Unusual Ski Fines

6th February 2024

Last modified on February 9th, 2024

The ski holiday company, VIP SKI, reveals the international ski rules that could land you with a hefty fine this season.

Just some of the fines discovered include:

·         If you trigger an avalanche during your off-piste session in France, you could be fined up to €15,000 and imprisoned for up to a year.

·         The Mayor of Ischgl Ski Resort in Austria introduced a €2,000 fine for people walking around the resort in their ski boots.

·         Skiers caught in French nature reserves like Plan de Tuèda above Méribel could be fined 135 euros.

·         Skiers caught smoking at Les Gets can be fined since the 2022 smoking ban was introduced in an effort to clean up cigarette butts.

·         In Colorado you can be fined for giving someone else your ski pass. Violators can expect to pay $500 for “Deceptive Use of a Ski Facility”.

·         Fines of €100-€150 can be imposed on those skiing without ski liability insurance in Italy.

·         In Germany a man was fined £200 for skiing on the motorway.

·         The Colorado Ski Safety Act that states you can be fined up to $1,000 if caught on a lift or ski run while under the influence of alcohol.

A full list of skiing fines can be found in the VIP SKI blog.

“We compiled a list of unusual ski fines to help our community avoid unnecessary costs during their holiday,” said the Marketing Manager at VIP SKI, Nicola Hardy.

“Each country and resort may have different restrictions for skiers and snowboarders so it’s important to familiarise yourself with rules and any fines associated with them.

“Following common ski etiquette like sticking to recommended speeds and following trial route guidance should help people avoid most fines and ski safely.

“But the more unusual ones are worth keeping an eye out for.

“A good ski chalet host should also be able to answer any questions you have and help you stay safe on and off the slopes.”