Vermont Tire Chain Laws

How Vermont handles chains

Vermont runs a real chain-up law. When the state activates it, chains are mandatory on VT-9 between the Wilmington and Bennington chain-up areas for any vehicle over 26,000 pounds (23 V.S.A. 1006c). Link or cable chains count; studded tires do not. The fine is $1,000, or $2,000 if you impede traffic, doubled for a repeat within three years. Signs and the chain-up areas mark when it is on. Check VT 511 for the live order.

When, where, and what counts

• When required: Live during winter weather when the state activates it. The Secretary of Transportation, the DMV Commissioner, or the Commissioner of Public Safety, or their designees, can order chains on specified state highways (23 V.S.A. 1006c). The one activated corridor today is VT-9. Chain-up signs and the designated chain-up areas tell you when the order is on.
• Where: VT-9 between the Wilmington chain-up area and the Bennington chain-up area, over Hogback and Searsburg Mountain. That is the only designated mandatory chain-up corridor. The statute lets the state add other portions of state highway.
• Applies to: Vehicles over 26,000 pounds GVWR, or over 26,000 pounds GCWR (heavy CMVs). Lighter vehicles are not bound by the order.
• Chains vs traction devices: Link chains and cable chains both count. The statute also allows another device that attaches to the tire, wheel, or vehicle and is designed to augment traction, so an AutoSock-type device may qualify. Studded tires do not satisfy the order. A heavy rig should carry real chains.
• Check the live order: New England 511 at newengland511.org (VTrans 511) for the live Route 9 order, plus the Vermont DMV chain-up law page.
• Fine: $1,000 civil for failing to affix required chains. $2,000 if the failure substantially impedes traffic. Doubled for a repeat within three years. Driver and employer can both be cited.

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