England eases planning rules for cross-pavement EV charging
Qualifying installations can avoid a planning application, but highway authorisation and site restrictions still apply.
New permitted development rules took effect in England on October 21, allowing qualifying domestic EV chargers and pavement-embedded cable channels without a separate planning application. The change is intended to help households without driveways connect a car parked on the street to home electricity. [1] [2]
The new channel right requires installation by a highway authority, on its behalf or with its authorisation. It excludes channels in conservation areas, scheduled monument sites and the grounds of listed buildings. Associated chargers have their own conditions and limits; the change does not give blanket permission for every property. [1]
The Department for Transport estimates savings of up to £300 from removing the planning requirement. Equipment, installation and any required highway or street-works permissions remain separate considerations. Residents should check their council's process before arranging work. [2] [3]
Government guidance also says a cross-pavement installation does not normally give the resident ownership of, or priority over, the parking space outside their home. Local parking restrictions and the suitability of the pavement still matter when assessing an installation. [3]
Sources
- S.I. 2026/1056: planning amendments, commencement and cross-pavement conditionsUK legislation, The National Archives
- Cross-pavement EV charging planning changes (October 21, 2026)Department for Transport
- Cross-pavement solutions: highway permissions, costs and parking considerationsDepartment for Transport and Office for Zero Emission Vehicles