THE ‘LOI MONTAGNE’ LAW

What is the ‘Loi Montagne’ law?

The ‘Loi Montagne’ was published in the Official Journal of the French Republic on 16 October 2020, for application as of 1 November 2021. The ‘Loi Montagne’ imposes the use of winter tyres, all-season tyres, snow chains, or snow socks. Decree No. 2020-1264 thus aims to improve safety and traffic conditions for road users in case of snow or ice on the road surface.

It applies to the French territory only. In case of travel to another European country, you should therefore find out about local laws concerning vehicle equipment.

To which vehicles does this apply?

Under the provisions of the ‘Loi Montagne’ law, vehicle equipment obligations during the winter period apply to:

• light vehicles (cars), light commercial vehicles (vans), as well as camper vans (categories M1 and N1).
• Heavy goods vehicles without trailers or semi-trailers, coaches and buses (categories M2, M3, N2, and N3).
• Heavy goods vehicles with trailers or semi-trailers (categories N2 and N3).

Which French departments are affected?

This obligation applies to all road users in these areas, not just the residents of the departments listed.

Which types of equipment are authorised?

You can use:

• Winter tyres: for optimum performance and reduced risk of accidents.
• Winter-approved all-season tyres: for year-round safety. These include the Continental All Season Contact the Michelin CrossClimate 2, the Bridgestone Weather Control A005 Evo and the Goodyear Vector 4 Seasons Gen3, which are all amongst the best on the market.

A tip from Pneus Online: The markings "M + S" (Mud + Snow) and 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snow Flake) on certain tyres are also a guarantee of effectiveness on snowy ground. Tyres with the M+S marking only will be tolerated until 1 November 2024.
You can also keep slip prevention devices such as the following in your car:

• Snow chains: for those who often travel on snowy roads.
• Snow socks: effective and quick to use.

Heavy goods vehicles with a trailer or semi-trailer must have snow chains to equip at least two drive wheels, even if they are already equipped with winter tyres.

When will this affect you?

The ‘Loi Montagne’ law applies from 1 November to 31 March.

How can you recognise the new road signs?

To help you identify the areas affected by the ‘Loi Montagne’, there are now two signs to indicate when you enter and leave a zone where winter tyre equipment is required:

What are the penalties for failure to comply with the law?

Failure to comply with Loi Montagne will entail a 4th-class fine of €135 and possible immobilisation of your vehicle.
Some tolerance is granted until November 2022.

More information: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000042434406