Yes, studded tires are legal in Sweden but tightly regulated under the Trafikförordning (1998:1276) and enforced by the Swedish Transport Agency (Trafikverket). Their use is permitted from October 1 to April 15 in most regions, with stricter winter tire mandates in northern counties like Norrbotten and Västerbotten.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Sweden
- Seasonal Restrictions: Studded tires are mandatory for heavy vehicles (e.g., trucks >3.5t) in northern Sweden from October 1–April 15. Light vehicles (≤3.5t) may use them during the same period but face local bans in urban areas like Stockholm and Gothenburg.
- Stud Specifications: Only tires with studs ≤6mm protruding and a density ≤50 studs per 20cm² are compliant. The Swedish Transport Agency (Trafikverket) conducts random inspections, with fines up to SEK 1,500 for violations.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: From January 2026, the EU’s Regulation (EU) 2020/740 will phase out studded tires in favor of alternative winter tires (e.g., friction or studless) in southern Sweden, aligning with environmental directives targeting particle emissions.
Local municipalities (kommuner) may impose additional restrictions during snow-free periods to reduce road damage. Non-compliance risks liability in accident claims under Skadeståndslagen (1972:207).