No, studded tires are prohibited nationwide under Colombia’s Decreto 1077 de 2015 (Reglamento Único del Sector Transporte), which aligns with UNECE regulations banning metal studs for environmental and road safety reasons. Local enforcement by the Ministerio de Transporte and ANI (Agencia Nacional de Infraestructura) targets non-compliance with fines up to 30 SMLMV ($10,200 COP in 2024). Exceptions for agricultural or industrial vehicles require prior authorization from regional transit authorities, subject to strict weight and speed limitations.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Colombia
- Federal Ban: Decreto 1077/2015 (Art. 2.2.1.1.1) explicitly prohibits studded tires on public roads, citing tire degradation and asphalt damage. Violations trigger administrative sanctions under Ley 769 de 2002 (Código Nacional de Tránsito).
- Regional Exemptions: Departments like Antioquia or Boyacá may permit studded tires for specialized fleets (e.g., mining) but require permiso especial from the Secretaría de Movilidad, valid only during declared “winter emergencies.”
- 2026 Compliance Shift: The Plan Nacional de Desarrollo 2022–2026 mandates phasing out studded tires entirely by 2026, with pilot programs in high-altitude zones (e.g., Bogotá–Tunja corridor) to test alternative winter tires. Non-compliant vehicles face mandatory retreading or replacement.