Commercial Vehicle Industry Engagement

We are seeking feedback from the commercial vehicle industry regarding proposed changes to chain-up regulations and fines, which will go into effect October 1, 2018.

Provide feedback on B.C. Chain-up Regulations

What is This Engagement About?

We want to ensure that B.C.’s highway system is safe and reliable for all users.

In recent years, a growing number of extreme weather events have resulted in closures on some of our interior highways, particularly involving commercial vehicles. 

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has heard from the public and industry that more needs to be done to ensure all road users can travel our highways during the winter with confidence, knowing they will arrive safely and on time.

Winter Preparation Enhancements

In April the ministry announced several enhancements to winter maintenance and preparation, which will be implemented this coming winter. Some of these improvements include:

  • Extending winter tire and chain regulations on select highways, including mountain passes and rural routes in high snowfall areas, from Oct. 1 to April 30 (instead of March 31), to account for late season snowfall (effective October 1, 2018)
  • Enhanced commercial vehicle chain-up requirements, including higher fines for commercial vehicles not carrying chains, or not chaining up when required
  • Enhanced specifications for winter maintenance within the new road and bridge maintenance agreements
  • Enhanced road-maintenance contractor monitoring and auditing
  • Investing in additional weather stations and overhead message signs
  • More support for the Winter Driving Safety Alliance through a specific winter driving campaign, to promote safe winter driving behaviour and awareness for all drivers

How Will My Contribution Make a Difference?

The change in chain-up requirements will directly impact commercial vehicle operators, and based on industry feedback, the ministry will recommend final regulations and fines in time for implementation this coming winter.

Details of the Engagement

Date: June 1 – June 22, 2018