When Canadian winters hit, having the right tires can make the difference between a safe commute and a dangerous one. But are winter tires legally required in your province? And even if they’re not, are they worth the investment?

At Boss Tire, we specialize in helping Canadians buy the right tires online — and that starts with knowing when and where winter tires are necessary. In this guide, we break down winter tire requirements province by province and explain why switching to winter tires is a smart move even if it’s not mandatory.

What Are Winter Tires?

Winter tires are designed with special rubber compounds and tread patterns that stay flexible and grippy in cold temperatures, slush, snow, and ice. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF) on the sidewall to ensure your tires meet true winter performance standards.

Where Winter Tires Are Required by Law in Canada

Quebec

• Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15.
• Must have the 3PMSF symbol.
• Fines range from $200 to $300 for non-compliance.
  
  

British Columbia

• Winter tires are required on many highways between October 1 and April 30.
• Look for highway signs indicating mandatory winter tires or chains.
• Not province-wide, but applies to key mountain and rural routes.

Provinces Where Winter Tires Are Not Legally Required (But Highly Recommended)

Ontario

• Not required by law, but strongly advised between October and April.
• Insurance discount available with proof of winter tires.
  
  

Alberta

• No legal mandate, but icy roads make winter tires a must.
• All-season tires harden and lose grip below 7°C.
  
  

Manitoba

• Not required, but Manitoba Public Insurance recommends winter tires.
• Winter Tire Program offers financing for winter tire purchases.
  
  

Saskatchewan

• No legal requirement, but winter tires are advised in snowy or icy conditions.
  
  

Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador

• No laws on winter tires, but slippery Atlantic winters make them essential.
• Some insurers offer rebates or lower premiums.
  
  

Territories (Yukon, NWT, Nunavut)

• No formal requirement, but winter tires are essential for safe driving.
• Remote roads and extreme cold demand reliable traction.

Why Use Winter Tires Even If It’s Not the Law?

• Better traction in snow, slush, and black ice
• Shorter stopping distances in freezing temperatures
• Improved control on hills and curves
• Increased safety for you and others on the road
• May qualify for insurance discounts or financing programs

When Should You Install Winter Tires?

The general rule: Install winter tires when temperatures drop below 7°C (44°F). That’s when all-season tires begin to lose grip and stiffen.

For most Canadians, this means:

• October or early November installation
• Removal by April, depending on weather
  
  

Even if there's no snow yet, early installation helps you beat the rush and stay prepared.