As of September 16, studded snow tires now permitted for vehicles north of the 60° North Latitude, which includes all communities north of Ninilchik (NOTE: this doesn’t include municipalities that have their own ordinance regarding the use of studded tires, like Anchorage).
Every year, Alaska State Troopers note a spike in motor vehicle accidents as the seasons change and fall leaves give way to early morning frost.
In Alaska, it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle with studded tires on a paved highway or road from May 1st through September 15th, inclusive, north of 60° North Latitude (all communities north of Ninilchik)
Also, it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle with studded tires on a paved highway or road from April 15th through September 30th, inclusive, south of 60° North Latitude (Anchor Point, Homer, Kodiak, and cities and towns in Southeast Alaska), except that at any latitude on a paved portion of the Sterling Highway, a person may not operate a motor vehicle with studded tires from May 1st through September 15th, inclusive.
Troopers have reminded Alaskans that even with studded tires being legal, drivers must still pay attention and be prepared for the initial layers of ice that will soon develop as temperatures drop. They also remind drivers to begin slowing even more ahead of time when approaching intersections and stop lights, as sliding is always possible.
Visit the DOT website for more information.
