Last Updated: August 24 2026
Can I be charged in Ontario for failing to brush snow or ice off my vehicle before driving?
In Ontario, you can be charged if you drive with snow or ice accumulated on your vehicle (or on a vehicle or trailer you are towing) in a way that would pose a danger to other vehicles if the snow or ice falls or slides off; the Highway Traffic Act requires adequate removal before driving, and the fine on conviction is typically $50 to $500 for passenger vehicles and $100 to $1,000 for commercial vehicles, depending on the situation and charge details. If you have a ticket or are facing charges, Olson Craig Legal pairs lawyer & paralegals to review the facts, assess defences, and help you plan next steps in Ontario, call (226) 886-2001 for a free 1/4 hour consultation.
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Is There a Fine For Failing to Brush Snow Off a Vehicle Before Driving?
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.
Note: Please contact Olson Craig Legal by phone at: (226) 886-2001 to discuss any specific questions that you may have.
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.
NOTE: A significant number of online searches featuring “lawyers near me” or “best lawyer in” frequently indicate a need for prompt, proficient legal assistance rather than a particular designation. In Ontario, “licensed paralegals” are governed by the same Law Society that supervises lawyers and have the authority to represent clients in specific litigation cases. Advocacy, legal analysis, and procedural expertise are crucial aspects of this role. Olson Craig Legal provides legal representation within its licensed parameters, focusing on strategic positioning, evidence preparation, and compelling advocacy designed to secure efficient and advantageous outcomes for clients.
