Province by province The rule where you live.
Pick a province for the details.
Quebec British Columbia Ontario Other provinces
Mandatory by law Quebec When December 1 to March 15, every year Which tires Three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, or studded tires; M+S alone doesn't count Who Passenger vehicles registered in Quebec, rentals included Fine $200 to $300 plus fees Designated highways British Columbia When October 1 to April 30 on most designated routes; some end March 31 Which tires M+S or three-peak mountain snowflake, with at least 3.5 mm of tread Studs Permitted October 1 to April 30 Fine $121, and you can be turned back Insurance incentive Ontario Law Winter tires aren't mandatory Insurance Since 2016, insurers must offer a winter-tire discount; each sets its own amount and dates Studs Restricted to Northern Ontario Tip Ask for the discount: it isn't always applied automatically No provincial mandate Other provinces & territories Law As of 2026, no other province mandates winter tires Reality Prairie cold, Atlantic freezing rain and northern winters all call for them Studs Seasons and rules vary; check locally Insurance Many insurers offer discounts; ask yours General information summarised from provincial and safety sources as of October 2026, not legal advice.
