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Do you need planning permission for EV chargers?

Graham Rowlands, Managing Director at Devitech, gives an overview on whether you need planning permission when installing EV chargers in both commercial and residential settings.

Do you need planning permission for EV chargers? - Devitech

One of the significant hurdles in adopting electric vehicles is the lack of accessible charging infrastructure. This can be challenging for homeowners, renters and business owners, as navigating the rules and regulations can be confusing and complex. Installing an EV charger involves several factors, including whether your business, home or rented property allows you to make alterations to install an EV charger.

Is planning permission needed for commercial EV charger installations?
Whether an EV charger is wall mounted or on its own stand, planning permission is not required for the installation if the EV charger is not installed on a listed building or on a site that’s a scheduled monument; is in a designated off-street parking space; does not exceed 2.3 metres in height; is not located within two metres of a highway; and doesn’t result in more than one EV charger per parking space.

Does this differ for residential EV charger installations?
All of the conditions above apply for residential EV charger installations apart from not having more than one EV charger per parking space. 

If you’re renting a property, you will need to speak to your landlord or property manager about this change, as you’ll need to be able to connect your EV charger to your property’s electrical supply and meter. Most landlords should be open to this, as EV charging capabilities will be a must-have feature in future years for properties to retain value and appeal.

Using grants to reduce costs for EV charger installations
Whether you’re a business, homeowner or renter, there are a range of grants to help reduce installation costs from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). 

See our guides to EV charger grants for businesses or landlords, and check out the Government’s website for details of all EV charger grants available, including options for residential and renter-friendly installations.

It all starts with a simple phone call. We don’t expect our customers to be experts in EV grants. We know there’s so much to take in, so we’re here to help you every step of the way. To start your EV charging journey, contact us.

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