Safe on-street charging
If you have to park your EV on the street to charge it, it must be done safely. You will likely also need planning permission for your EV charger. Download EV Planning Application Guidance.
Refer to your EV’s handbook. If you need an extension lead, it must be suitable for external use. Refer to any instructions for extension use.
Parking your vehicle to charge on the street
When parking your vehicle to charge on the street:
- park on the same side of the road as the charger
- ensure your car is parked at least 2.5 metres away from electrical equipment of different systems, such as lampposts, electric cabinets, or any other charging vehicle
- do not put a cable across a road
- stay within the maximum recommended distance to run a cable of 10 metres
- check for any parking restrictions
- try to park on the road as close as you can to the charger. Ideally, with the charger facing your EV. If you cannot park immediately outside, run the cable along the lower edge of the kerb.
Trailing your cable across a footpath
Always think about public safety before you run a cable from your home to your EV. Charging cables can only cross footpaths if they're in a proper cable protector.
You must consider public safety and existing legislation when using your cable. Any legal liability arising from the placement of the cable or cable protector is your responsibility.
Please speak to your home and car insurers to find out if your policies cover the use of EV charging cables.
Using a cross-pavement solution
One safe way to run a cable from your property to your EV is to use a suitable cable protector. These are often used in public spaces to cover cables or wires.
Your cable protector should:
- cover the full width of the footpath and any grass the cable crosses from the property to the vehicle
- be non-slip and suitable for outdoor use
- be as flat as possible to the pavement and no higher than 23mm
- have contrasting colour markings to make it easy to see
- have sloped, anti-trip sides
- be well-made and a robust design
Do not leave the cable protector out when your EV has finished charging.
You're responsible for using it safely. Make sure you check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Another safe way to run a cable to your EV is to use a cable channel. Read more about applying for a cable channel.