This page provides information and guidance regarding Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points. It includes guidance on:
- When planning permission is required; and
- Other considerations such as licences and building regulations.
Do I need planning permission?
The planning rules for installing charge points will depend on whether the dwelling has off-street parking or on-street parking. It will also depend on if the the property benefits from permitted development rights.
To find out about permitted development please visit our dedicated permitted development web page.
The Planning Portal have published some guidance on EV charging points:
Planning Portal - advice on electric vehicle chargers
Off-street parking
You will likely be able to install a home charger under permitted development rights.
As stated above not all properties benefit from permitted development rights. Permitted development rights must be checked prior to any commencement of works. Please visit the permitted development web page for more information.
If the property benefits from permitted development rights please visit the below web page. This page sets out what works can be completed without planning permission.
Permitted development for electric vehicle chargers
On-street parking
Permitted development rights do not extend to on-street parking. In these circumstances you will be required to apply for planning permission.
Licences
Please note if you use on-street parking you should not trail a cable across the pavement. You will need a licence from Cornwall Council to install an EV channel. Information about this process can be found on the apply to install an EV charging channel web page.
Apply to install an EV charging channel
Building Regulations
Building regulation approval is required in all cases.