No, studded tires are prohibited nationwide under Dutch road traffic regulations (RVV 1990, Article 5.1). The Netherlands enforces a year-round ban due to road surface damage and environmental concerns, with no seasonal exceptions.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Netherlands
- Permanent prohibition: Article 5.1 of the RVV 1990 explicitly bans studded tires on all public roads, including highways and urban areas.
- Strict enforcement: The Rijkswaterstaat (Dutch Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management) and local police actively monitor compliance, issuing fines up to €500 for violations.
- 2026 compliance shift: From January 2026, the Netherlands will align with EU-wide tire labeling regulations, reinforcing the studded tire ban under the Regeling Voertuigen (Vehicle Regulations Decree).
Non-compliance risks immediate penalties and potential liability in accident investigations. Alternative winter tires (e.g., friction or snow tires without studs) must meet ECE Regulation 117 standards. Exemptions exist only for emergency or agricultural vehicles with special permits.