Virginia Tire Chain Laws

How Virginia handles chains

Virginia has no chain mandate. Chains of reasonable proportions are permitted when snow, ice or other conditions tend to make you slide or skid (Va. Code § 46.2-1044). No VDOT sign turns chains on at Fancy Gap or anywhere on I-77 or I-81, despite the mountain reputation. Localities may post snow routes by ordinance and fine you up to $50 if you block traffic there without snow tires or chains (Va. Code § 46.2-1302). Drive for the conditions, slow down, and stop when the grade beats your traction. Check 511 Virginia.

When, where, and what counts

• When required: Never mandated by the state. Chains are optional and legal only when snow, ice or other conditions tend to make you slide or skid. No VDOT sign or order activates a chain requirement, even on the mountain grades. On a snow route a locality posts by ordinance, you can be fined if your vehicle blocks traffic because it lacks snow tires or chains (§ 46.2-1302).
• Where: No state mandate anywhere, including I-77 at Fancy Gap and I-81 through the Blue Ridge, despite their reputation. Localities may post snow emergency routes. Voluntary traction is most useful on those mountain climbs.
• Applies to: All vehicles may run chains for safety; none are required. No CMV or weight threshold applies statewide.
• Chains vs traction devices: Chains of reasonable proportions are permitted (§ 46.2-1044). State law does not name cable chains or AutoSock-type socks. None is required. Studded tires are allowed only October 15 to April 15 and only on vehicles of 10,000 lb gross weight or less. Studs may project no more than 1/16 inch beyond the tread when compressed and may cover no more than 3% of the traction surface.
• Check the live order: 511Virginia (511.vdot.virginia.gov) for road and weather conditions. No state chain-control status exists.
• Fine: None for chains. Chains are optional, so there is no state chain-up penalty. A locality with a snow-route ordinance may fine you for blocking traffic on a posted snow route because your vehicle lacks snow tires or chains, or for parking or driving on highways it has designated. The fine is capped at $50 per offense and can come with or instead of towing and storage charges (Va. Code § 46.2-1302).

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