Throwing iron

Trucking is a complicated business. The laws and regulations remain complex from the federal level all the way down to the local level. While this applies to many laws and regulations, none seem to be more complex than chain laws.

With winter right around the corner and likely some storms already happening, Land Line brings you our annual state-by-state chain law guide. Keep this magazine in your truck during the coming months to help guide you through the winter weather.

This list is checked each year to ensure accuracy. Although the information has been updated, it’s still a good idea to check with a state’s department of transportation. With inclement weather, state governments tend to make decisions on the fly when conditions get really bad. Some states may require chains on certain highways under certain conditions, so always check a state’s 511 system before driving in winter weather.

Alaska

When chains are permitted depends on location:

• No chains from April 15 through Sept. 30 below 60 degrees north latitude
• No chains from May 1 through Sept. 15 above 60 degrees north latitude

There is one exception: They are not allowed on the paved portions of the Sterling Highway from May 1 through Sept. 15. The commissioner of public safety shall by emergency order provide additional lawful operating periods based on unusual seasonal or weather conditions.

California

California does not require trucks to carry chains during any specified time period. When the weather hits, though, it takes at least eight chains for a standard tractor-trailer configuration to comply with the regulations.

Chains or cables?

Conventional tire chains and cable chains are permitted, as are other less-conventional devices such as Spikes-Spider winter traction devices. Trucks with cable-type chains are legal but may be restricted at times due to severe conditions, which can happen commonly at higher elevations such as Donner Pass.

California is OK with automatic chaining systems. However, anyone with automatic chains may still be required to add more “traditional” chains to fully comply with the placement requirements.

Placement

California’s chain requirements for an 18-wheeler are as follows:

• All four tires on the single drive axle
• The two outside tires on each of the dual drive axles
• One tire on each side of the trailer (front or rear axle or staggered is OK)
• No chains are required on the steering axle

Route specific

Chains are most often required in the higher mountain passes of Northern California, such as:

• Interstate 5 north of Redding
• Interstate 80 over Donner Pass between Sacramento and Reno
• S. Highway 50 over Echo Summit between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento

Chains are also sometimes required on these roads:

• State Route 58 near Tehachapi between Bakersfield and Mojave
• Interstate 15 over Cajon Pass between Victorville and San Bernardino
• Interstate 5 over Tejon Pass between Los Angeles and Bakersfield

However, snow can fall unseasonably at higher elevations at many locations in California. Chains may be required at any time at these higher elevations when conditions warrant.

Colorado

Colorado’s chain law applies to every state, federal and interstate highway throughout the state. The chain law is in effect when drivers are notified by roadside signs. Drivers also may call 511. Truckers will need chains for the four tires of the drive axle to be in compliance when the law is in effect. There is no requirement to carry extra chains or cables.

All vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating or a gross combination weight rating of at least 16,001 pounds that are traveling on I-70 between mile marker 133, Dotsero, and mile marker 259, Morrison, must carry sufficient chains to be in compliance from Sept. 1 through May 31. The state provides about two dozen chain-up locations along the I-70 corridor. If you get busted without chains on this stretch of road, you will be fined $50 plus a $17 surcharge.

Violating Colorado’s chain law anywhere in the state comes at a cost. Drivers can be fined $500, plus a $79 surcharge, for not putting on chains when required. And any who block the roadway because they didn’t chain up when the law was in effect can be dinged with a $1,000 fine plus a $157 surcharge.

There are two levels of the Colorado chain law:

• Level 1/Code 17 – Single-drive-axle, combination commercial vehicles must chain up all four drive tires. Cables are not allowed in this instance. All other commercial vehicles must have either snow tires or chains to proceed.
• Level 2/Code 18 – Chains are required for all commercial vehicles. Again, all four tires of single-drive tractors must be chained. Dual-drive-axle tractors require chains only on the four drive tires. Outside tires of drive axles must have chains. Inside tires may have cables.

Chains or cables?

The short answer is there are a lot of options. The following are the approved devices, along with any design specifications and/or any restrictions on the use of the devices:

• Metal chains that consist of two circular metal loops, one on each side of the tire, connected by at least nine evenly spaced loops across the tread. Dual tire chains are acceptable.
• Wheel sanders that carry enough sand to get the vehicle through the restricted area.
• Automatic chains that spin under the drive wheels automatically as traction is lost.
• Textile traction device, a fabric boot that encompasses the tire. The only textile device that has been approved for use on Colorado highways is the AutoSock.

Cables are allowed in only two instances. The first is if they are made with steel cross-member rollers of 0.415 inches or greater in diameter (and even those can’t be used on single-drive-axle tractors). Secondly, they can be used on tires when chains are not already required.

The Colorado regulations give the state department of transportation and the highway patrol authority to dictate when chain laws go into effect. The regulations only address design and placement.

Wait it out in Colorado?

For those who really don’t want to chain up or if conditions have made roads impassable, Colorado has added information about emergency parking on I-70.

When things get really bad, the state may open emergency parking east of mile marker 133.

“There is no truck parking east of milepost 133 or in the Vail Valley. Trucks waiting out a chain law or Vail Pass closure should not proceed past Dotsero, Exit 133,” the Colorado State Patrol’s website states. “If you have already passed milepost 133, you will need to chain up, if required. There is no long-term parking until you reach Denver. If you are traveling westbound, you will need to find parking in the metro Denver area before heading up the first grade near Morrison.”

Connecticut

Cables and chains are allowed only from Nov. 15 through April 30. No minimum number of chains is outlined in the regulations. Violators will first receive a warning, but all subsequent offenses will result in a fine not more than $200.

Delaware

Here’s another state that allows the use of tire chains “for safety because of snow, ice or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to slide or skid.” The use of studded tires on all motor vehicles using the highways is allowed from Oct. 15 through April 15.

State officials can restrict travel on highways during emergency situations. Travel is limited by a two-level system.

The Level II driving restriction allows travel only by emergency vehicles, essential government personnel, health care providers and vehicles carrying food and fuel.

A Level III driving ban limits travel to only emergency vehicles and essential employees, such as snowplow operators. The Level III ban also prohibits retaliation by employers against employees complying with the travel ban.

Previously, the state operated with a three-level system. At Level I, motorists were encouraged to use extreme caution when traveling roadways and advised to avoid nonessential travel. This part of the statute has since been repealed.

Florida

There’s nothing in the state statutes. Tire chains probably aren’t a necessity in the Sunshine State.

Georgia

As with most states that rarely encounter snow and ice, Georgia will allow the use of tire chains or tires equipped with safety metal spike studs upon any vehicle when required for safety due to snow or ice.

The Georgia DOT may close or limit access to portions of a state highway due to inclement weather. In the event this occurs, signs will be posted to communicate to drivers that tire chains are required to proceed.

For commercial vehicles with four or more drive wheels, tire chains must be installed on each of the outermost drive tires when driving on a road that has been declared “limited access” due to inclement weather.

Previously, any four drive wheel tires required chains.

“Tire chains” are defined as “metal chains (that) consist of two circular metal loops, positioned on each side of a tire, connected by not less than nine evenly spaced chains across the tire tread or any other traction devices as provided for by rules and regulations of the commissioner of public safety.”

Furthermore, any driver who causes a wreck or blocks the flow of traffic when not complying with the above laws on a limited-access highway can be fined up to $1,000.

Hawaii

It doesn’t seem Hawaii would need a tire chain law, but it has one. Tire chains are permissible “on either the Mauna Kea access road above Hale Pohaku or on any other road within the Mauna Kea Science Reserve leased to the University of Hawaii.”

Idaho

Officials in Idaho can determine, at any time, that Lookout Pass on I-90, Fourth of July Pass on I-90 or Lolo Pass on U.S. Highway 12 are unsafe, either individually or as a group. If that happens, signs will alert drivers to chain up.

If the alert is in effect, drivers must chain up at least one tire on each side of the drive axles and one axle at or near the rear of each trailer. Idaho defines chains as two circular metal loops, one on each side of the tire, connected by not less than nine evenly spaced chains across the tread.

On a side note, studs are prohibited from May 1 through Sept. 30.

Indiana

In addition to tire chains allowed when needed, Indiana also allows “tires in which have been inserted ice grips or tire studs, including retractable tire studs” from Oct. 1 through May 1. Just make sure those studs are no more than 3/32 of an inch beyond the tread of the traction surface and do not damage the road.

Kentucky

There are no specific dates for the use of tire chains or how many must be used. However, the state is specific about the type of chains that are allowed.

Here’s the exact language from the Kentucky statute: “Where chains are used on rubber-tired vehicles, the cross chains shall be not more than three-fourths (3/4) of an inch in thickness or diameter, and shall be spaced not more than 10 inches apart, around the circumference of the tires.”

Maine

Vehicles cannot have tires with metal studs, wires, spikes or other metal protruding from the tire tread from May 1 through Oct. 1. Anyone wanting to run studded tires outside of that timeframe must apply for a special permit. Other than then, there is nothing noted within the law regulating the use of tire chains. That timeframe can be extended if needed.

Maryland

The Maryland regulations can be misleading. In one section, the state has the boilerplate language allowing the use of snow chains if needed.

However, elsewhere the regulations state that chains may be required in Maryland if a snow emergency is declared. Snow emergencies can be declared for individual roads or statewide. Travel – other than for motorcycles – is prohibited on any highway that is designated and appropriately marked by signs as a vehicle emergency route when a snow emergency is in effect, unless the vehicle is equipped with chains or snow tires on at least one wheel at each end of a driving axle.

The regulations also state, “From Nov. 1 through March 31, owners of vehicles registered in Allegany County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Garrett County or Washington County are exempt from the prohibition of the use of tires … (with) any block, stud, flange, cleat or spike or any other protuberance of any material, other than rubber, that projects beyond the tread of the traction surface of the tire.”

Massachusetts

Massachusetts prohibits the use of studded tires and chains from May 1 through Nov. 1 without a permit. The law does not specifically mention chains. However, the Massachusetts State Patrol confirmed the regulation applies to chains. It also should be noted that commercial vehicles can be ordered off roadways during “snow emergencies.”

Missouri

According to state law, “No person shall operate any motor vehicle upon any road or highway of this state between the first day of April and the first day of November while the motor vehicle is equipped with tires containing metal or carbide studs.”

Montana

The chain law goes into effect when roadside signs tell all drivers to chain up. The state’s requirement when the law is in effect is for all “driver wheels” to be chained. The use of pneumatic tires that feature an embedded block, stud, flange, cleat, spike or other protuberance that is retractable is allowed only from Oct. 1 through May 31, except that one of those tires may be used for a spare in case of tire failure. Violations will result in a $250 fine for failure to use chains or a $750 fine when this failure causes a closure of all lanes in one or both directions of a highway.

Nevada

There aren’t specific dates for chain laws to be in effect. Roadside signs will let drivers know when chaining up is required. In Nevada, truckers will need to chain at least two wheels on the main drive axle. Drivers also are required to chain “two braking wheels of any trailing vehicle in a combination of vehicles.”

New Jersey

New Jersey goes a little beyond the standard “chains are permitted when needed” directive. The state allows chains of reasonable proportions when roads, streets and highways are slippery due to rain, snow, ice, oil, manner of construction or other reason.

However, no chains can be used at any time on improved highways when highway conditions do not make such use necessary for the “safety of life or property.” Also, New Jersey prohibits the use of chains “likely to be thrown so as to endanger any person or property.”

New York

If New York officials, either state or local, post a route as a snow emergency route, all vehicles traveling on it will be required to have snow tires and/or chains. There are no specifics mandating the number of chains or placement.

North Dakota

In addition to the standard “chains whenever reasonably needed,” North Dakota also allows metal studs up to 1/16 inch beyond tread from Oct. 15 through April 15.

Ohio

Pretty much the same as North Dakota, but studded tires can be used starting on Nov. 1 rather than Oct. 15.

Oklahoma

State code permits chains “of reasonable proportions” upon any vehicle when required for safety due to snow, ice or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to skid. Sounds pretty basic, but there’s a catch: “The use of such tires or tire chains shall be limited to vehicles with rated capacities up to and including 2 tons.” In other words, trucks are not allowed to have tire chains.

Oregon

Oregon’s law applies to all highways in the state. Signs tell drivers when they are required to carry chains and when they are required to use them. Truckers need to have six chains on hand to comply in Oregon.

Placement

Again, there are a few options when it comes to which of a tractor’s tires must be chained:

• A tandem-drive-axle tractor must have chains on two tires on each side of the primary drive axle (in other words, all four tires of the main axle).
• If both axles are powered, the tractor must have chains on one tire on each side of each drive axle (again, four chains total are required, just not on the inside tires).

On the trailer, here’s the deal.

Chains also must be placed on two tires, one on each side, staggered with one on the outside tire of the front axle and one on the outside tire of the opposite rear axle. Drivers who fail to comply with the law could face an $880 fine. However, the costs can increase if the chainless truck crashes into another vehicle.

Pennsylvania

This is another state that can declare emergency snow routes. If officials declare an emergency snow route when the roadway is covered with ice or snow, only vehicles with snow tires or “tire chains on two tires on a driven axle” may proceed.

South Dakota

The South Dakota DOT has the authority to restrict travel on roads. Signs will alert drivers to these restrictions. Violating the restrictions could result in a Class 2 misdemeanor conviction. Tire chains or “sufficient traction devices” are allowed. Drivers don’t have to wait for the signs to tell them to put on chains; chains also are allowed if conditions tending to cause a skid are present. For the most part, traction devices are allowed only from Oct. 1 through April 30.

Tennessee

There has been some confusion about chain laws in Tennessee, which may be why the Tennessee Department of Safety posted a video on Facebook explaining them. Simply put, anyone planning to drive in an area of Tennessee with inclement weather must carry at least one set of chains, according to Lt. Bill Miller. He did not say drivers have to use them, however. Perhaps another video is in order.

Utah

The Utah DOT or law enforcement agencies have the authority to determine when road conditions require traction devices. Drivers will be notified with road signs, message boards, UDOT’s traffic app and UDOT’s social media accounts.

When inclement conditions hit Utah, trucks must have traction devices. Certain sections of highways require them during severe winter weather. A map designating these can be found on UDOT’s website.

Essentially, the state can restrict travel on highways at any time from Oct. 1 through April 30 to only vehicles equipped with traction devices. A Class B misdemeanor fine of up to $1,000 can apply for violating chain laws.

UDOT defines traction devices as those that improve tire traction on icy or snowy roads through the use of high-friction objects. Examples include tire chains, sand distribution devices, tire studs and other devices similar in function. A vehicle is considered appropriately equipped when it has devices on all tires, with an exception allowed in the case of dual tires, where at least one in the dual mounting must have a traction device.

Vermont

Vermont states that the secretary of transportation, the commissioner of motor vehicles, the commissioner of public safety or their designees have the authority to decide if the use of chains will be required. The regulation mandates that the “advance notice shall be given to the traveling public through signage and, whenever possible, through public service announcements.” This language also mandates that adequate space be provided to chain up.

Vehicles with semitrailers or trailers that have a tandem-drive axle towing a trailer shall have chains:

• On two tires on each side of the primary drive axle, or if both axles of the vehicle are powered by the drive line, on one tire on each side of each drive axle
• On one tire of the front axle and one tire on one of the rear axles of the trailer

Failing to chain up when required can result in a fine of $1,000. That fine doubles if noncompliance impedes the flow of traffic on a highway.

Washington

Chains must be carried Nov. 1 through March 31. It takes five chains to comply with the requirement. However, all vehicles of more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight must carry two extra chains in the event that road conditions require the use of more chains or if chains in use are broken or otherwise useless.

Chains or cables?

Chains must have two sides attached with cross sections. Cables are allowed. Plastic chains are prohibited.

Placement

On a dual-axle tractor, the outside tires on both axles will need to be chained in addition to one tire on either side of either trailer axle. Tractors equipped with wide-base singles will have to chain each tire on each drive axle.

Route specific

All vehicles and combinations of vehicles of more than 10,000 pounds must carry sufficient tire chains from Nov. 1 through April 1 on the following routes:

• I-90 between North Bend (mile marker 32) and Ellensburg (mile marker 101)
• I-82 between Ellensburg Exit 3 (mile marker 3) and Selah Exit 26 (mile marker 26)
• SR 97 between mile marker 145 and the junction with SR 2
• SR 2 between Dryden (mile marker 108) and Index (mile marker 36)
• SR 12 between Packwood (mile marker 135) and Naches (mile marker 187)
• SR 97 between the Columbia River (mile marker 0) and Toppenish (mile marker 59)
• SR 410 from Enumclaw to Naches
• SR 20 between Tonasket (mile marker 262) and Kettle Falls (mile marker 342)
• SR 155 between Omak (mile marker 79) and Nespelem (mile marker 45)
• SR 970 between mile marker 0 and mile marker 10
• SR 14 between Gibbons Creek (mile marker 18) and intersection of Cliffs Road (mile marker 108.40)
• SR 542 Mount Baker Highway between mile marker 22.91 and mile marker 57.26

Wyoming

When Wyoming officials enact the chain law, commercial vehicles must have chains on at least two of the drive wheels of the vehicle at opposite ends of the same drive axle. Signs will notify drivers when the chain law is in effect.

Not complying can cost drivers a minimum of $250, but anyone who blocks a highway due to failing to use chains can expect a $750 fine. LL

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