from October 1
The Province requires winter tires or chains on most B.C. highways from October 1. Booking before the last week of September is the difference between a quick appointment and a wait.
If you drive out of Vernon in winter — over the Coquihalla, up to Silver Star, or anywhere the signs go up — winter tires stop being a good idea and start being the law on October 1. Here is exactly what the Province requires, what counts, and the tread-depth rule that is easy to miss.
What B.C. law actually requires
The Province's wording is simple: "Drivers must obey winter tire and chain signs throughout the province from October 1 to April 30." On select highways that are not through mountain passes or high-snowfall areas, the requirement ends March 31 instead.
The rule is tied to the signs, not to a list you are expected to memorise. Designated sections are marked with roadside signs, so the practical test is whether the route you are taking is posted — and most routes out of the North Okanagan are.
Drive a posted section without compliant tires and the Province says you "may be turned around by RCMP, CVSE or another policing agency and be subject to a fine."
Which winter tires B.C. accepts
Two markings are accepted, and they are not equal:
The letters M and S on the sidewall. This is the legal minimum on posted routes. It covers mud and snow tires and most all-seasons.
The mountain-with-a-snowflake symbol, which also covers all-weather tires. The Province says these “offer better traction on snow and ice.” This is what we recommend.
The 3.5 mm rule almost nobody knows
Whichever symbol your tires carry, B.C. requires at least 3.5 mm of tread depth. A tire can have the right marking and still be illegal because it is worn.
Tread wears gradually, and a set that still looks serviceable in the garage can measure under the limit. Measuring is the only way to know.
If you are not sure of your tread depth, we will measure it.
When to book
The requirement begins October 1, so demand for changeovers concentrates in the weeks either side of that date.
Booking before the end of September generally means choosing your appointment time rather than taking what is left.
Common questions
Are all-season tires legal in B.C. in winter?
If they carry the M+S marking and have at least 3.5 mm of tread, they meet the legal minimum on posted routes. The Province recommends the 3-peak mountain/snowflake tire instead, stating those tires offer better traction on snow and ice.
When exactly does the requirement start and end?
October 1 to April 30 on most routes. Some highways that are not through mountain passes or high-snowfall areas end March 31. Obey the posted signs on the route you are actually driving.
How do I know if my tread is deep enough?
B.C. requires a minimum of 3.5 mm. Tread wears gradually and is hard to judge by eye, so have it measured. Book a service appointment and we will check it while you wait.
Do I need winter tires if I only drive around town?
The requirement applies to posted highway sections, so a driver who stays off those routes is not legally required to fit them. The Province recommends the 3-peak mountain/snowflake tire for driving in winter conditions regardless.
Book before the rush
We will measure your tread depth, tell you whether it meets the 3.5 mm minimum, and change your tires over if it does not. We are at 4602 27th Street in Vernon.