Winter equipment

Snow chains

During the winter period all vehicles wishing to enter Bulgaria must carry at least one pair of snow chains on board. Depending on weather conditions, the competent authorities may impose mandatory use of chains on at least two drive wheels on some road sections, which are signposted. The movement of vehicles with snow chains is only allowed when it is necessary due to the road conditions.

Winter tyres

In the period 15th of November – 1st of March all vehicles driving on the Bulgarian roads have to be equipped with winter tyres or with tyres with tread depth not less than 4 mm. The use of studded tyres is forbidden.

Sanctions

In case of not using proper tyres the fine is 50 BGN (about 26 EUR) and the vehicle could be temporary immobilized until the changes of the tyres. If a vehicle does not have snow chains on board, it will be not allowed to use the road sections to which the respective road sign applies. If a driver has snow chains on board his vehicle but does not fit them in compliance with the relevant road sign, thus endangering other road users, a fine will be imposed.