceptable traction devices. Learn proper tire chain configurations for commercial vehicles (PDF)
Studded tires with studs up to 3.5 mm high are allowed from Oct. 1 to April 30. A limit of 175 studs per tire for vehicles that weight more than 4,600 kg, 130 studs for those weighing less.
