Chain Law

Under current state law, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has the authority to close any portion of a state highway to public travel or to prohibit travel by vehicles that are unprepared for the conditions.  CDOT may close the highway when it considers such a closure or restriction of use necessary for the protection and safety of the public.  Highway closures and restrictions occur through cooperation with the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).

The state Transportation Commission has statutory authority to promulgate rules to implement Colorado's chain laws, which apply to all state, federal, and interstate highways.