Driving conditions are poised to worsen over the coming months, with several highways on Vancouver Island subject to increased tire and chain requirements. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

be prepared

Some Island highways now under winter tire requirements

Oct 2, 2025 | 4:04 PM

NANAIMO — A select number of area highways have new requirements for tire condition and type, with October upon us.

Chains or appropriate winter, or mud and snow, tires are now required on the Malahat, Hwy. 4 to Tofino and Hwy. 19 north of Campbell River, as of Wednesday, Oct. 1.

Trace Acres from the organization Road Safety at Work said the start of the month and the corresponding changes to driving conditions are important reminders winter is coming.

“It’s a good time to check your tires as we bask in summer-like conditions, you may not want to put them on right away but as long as you’ve got the M&S rated all season tires, you’re still compliant. But when the temperature starts to drop, that’s when you really need to think about installing your winter tires.”

All vehicles must comply with the regulations, although not all are required to have specialized tires.

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Vehicles between 5,000 and 12,000 kilograms have the option to change tires or carry chains, while commercial vehicles over 12,000 kilograms are required to carry chains but are not mandated to switch tires.

Acres said most newer vehicles with adequate mud and snow rated tires are fine.

“They have to be in good condition, they have to have a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimetres, they can’t have any bald spots or chunks missing. In winter conditions…anything below seven degrees Celsius, that’s when winter tires will give you the best protection and best performance and be the safest in winter conditions.”

Consequences for failing to have adequate tires, aside from potential damage or injury to yourself, your vehicles, or others, include being denied travel on a particular route, ticketing under the Motor Vehicle Act or Criminal Code charges.

Acres said police will often setup checkpoints at the start of sections of highway.

He added now is also the time to check fluid levels are topped up, windshield wipers are in good condition and vehicles have properly stocked emergency kits.

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