Are Tire Chains Legal in Ontario?

Tire chains are not legal in Ontario. The Highway Traffic Act is a province-wide act and therefore the rules are different from province to province. In Ontario, tire chains can only be used on vehicles that have 4×4 capabilities. Chains that are designed for cars will reduce your traction when driving on ice or snow and could cause accidents.

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Are tire chains legal in Ontario?

Tire chains are not legal in Ontario. This means that you cannot use them on any roads in Ontario, including the secondary highways and 400 series highways.

If you drive onto a highway with tire chains on your vehicle, you will be charged with an offense under the Highway Traffic Act of Ontario. The fine for driving with tire chains is $110 and three demerit points.

What is the Highway Traffic Act?

The Highway Traffic Act is a province-wide act that applies to all vehicles on the roads in Ontario. It covers everything from car seatbelts and snow tires, to speed limits and other traffic regulations.

Are there different Rules in Québec and British Columbia?

In Québec, tire chains are allowed on any road if a warning sign indicates that you need them. If there’s no sign, it’s up to your discretion whether or not to use them. In British Columbia, tire chains are allowed on all highways except the Sea-to-Sky Highway and Highway 99. However, there are some exceptions for when they’re not permitted:

  • Tire chains are never allowed during a snowstorm—if you’re driving in winter conditions (snow/ice) on any highway or road in BC with insufficient traction at the time of travel or due to weather conditions that create slippery roads (rain, slush), then you aren’t allowed to use tire chain devices
  • Tire chain devices aren’t legal for commercial trucks with fewer than 4 axles that weigh under 3 tonnes each; however this excludes heavy trucks transporting goods over highways where signs indicate “Tire Chain Requirements” will be posted by the Ministry of Transportation
 

does the Highway Traffic Act apply to any vehicles on Ontario highways?

The Highway Traffic Act applies to any motor vehicle on any highway in Ontario. It also applies to all motor vehicles on all roads within Canada. The Highway Traffic Act does not apply to vehicles used for farming purposes, or to a vehicle less than 3.2 meters in width that is being towed by another vehicle. It also doesn’t apply to vehicles travelling on roads that are designated as controlled-access highways (like the 401).

Takeaways

The Highway Traffic Act is a province-wide act. This means that the same rules apply to all drivers in Ontario, regardless of where they live or what type of vehicle they’re driving. The law does not differentiate between highways and city roads; it applies equally across all types of roads in Ontario. That said, some municipalities may have their own bylaws that make tire chains illegal on certain types of streets—you should check with your local police department if you want to drive through these areas with tire chains attached to your car.

 

Disclaimer: The following information is provided for enthusiasts to learn more about Ontario’s tire chain laws. Please keep in mind that Ontario laws are subject to change, and it is critical to consult the most recent statutes and regulations in order to ensure accurate information. You should not rely solely on the following information, and RepairDost disclaims any liability for damages resulting from such reliance. Visit Ontario Highway Traffic Act for more information.