New regulations come into force on many roads in France.
As of November 1, 2024, new regulations come into force on many roads in France. This obligation impacts millions of drivers since it will ban certain types of tires in 34 departments. This measure, which will extend until March 31, 2025, reinforces the Mountain law, introduced since 2021 in mountainous areas.
Concretely, during the winter period, only tires bearing the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake) marking will be authorized. This label, recognizable by its logo representing three mountain peaks and a snowflake on the side of the tire, guarantees more rigorous approval and better performance on snow, ice and black ice.
Conversely, standard tires will be prohibited. Likewise, tires bearing only the M+S (Mud and Snow) or 4S (4 seasons) designations will no longer be considered to comply with the legislation, although they perform better in cold weather. If they do not have this type of tire, motorists always have the option of having removable equipment in the vehicle as an alternative to winter tires. Snow chains or socks remain valid options for traveling in areas covered by the Mountain Law.
The areas affected by this regulation cover the main French mountain ranges: the Pyrenees, the Alps, the Massif Central, the Vosges, the Jura and Corsica. These areas are clearly identifiable thanks to the B58 signs, which display mountains, a tire and a suitcase.
The Mountain law can apply to an entire department, as is the case for Haute-Savoie. But, for other departments, the law only applies in a few municipalities. For example, in Jura, it is effective in 272 municipalities out of 494. The prefectures of each department define in advance the list of towns in which the measure is introduced. This list is available on the road safety website.
In theory, the Mountain Law is accompanied by dissuasive sanctions for offenders. Motorists who do not comply with this new regulation face a fine of 135 euros. Law enforcement also has the ability to immobilize non-compliant vehicles. However, the decree implementing the sanctions has not been signed by the government. Thus, the police will limit themselves to preventive actions, without the possibility of verbalization. Motorists who do not comply with the regulations will receive a simple reminder of the law.
Drivers residing in these areas or planning to travel there are therefore invited to check their equipment and comply with the new regulations before the start of the winter period. This measure concerns all types of vehicles circulating in the mountainous areas covered by the law.
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