Oregon truck chain law
Commercial vehicles over 10,000 lb GVW must carry chains whenever conditions might require them or Snow Zone signs are posted, and must chain up when signs say so. Fine for commercial vehicles: $880 presumptive.
| Type | Must carry chains (dated or standing rule) |
|---|---|
| Carry season / effective dates | No fixed dates on the official pages we checked. ODOT: carry chains "whenever road conditions might require their use or Snow Zone signs are posted." |
| Who must carry chains | All commercial vehicles over 10,000 lb GVW (ODOT). |
| When you must chain up | When signs are posted: vehicles towing or rated over 10,000 lb GVW must use chains, including on the towed unit. Placement depends on axle setup (OAR 734-017-0010). Applies to all Oregon highways. |
| Where | Any Oregon highway where chain signs are posted; conditional closures are frequent on I-5 over the Siskiyou Pass (ODOT). |
| Penalty | Class C traffic violation; for a motor vehicle registered under ORS chapter 826 (apportioned/commercial) it is a specific-fine violation with a presumptive fine of $880 (ORS 815.140). Failing to carry chains where signs require carrying them is a Class C traffic violation (ORS 815.142). |
| Law | ORS 815.140, 815.142; OAR 734-017 |
Official sources
- ODOT: Tips for Commercial Vehicle Drivers
- ODOT Commerce & Compliance: Chains and Traction Tires
- ORS chapter 815 (815.140)
Checked 2026-10-29. Chain controls are set live by the state, so follow posted signs and officers. Not legal advice.
Running the mountains this winter? Estimate fuel tax with the IFTA calculator and see Oregon IFTA rates.