New Ski Laws in Italy and France 2025/26:
What Travellers Must Know This Winter
Italy Introduces Mandatory Helmets for All Skiers
Italy now requires every skier and snowboarder to wear a certified helmet on all regulated pistes. This new law expands an older rule that previously applied only to minors. Resorts must enforce helmet use across downhill skiing, snowboarding, and sledding activities.
Skiers caught without a helmet may receive fines of about €150. Repeat offenders can also face skipass suspension for up to three days.
Italy introduced the rule to reduce injuries during increasingly busy winter seasons. A CE-certified helmet is now essential for anyone skiing in Italy.
France Bans Smoking on Slopes, Lifts, and Queues
France now bans smoking on all ski slopes, lift queues, and mountain transport systems. The rule applies to chairlifts, gondolas, drag lifts, and magic carpets.
Anyone breaking the ban can face a fixed fine of €135. France created this rule to protect public health and reduce environmental waste. Cigarette butts remain a major pollution issue across many French ski resorts.
Fire risk during dry winters also influenced the government’s decision. Skiers can still smoke on outdoor restaurant terraces under regular rules.
What Skiers Should Do Before Their Next Trip
- Pack or rent a CE-certified helmet if skiing anywhere in Italy.
- Expect spot checks from resort staff during busy holiday periods.
- Follow all smoking rules when skiing in France this winter.
- Look for new signs around resorts explaining both laws clearly.
Understanding these rules now will help you avoid unexpected fines later.