New legislation on tyres could affect owners of HGVs including horseboxes and livestock carriers

The Countryside Alliance is encouraging owners of HGVs – including horseboxes and livestock carriers - to check their tyres following new legislation that came into force on 1st February 2021, which states tyres aged over 10 years old are no longer permitted for use on the front steered axles of HGVs, buses, coaches or all single wheels fitted to a minibus (9 to 16 passenger seats).

"If tyres exceed the age limit it could come at considerable expense to vehicle owners with a dangerous fail at the annual test which means it can't be driven away until the fault has been repaired," explained Polly Portwin from the Countryside Alliance. "It would also result in an immediate prohibition notice being issued if inspected at a DVSA enforcement check."

"We are highlighting this change in legislation in order to help ensure that our supporters are fully aware of the updated rules and can make sure their vehicles are compliant," continued Polly.

In addition, the manufacturer's date code must be legible on all tyres on HGVs, trailers over 3,500kg, buses, coaches and minibuses.

We recommend that owners of all relevant vehicles refer to the Explanatory Memorandum for further details.