Spring is here, and that means the end of studded tire season in Oregon.
Drivers have until Sunday to remove the winter tires, which are allowed in the state each year from Nov. 1 through March 31. Washington state requires drivers to remove studded tires by the same date.
Oregon Department of Transportation officials encouraged drivers to remove tires before the deadline, especially if they don’t have to drive in the mountains or in other snowy or icy terrain.
State transportation officials also recommended that drivers consider winter alternatives to studded tires that are less damaging to roads, like traction tires and temporary chains. A 2014 state found that studded tires cause about $8.5 million worth of damage to roads each year.
After March 31, drivers using studded tires may face fines of up to $165.
—Jayati Ramakrishnan reports on Oregonians’ access to housing, transportation and mental health care. Reach her at jramakrishnan@oregonian.com.
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