Winter tyres and chains: the “loi Montagne”
Since winter 2021–2022, driving in the mountains in winter has required specific equipment. Every resort on this site is affected.
Published on
What the rule says
From 1 November to 31 March, in the mountain municipalities designated by prefectoral order, a vehicle must either run on winter tyres or carry snow chains or snow socks for at least two driving wheels. This is the decree of 16 October 2020, issued under the French “loi Montagne” (mountain law).
The signs
One sign marks the start of the zone at its entrance, another marks its end. When snow conditions require it, a “special equipment compulsory” sign means chains must be fitted, even with winter tyres, on the stretch indicated.
What it changes for a transfer
Alpine Transfert’s van runs on winter tyres from November to March and carries chains. When a resort road requires chains, the driver fits them: allow an extra quarter of an hour.
The final climbs are the most exposed: after Sallanches towards Megève, from Arâches to Flaine, from Morzine to Avoriaz, from Moûtiers towards Courchevel.