Do I Need Permission to Install an EV Charger?
The simple answer to this question is no, not usually.
We are talking domestic EV chargers though, if you were fitting EV chargers for commercial use then there are way more regulations to consider.
But, if you are fitting an EV charger in your home, for use with your own personal EV, then there is no more regulation than fitting a new cooker or electric heating under normal circumstances.
Understanding EV Charger Installation Permissions
As stated before, a domestic EV charger is a pretty hefty piece of electrical equipment, so it’s not something you’d want to be fitting yourself.
For that reason, you need to ensure that the people, or person, fitting it have the correct certifications.
These will usually be something like NICEIC or NAPIT, and all professional electricians should carry these bits of paperwork.
Basically, it’s not something you should be fitting yourself unless you are qualified electrician.
The charger can’t be over 0.2m³ and must be more than 2m from a public road.
If you live in rented accommodation then you will obviously need permission from the homeowner, or management company, before adding any kind of home improvements including an EV charger.
You may also need to seek permission from any community groups or Resident Associations if you wish to install anything in a shared space.
When Planning Permission Is Required for an EV Charger
There may be certain circumstances in which you will need to seek planning permission.
If you live in a Conservation Area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or any other protected space, you will need to check with the local planning authority.
Same applies if the building you live in is protected or listed in anyway.
Not everyone in the UK has the privilege of a drive or private space to park their car, but that doesn’t mean they can’t install an EV Charger.
On-Street Parking chargers are becoming more popular all over the UK, but they do require a full planning application to the local authority.
And, when it comes to anything commercial, even if it’s just for an office car park, things start to get very complicated and you will need to seek permission.
DO NOT install anything across a pavement, this strictly prohibited without permission and is an offence under the Highways Act.
And, as an extra precaution, it’s best to ask your grid provider, or Distribution Network Operator (DNO), to ensure that your home's electrical system can handle the load.
EV Charger Installation Rules for Homeowners
The person doing the installation must be a professional and registered with NAPIT, NICEIC or a similar body – they must be able to self-certify the work under Part P of Building Regulations.
All work must be BS 7671 Wiring Regulations approved.
The charger must be on its own circuit, with relevant circuit breaker and have an easily accessible isolation switch within 2 metres of the charge point.
It’s not essential, but we would always recommend fitting an EV charger in garages or on driveways.
It’s best not to have your charger facing the street or within 2m of a public path
Keep cables tidy and out of the way, you don’t want to be tripping over every time you get out of the car.
Plus, your home will be easier to sell if it doesn’t have wires hanging all over the place.
As we stated before, you or the installer must notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to ensure the grid can handle your EV being charged every night.
At the beginning of 2025 the law changed to specify that all new 7.4kW+ chargers must have smart charging – this is, once again, to ensure the grid is not overwhelmed.
We can’t reiterate enough that you need to check if you whether you live in a conservation area or your building is listed.
After your charger is installed, make sure you receive an electrical installation certificate confirming compliance and keep all your warranties safe.
What Happens If You Install an EV Charger Without Permission?
You get a load of hassle, unnecessary work and possibly a fine!
Firstly, and most importantly, non-compliance with Building Regulations is a criminal offence.
So, you can be taken to court and fined by your local council.
You would be putting your safety in jeopardy.
If an installation isn’t done by a professional you could be at risk of fire, electric shock, or overloading your home's electrical system.
If you don’t have the correct certification for the installation, you may, in fact you will, void your warranties & Insurance.
As well as potentially taking you to court and fining you, local authorities may force you to remove the charger.
On top of that, you may annoy your neighbours!
