Kenai Peninsula residents must remove studded tires by the end of the month, according to a press release from the Department of Public Safety.

For Alaskans living above the 60 North Latitude line, which includes all portions of the Sterling Highway, studded tires must be removed by May 1. For those living below that line — in Southeast Alaska, the Alaska Peninsula and Kodiak — studs need to be off by this Friday.

DPS said studded tires cause damage on dry pavement. The department estimates damages to roadways from studded tires cost approximately $13.7 million each year.

After the deadline, motorists can be issued citations if they continue to drive with studded tires. DPS also encourages people to check local regulations, because some areas have their own ordinances regarding studded tires.

Reach reporter Camille Botello at camille.botello@peninsulaclarion.com.