From 15 April, Croatia officially lifts the seasonal obligation for winter equipment on designated roads, marking the end of a rule that has been in force since mid-November.

The regulation, set by the Ministry of the Interior, requires drivers to use winter equipment between 15 November and 15 April on specified sections of public roads. Importantly, this rule applies regardless of weather conditions, meaning drivers must comply even if roads are dry and clear.

What counts as winter equipment

For passenger vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes, drivers have two legal options during the winter period.

The recommended option is the use of four winter tyres, identified by markings such as M+S, M&S or the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.

Alternatively, drivers may use four summer tyres, provided the tread depth is at least four millimetres. However, in this case, snow chains must be carried in the vehicle and be ready for use on the drive wheels if required.

The key rule many drivers overlook

While 15 April marks the end of the mandatory winter equipment period, this does not mean drivers are free from responsibility.

Croatian road safety law defines “winter conditions” as any situation where roads are covered in snow or ice. When such conditions occur, winter equipment becomes mandatory on all roads in the country, regardless of the date.

This means that late-season snowfall, particularly in mountainous regions, can still catch drivers off guard and leave them liable for penalties.

Drivers found without the required winter equipment in such conditions face a fine of €130.

Police also have the authority to order drivers to stop their journey if their vehicle is deemed a safety risk. Failure to comply can result in the vehicle being removed from traffic and temporary confiscation of registration plates.

For companies and business operators, penalties are significantly higher, ranging from €660 to €1,990 if vehicles are allowed on the road without proper equipment.

Although the calendar requirement ends in mid-April, authorities continue to urge caution, particularly when travelling through higher-altitude regions where weather can change rapidly.

Drivers are advised to monitor forecasts and consider keeping winter equipment in their vehicles beyond the official deadline to avoid fines and ensure safety.

Further details on regulations and designated road sections are available via the Croatian Automobile Club.