Spring weather brings studded tire removal deadline

The deadline to remove your studded tires is rapidly approaching as the weather warms.

The Montana deadline is May 31.

But travelers should be aware, states surrounding Montana have earlier deadlines.

For instance, studded tires became illegal last month in Idaho and Washington. Whereas studded tires are permitted year round in Wyoming, while North Dakota’s deadline is May 15 and Canada’s is April 30.

Studded tires must be removed after a certain date because they cause significant damage to non-icy roads.

A report issued by Washington State Department of Transportation showed that on top of pavement damage, studded tires decrease tire-road friction when ice is not present.

On average, states that allow studded tires have extra maintenance costs in excess of $10 million.

Fines in the range of $100 to $200 are imposed on vehicle owners who do not replace their tires before the deadline.

Typically chains are suggested if a driver feels the need for studded tires past the date they are allowed.

There are a number of tire stores in Libby where studded tires can be taken off and replaced for a fee.