Snow Zones

We have added a new snow zone on Grabhorn Road, between Farmington and Tile Flat roads. Grabhorn Road has been the site of numerous weather-related traffic crashes and abandoned vehicles. Snow zones are active when lights on snow zone signs are flashing.  Active snow zones are posted to wc-roads.com, TripCheck.com, Facebook and X (Twitter).

175th Avenue, between Scholls Ferry and Rigert roads

Barnes Road, 118th Avenue east to the County line

Cornell Road, Cedar Hills Boulevard east to the County line

Grabhorn Road, between Farmington and Tile Flat roads

Four areas in Washington County are 'snow zones' – where traction devices are required in inclement weather. Signs say, 'When Flashing Chains or Snow Tires Required.' We turn on the flashing lights during periods of inclement weather to alert motorists.

The snow zones are on:

1. 175th Avenue, between Scholls Ferry and Rigert roads
2. Barnes Road, 118th Avenue east to the County line, adjacent to a city of Portland snow zone
3. Cornell Road, Cedar Hills Boulevard east to the County line
4. Grabhorn Road, between Farmington and Tile Flat roads

These areas have high elevations and steep grades. During icy and snowy weather conditions, vehicles without traction devices are more likely to be involved in crashes or have difficulty driving on slick surfaces.

We require traction devices in these areas to improve safety and limit crashes. These devices also help cut down on the number of abandoned vehicles, allowing us to plow and sand roads more quickly.

Traction Devices

What are chains?

Chains are traction devices fitted to vehicles' tires to help provide maximum grip.

What are studded tires?

Studded tires contain studs, made of a rigid material, that provide traction during winter weather conditions. Some versions have retractable studs.

What are "Mountain Snowflake" tires?

Mountain Snowflake tires are all-season tires approved for use in the snow. They have sidewall marks with a mountain snowflake symbol.

What are winter tires?

Winter tires are designed for ice and snow. The tread has bigger gaps to provide traction in inclement weather.

What are tire socks?

"Tire socks" are made of a specially designed fabric that provides traction during winter weather conditions.

Snow zones are identified by signs in accordance with ODOT sign standards.

When snow zones are active, in addition to the flashing lights, we will post information on wc-roads.com, our website, X (Twitter) and Facebook.

Enforcement

Snow zone violations are normally treated as a "secondary offense," meaning citations are issued when law enforcement sees travelers disobeying other traffic laws or driving unsafely. Travelers involved in crashes, or who own abandoned vehicles without traction devices, could also receive citations. The citations carry fines of up to $4,000 for commercial vehicles and up to $500 for all other vehicles, plus towing costs.

Exemptions

Some vehicles are exempt from the traction devices requirement under ORS 815.145.