Yes, studded tires are legal in Finland but strictly regulated under national and municipal frameworks. Their use is permitted from November 1 to April 30, with regional variations enforced by local authorities. The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) and municipal police monitor compliance, while winter tire mandates align with EU winter tire directives.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Finland
- Seasonal Restrictions: Mandatory use from November 1 to April 30, with exceptions for southern municipalities where the period may shorten to December 1–March 31, as determined by local traffic authorities.
- Tire Labeling Requirements: Studded tires must display the “M+S” (mud and snow) or “3PMSF” (snowflake) symbol, with stud count limited to 50 per tire for passenger vehicles and 90 for heavy-duty vehicles.
- Speed Limits: Vehicles equipped with studded tires are subject to reduced speed limits (e.g., 100 km/h on highways, 80 km/h on main roads) unless otherwise posted by municipal ordinances.
Local enforcement, including fines for non-compliance, is managed by municipal police forces in coordination with Traficom’s annual winter tire guidelines. The 2026 compliance framework introduces stricter stud wear thresholds, requiring tire replacement if stud protrusion exceeds 1.2 mm.