In certain high altitude areas, the Mountain law requires the use of snow tires. From November 1, in Haute-Loire as elsewhere, the regulations are changing: tires marked only “M+S” will no longer be sufficient.
From November 1, 2024 until March 31, 2025, in 34 French departments, it is compulsory to equip vehicles with snow tires or to have snow chains or socks. Winter tires must be marked with the “3PMSF” (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake) symbol to be compliant.
Tires marked only “M+S” will no longer be considered winter tires after this date. All-season tires must also bear the “3PMSF” marking to be accepted as winter tires. Vehicles equipped with studded tires are exempt from this obligation.
Improve road safety
The Mountain Law requires vehicles circulating in certain municipalities in the mountain departments (Alps, Corsica, Massif Central, Jura Massif, Pyrenees and Vosges Massif) to equip themselves with winter tires or anti-slip devices (chains, socks) between November 1 and March 31. This measure aims to improve road safety in winter conditions.
Dominique Stempfel, president of the Tire Union, explains that until November 1, 2024, tires marked M+S (Mud and Snow) are tolerated as winter tires. After this date, only tires marked 3PMSF (3 Peaks Mountain Snow Flake) will be recognized as winter tires. The 3PMSF marking guarantees that the tires have passed performance tests in winter conditions, unlike M+S tires which are not subject to such tests.
After prevention, time for repression?
3PMSF tires are identifiable by a three-peaked mountain symbol with a snowflake. All-season tires can also be used if they carry this marking. Snow chains or socks remain an alternative, but they do not guarantee the same level of safety as winter tires on slippery roads.
Discover the list of 161 municipalities in Puy-de-Dôme where winter equipment is mandatory for travel
Since the introduction of this law, the authorities have adopted an educational approach, recalling the obligations without immediately sanctioning offenders. The decision is not yet official for this year, but the repression could come into force: offenders would then be exposed to a fine of 150 euros without loss of points.
