Tire chains in Califdrnia

dennych1 wrote:
So even though I have 4wd I might need chains

Yes.
The likely hood depends on where you are going and if the trip can be delayed a few days after a storm.

If you must get to Lake Tahoe while it is snowing there is a great chance chains are required. If near the coast or central valley very unlikely to ever need chains. The interstate passes are usually cleared and melting within a few days.

CA snow is often the heavy wet sloppy stuff that makes any hill difficult. Very different from the crisp dry snow in other areas.