Studded tire season ends March 31

PORTLAND — Drivers in Oregon and Washington are required to remove their studded tires by the night of March 31.

If possible, the Oregon Department of Transportation says, earlier is better for taking them off, as they cause extensive damage to roads.

“We think that there’s $8.5 million in damage caused each year to state highways by studded tires,” said Peter Murphy with ODOT. “So, just keep that in mind. Use studded tires if you have to. Take them off when you can.”

ODOT will continue to monitor the roads and the weather forecast for any late-season snow or ice after the end of March, Murphy said.

He encourages people to use other types of traction tires, such as studies snow tires, in case of winter weather after the deadline. Drivers in either state can face fines if they are found to be driving with studded tires after the removal deadline.