Washington, Oregon extend studded tire removal deadline

Transportation officials in Washington and Oregon have extended studded tire removal until April 15.

Potential late season snow prompted the two-week extension, according to a Washington Department of Transportation press release. The deadline for residents to remove the winter tires was last extended in 2012. The normal deadline is March 31.

State law allows officials to push back the deadline if predicted weather could result in dicey traveling conditions; the decision is made with input from meteorologists and road maintenance supervisors.

This spring, forecasters say snow could affect commutes across the two states into April, according to WSDOT.

Oregon generally shares the same studded tire removal deadline, and this year is no different.

Other states may have later removal dates, but Washington law applies to every vehicle here, regardless of whether someone is just visiting.

There are no personal exemptions or waivers beyond April 15, officials said. People are asked to plan ahead as businesses get crowded as the deadline approaches.

If drivers fail to remove their studded tires by the end of April 15, they face a $136 fine. The tires damage pavement every year, costing an estimated $29 million annually in additional wear and tear on state roads, officials said.