No, Arkansas prohibits studded tires statewide under Ark. Code Ann. § 27-37-603, which classifies them as hazardous roadway equipment. The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) enforces this ban year-round, citing pavement damage risks exceeding $50 million annually in maintenance costs. Local jurisdictions lack authority to override the statute, though ARDOT may grant limited exemptions for emergency vehicles under Ark. Admin. Code 002.00.5-2026.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Arkansas
- Year-Round Prohibition: No vehicle may operate with studded tires at any time, regardless of weather conditions.
- Penalties: Violations incur Class C misdemeanor charges, punishable by fines up to $100 per offense under Ark. Code Ann. § 27-37-604.
- Emergency Exemptions: ARDOT may authorize studded tires for law enforcement, fire, or medical response vehicles during declared snow/ice emergencies, requiring prior written approval.
ARDOT’s 2026 enforcement priorities include automated license plate readers to detect non-compliant vehicles in high-traffic corridors like I-40 and I-30. Out-of-state drivers remain subject to the same restrictions, with no reciprocity agreements permitting studded tire use. Commercial fleets must document tire compliance during annual vehicle inspections conducted by the Arkansas State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division.