What are the rules around of piste skiing in Italy

The rules for off-piste skiing in Italy have become much stricter since the introduction of Legislative Decree 40/21, which came into effect on January 1, 2022.

 While on-piste regulations are well-known, the new law also formalises rules for off-piste and ski mountaineering.

1. Mandatory Safety Equipment

This is the most significant change. The law now mandates that anyone practising ski mountaineering or freeriding (off-piste skiing) in areas with an avalanche risk must be equipped with specific safety gear. 

• Avalanche Transceiver (ARTVA/ARVA): An electronic device worn on the body that transmits a radio signal to allow a buried victim to be located.

• Avalanche Shovel: Used to dig out a person buried in an avalanche.
   

• Avalanche Probe: A collapsible pole used to pinpoint the exact location of a buried person/

• Failure to carry this equipment can result in fines and the confiscation of your ski pass.

2. Third-Party Liability Insurance

As with on-piste skiing, it is mandatory to have valid third-party liability insurance. 

• Check Your Policy: You must ensure your insurance policy explicitly covers off-piste activities. Many standard ski travel insurance policies have an exclusion for off-piste skiing, especially if you are not with a certified guide or are skiing in an area that is not designated as "within the resort boundaries."

• Consequences of Lacking Insurance: Without valid insurance, you could face fines and your ski pass being confiscated.

•  If you cause an accident, you would be personally liable for any damages, which could be financially devastating

3. Personal Responsibility and Risk

The Italian law places a strong emphasis on personal responsibility.

• At Your Own Risk: The law clarifies that ski resort operators are not responsible for accidents that occur on off-piste routes, even if those routes are served by a ski lift. Off-piste skiing is undertaken entirely at your own risk.

• Guides are Highly Recommended: While not legally required, it is strongly advised to hire a certified mountain guide, especially if you are not an expert and do not have extensive local knowledge. Guides can assess snow conditions, interpret avalanche bulletins, and lead you on safe routes.

• Following Regulations: You must also follow any specific rules laid out by the local ski area, which may include respecting signs, closures, and boundaries.

•  Skiing off-piste in a protected nature reserve or in an area that has been specifically closed is illegal and can lead to significant fines.

4. Alcohol and Drug Use

The Italian law now explicitly bans skiing under the influence of alcohol or drugs, with penalties similar to those for driving under the influence.