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Snow or Ice on Vehicle
Contrary to Section 181.1 of the Highway Traffic Act
Last Updated: June 17 2026
Question: What are the Ontario fines and legal requirements for failing to remove snow and ice from a vehicle before driving on public roads?
Answer: In Ontario, you must adequately clear snow and ice from your vehicle before driving on a highway so the accumulation does not pose a danger to other road users if it falls or slides off; driving with a dangerous accumulation can bring a conviction under Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, s. 181.1, with fines generally from $50 to $500 for passenger vehicles and from $100 to $1,000 for commercial motor vehicles. If you’ve been charged, need help reducing risk, or want guidance for a smooth next step across Ontario, Olson Craig Legal can connect you with Lawyer & Paralegals to review your situation and explain options tailored to your case, call (226) 886-2001 to get started.
What Is the Law About Failing to Remove Snow Off a Vehicle?
Vehicles Must Be Cleared of Ice and Snow So As to Avoid Being Dangerous. The Fine For Failing to Do So Ranges Between $50 and $500 For Passenger Vehicles and Between $100 and $1,000 For Commercial Vehicles.
Understanding the Requirements of Clearing Snow and Ice From Vehicles and Applicable Fines For the Failure to Do So
The law requires the removal of snow and ice from a vehicle prior to operating the vehicle upon public roadways. The law is intended to help ensure safety by minimizing the risk that snow or ice may fall from, or slide off, a vehicle resulting in damage to other vehicles or to other objects as well as to prevent possible injury to persons.
The Law
In 2014, the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, was amended via the Highway Traffic Amendment Act so to section 181.1 for the purpose of imposing a legal obligation to adequately remove snow and ice from a vehicle prior to driving. Specifically, the law states:
Penalty for driving with dangerous accumulation of snow or ice
181.1 (1) No person shall drive a motor vehicle upon a highway if snow or ice has accumulated on the motor vehicle, or on a vehicle or trailer drawn by the motor vehicle, in a manner that would pose a danger to other motor vehicles on the highway if the snow or ice were to fall or slide off.
Penalty
(2) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) is guilty of an offence and on conviction is liable to a fine of not less than $50 and not more than $500.
Penalty, commercial motor vehicles
(3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) while driving a commercial motor vehicle is guilty of an offence and on conviction is liable to a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $1,000.
Potential Penalties
As shown above, the penalties for driving a vehicle without adequately removing snow and ice is between $50 and $500 for matters involving a private vehicle or between $100 to $1,000 for matters involving a commercial vehicle. Additionally, upon conviction a driver may become subjected to increased insurance premiums, among other concerns.
Summary Comment
Drivers must remove snow and ice from vehicles or face fines, among other adversities, upon failure to remove snow and ice from vehicles so to remedy potential danger.
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