No, studded tires are prohibited statewide in Indiana under Indiana Code 9-20-6-10, which bans metal studs on vehicle tires year-round. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) enforces this restriction to protect road surfaces from accelerated wear. Exceptions do not exist for seasonal use or agricultural vehicles.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Indiana
- Statewide Ban: Indiana Code 9-20-6-10 explicitly prohibits metal-studded tires on all vehicles operating on public roads, with no seasonal exemptions.
- Penalties: Violations result in Class C infractions, punishable by fines up to $500, as outlined in Indiana Code 9-20-6-12.
- Local Enforcement: INDOT and local law enforcement agencies conduct routine inspections, particularly during winter months, to ensure compliance.
Recent legislative proposals in 2024 sought to relax restrictions for commercial fleets, but these measures stalled in committee, leaving the ban intact through at least 2026. INDOT’s 2023 pavement preservation report highlights studded tires as a primary contributor to road surface degradation, reinforcing the state’s stringent enforcement posture. Alternative winter traction devices, such as snow chains or winter-rated tires without studs, remain the only legally compliant options.