Bulgaria and Slovenia enforce mandatory winter vehicle equipment regulations

Bulgaria and Slovenia have activated mandatory winter equipment regulations for all vehicles effective November 15, 2026. These regulations require specific tire tread depths and equipment to ensure road safety during the winter season.

Bulgarian tire and equipment rules

In Bulgaria, vehicles must utilize winter tires or tires that maintain a minimum tread depth of 4 mm. These requirements remain in effect from November 15, 2026, until March 1, 2027. Sergey Aleksov, the Deputy Head of the Road Police Department within the General Directorate 'National Police', stated that vehicles must meet these standards according to the Road Traffic Act from November 15 to March 1.

The Bulgarian police are currently conducting inspections of vehicle technical conditions and lighting systems. Officers are also verifying mandatory equipment, which includes first aid kits, warning triangles, fire extinguishers, and reflective vests. Non-compliance with the tire regulations in Bulgaria results in a fine of 25.56 euros, which is equivalent to 50 BGN.

The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior is executing a national "Winter" action campaign throughout the month of November. This campaign includes a specific focus on technical conditions and safe driving between November 21 and November 30, 2026.

Slovenian winter equipment standards

Slovenia has also implemented winter equipment mandates effective from November 15, 2026, through March 15, 2027. Slovenian law provides specific allowances for the use of summer tires under certain conditions. A vehicle may use summer tires if the tires have a minimum tread depth of 3 mm, provided the vehicle carries snow chains in the trunk.

Specific requirements apply to four-wheel-drive vehicles operating in Slovenia. These vehicles must carry snow chains for the permanently engaged axle or for at least one axle in vehicles with a detachable drive. While the fact sheet notes general requirements, some reports indicate a fine of 40 euros for summer tire violations. Additionally, a fine of 500 euros may be applied if summer tires cause a road blockage in Slovenia.

Regional safety and compliance

The implementation of these rules follows varying winter equipment regulations across European countries, which are often based on local climate and specific national laws. The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior and the Bulgarian police are prioritizing technical compliance to prevent accidents during the transition to winter weather.

The inspection process in Bulgaria focuses on ensuring that all mandatory safety items, such as reflective vests and fire extinguishers, are present in the vehicle. The "Winter" campaign serves to increase awareness regarding the necessity of maintaining proper tire tread depth and carrying the required safety equipment to avoid fines and ensure driver safety.

Glossary

• Road Traffic Act — The Road Traffic Act is a piece of legislation that governs road traffic regulations. It includes amendments that abolished the control card and moved points and penalties to a national electronic registry.
• Bulgarian Ministry of Interior — The Bulgarian Ministry of Interior is a government body. It is involved in executing national campaigns and managing resources such as armored personnel carriers.
• BGN — BGN is a unit of currency. It is used in financial transactions and capital calculations.