France: Winter equipment mandatory in several regions from November 1

Under the Loi Montagne, motorists in various mountainous regions of France must use winter equipment from November 1 to March 31. The regulation applies to light vehicles, utility vehicles, motorhomes, heavy goods vehicles, and buses. Drivers must either use four winter tires (or approved four-season tires marked with the 3PMSF symbol) or carry removable anti-slip devices such as snow chains or socks for at least two driving wheels.

In the Alsace region, 278 communes are affected, including 140 in Haut-Rhin and 138 in Bas-Rhin. In Lorraine, 207 communes are subject to the mandate, specifically within the Vosges and Moselle departments, while Meurthe-et-Moselle and Meuse are exempt. The Franche-Comté region sees 683 communes included, primarily in the Vosges and Jura massifs.

Non-compliance can result in a 135 euro fine and vehicle immobilization, though a level of tolerance has been noted since the law's inception in 2021. Specific major roads and motorways, such as the A35, A36, and A4, are generally excluded from these mandatory zones.