French mountain tourism and winter driving regulations

France has introduced new seasonal regulations in its mountainous regions to manage tourism and enhance safety. In Chamonix, authorities are drafting a decree to ban wild camping by motorhomes and camper vans following resident complaints regarding itinerant tourists. Mayor François-Xavier Laffin indicated that a decree to regulate parking for these vehicles is being prepared and is expected to take effect immediately upon publication. Regarding road safety, the ‘Loi Montagne’ mandates the use of appropriate winter equipment in specific mountainous zones from November 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027. This regulation affects 34 departments across the Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura, and Vosges. Industry groups, such as the Syndicat du Pneu, have emphasized that these winter risks can extend beyond mountain ranges, potentially causing significant traffic disruptions in non-mountainous areas like Île-de-France. Specific enforcement details have emerged for the upcoming season. In the Ain department, the mandate covers the eastern half of the region, requiring drivers to carry snow chains or textile covers for at least two wheels, or to use four winter tires marked with the ‘3PMSF’ symbol. In the Occitanie region, the obligation is localized to specific communes identified by prefects, including 46 in Ariège, 32 in Aude, 46 in Haute-Garonne, and 55 in Hautes-Pyrénées. Newer mandates extend to the Franche-Comté and Lorraine regions. In Franche-Comté, 683 communes across four departments are subject to the requirement. In Lorraine, the mandate applies to 207 communes, primarily in the Vosges and Moselle departments, while Meurthe-et-Moselle and Meuse remain exempt. In Alsace, 278 communes are affected, including 140 in Haut-Rhin and 138 in Bas-Rhin. The regulation applies to light vehicles, utility vehicles, motorhomes, heavy goods vehicles, and buses. Non-compliance can result in a 135 euro fine and vehicle immobilization, although some tolerance has been noted since the law's inception in 2021.