Snow Tire, Chain & Traction Device Requirements
To find out where traction devices are currently required click the button below.
Traction Law – Keeping our Canyons Safe
Traveling in winter weather is challenging, especially in the canyons. UDOT wants to keep you safe. During severe winter weather, Utah drivers must use traction devices on their vehicles in certain locations throughout the state.
UDOT or law enforcement agencies determine when road conditions require traction devices. Travelers are notified when they are required via road signs, message boards, the UDOT traffic app, and UDOT social media.
Be prepared, you may be required to be in compliance up to 24 hours before a storm.
(per Utah Administrative Code R920-6 Traction Device/Tire Chain Requirements)
Required Traction Devices
All-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles
Acceptable Tires:
- M/S or M+S tires*
- 3PMSF tires*
Also Acceptable:
- Traction devices, such as chains, snow socks, etc., on at least 2 drive tires**
2WD passenger cars and light duty trucks (Vehicles below 12,000 GVWR)
Minimum:
- 3PMSF tires*
Also Acceptable:
- Traction devices, such as chains, snow socks, etc., on all drive tires**
Vehicles over 12,000 GVWR (buses, trucks, etc)
Minimum:
- Traction devices, such as chains, snow socks, etc., on all drive tires***
*Class 3 Road Segments (Cottonwood Canyons) require acceptable tires with 5/32″ tread depth or traction devices.
**Drive tires are tires that receive power from the engine.
***Traction devices are only required for one tire in a dual mounting — for example, a truck with rear dual tires is acceptable with chains on the outer tire only.
We also have a more detailed online map available.
Winter Chains Required Routes Map
Heading to one of Utah’s recreational areas? Check out our area specific websites.
Use the links below to access the Utah State Code related the snow tire and chain requirements.
Utah Administrative Code R920-6 Snow Tire and Chain Requirements