UDOT

New rules allow enforcement before storms and strengthen tire standards

SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 13, 2025) — The Utah Department of Transportation and its enforcement partners are implementing new traction law updates this winter that expand enforcement and strengthen safety requirements for drivers in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon. 

Thanks to legislation passed earlier this year (HB 196) UDOT can now enforce traction requirements up to 24 hours before a storm begins, giving drivers more time to prepare before snow starts falling. The updated administrative rule also adds a new “Class Three” designation, which allows stricter enforcement during major storms and requires vehicles in the Cottonwood Canyons to have at least 5/32 inch of tire tread. In addition, law enforcement agencies may now issue citations to people violating the traction law.

“Our new, enhanced traction requirements are all about safety,” UDOT Region Two Director Robert Stewart said. “These updates make sure drivers have the right equipment before heading into the canyons, even if a storm rolls in while they’re parked. We hope this gives everyone more peace of mind knowing they, and the drivers around them, are ready for winter conditions.”

To help drivers prepare, UDOT is again offering the free Cottonwood Canyons Sticker Program, which provides voluntary winter tire inspections at more than 140 tire shops along the Wasatch Front and Back. Inspections run from Nov. 13 to Feb. 28 of 2026.

UDOT launched the sticker program in 2021 to make canyon travel safer and simpler. Recent survey results show the program is working, with 86% of participants saying they’ve noticed more vehicles in the canyon are properly equipped for winter, and 71% reporting enforcement is improving overall travel in the canyons.  

“It takes all of us working together to keep our canyons safe,” Stewart said. “Winter recreation is a Utah tradition we all value. A little preparation now means more time enjoying the mountains, and less time worrying about safety or compliance.”

Drivers are also encouraged to plan ahead, slow down and consider using transit to reach ski resorts. Real-time updates on canyon conditions are available on UDOT Cottonwoods social media accounts or on this website.

Traction law enforcement is handled by the Cottonwood Heights and Sandy City police departments, with additional support from the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office for roadside and parking enforcement.