California Department of Transportation - District 2
Please click on a legend symbol above the map to view its definition or go to Chain Control Definitions
NOTE: You can get location and direction of travel information for each chain control location by holding your cursor over a chain control symbol on the map. This feature is only available on the individual county chain control maps which can be accessed from the county link or clicking on the map.

District 2 - Northeastern California Chain Control

Chain Control Legend
Attention: Information on the maps is updated only during regular business hours and during major snow events.
Please check date/time stamp on map.
Metering Traffic - Implemented when necessary to control the number of vehicles that feed into the snow area. This congestion control procedure gives Caltrans a better chance of keeping the freeway open. Vehicle Screening - All vehicles will be checked to make sure they have a full set of tire chains before being allowed to travel into areas where chains will be required. Truck Screening - All semi-trucks will be checked to make sure they have a full set of tire chains before being allowed to travel into areas where chains will be required. No Restrictions - Watch for snow on pavement. Chains are required on single-axle drive vehicles with trailers. (commonly referred to as R1 Modified) Chains are required on all commercial vehicles (trucks or buses). All other vehicles (cars, pick-ups, vans, etc.) must have either snow tread tires or chains on the drive axle. Chains are required on all vehicles except four-wheel drives with snow tread tires on all four wheels and provided that tire traction devices for at least one set of drive wheels are carried in or upon the vehicle. Chains required - ALL VEHICLES- no exceptions. Road Closed. Truck Hold - During major storms when traffic flow is heavy, Caltrans may hold tractor-trailer combinations at specific points below the snow line.

Updated only during winter monthsSun & Shades

  • During the summer months, the maps that provide chain control requirements for the seven northeastern counties in the state of California are not updated.  We will begin continuous map updates again during the winter months.

    Thank you for accessing Caltrans District 2 chain control information; our goal is to provide you with the most accurate and timely traveler information possible.