Do I need a permit to install EV charger? If you need an EV charging station at home, check the requirements with the local building and National Electrical Code departments. If your installation will demand severe alterations to your electrical system or outdoor features, you cannot avoid an installation permit. You cannot make structural or electrical changes without a compliance permit from these departments. This article explains why you need an EV installation permit, how to apply for it, and what happens when you ignore this process.   

Do I Need a permit to install EV charger?

A crucial question emerges as more electric autos enter the market: do I need a permit to install EV charger? It is unavoidable to get an installation permit in many jurisdictions of the US. A permit is all you need to prove your compliance with local building codes and the National Electrical Code. 

Moreover, the installation permit can prove that your EV charger installation project meets the expected safety standards. Below are the situations in which you cannot skip getting an EV charger installation permit:  

• Installing a Level 2 EV Charger – Do I need a permit to install Level 2 EV charger? A Level 2 EV charger uses a 240V outlet that most residences do not have. It generates around twelve to eighty miles of range per hour of charging. A Level 2 charger is more convenient and quicker than the Level 1 charger.  People who commute daily in their EVs need this charging station to charge conveniently at night.
  
  So, do I need a permit to install EV charger of this kind? Since the Level 2 EV charger has higher voltage requirements, most people have to upgrade their electrical circuits to have it. This upgrade project often requires compliance with the local building and electrical codes. You must get a permit to install a Level 2 EV charger at home or rental property.
  
• Electrical Panel Inspections – Another situation requiring an EV charger installation permit arises when an existing electrical system requires professional inspection. It could be that you have to hardwire your EV charger to your electrical panel. An expert technician must check the electrical panel and rule out possible safety hazards.
  
• When Altering Outdoor Structures and Electrical Systems – Perhaps you have to alter your garage, parking area, or another outdoor structure to install your EV charging station. These modifications should meet local safety standards. Inspection will be necessary before getting your EV charger installation permit. 

Do I need a permit to install EV charger in every situation? There are few exceptions to the rule, including: 

• Level 1 EV Charger –This unit requires no complex modification to charge your EV. It is slow when compared to a Level 2 charger and more prone to electric current surges.
• No Need to Upgrade or Alter Structures – If you can use your outdoor structures and electrical panels as they are, getting an installation permit is unnecessary. 

How Can You Apply for an EV Charger Installation Permit? 

Do I need a permit to install EV charger, and how does this work?  You need to do a series of steps to apply for an EV charging station installation permit. 

• Step One – Discover Where to Get the Permit in Your State

Do I need a permit to install EV charger in California? California uses the state government to issue EV charging station installation permits. It has comprehensive and streamlined guides that local authorities use when approving EV charger installation permit applications. 

Do I need a permit to install EV charger in other states? Only the local building and permit departments can impose electrical and building codes and issue permits in certain states. Still, some jurisdictions allow the utility companies to approve and inspect unique projects like a Level 2 charger installation.  Find out the permitting department in your state first. 

• Step Two: Visit the Permitting Department in Person or Online

Do I need a permit to install EV charger? The permitting department in your state handles the EV charger permit application process uniquely. You need to visit its website and check the requirements of the application process.

 If you can handle everything online, then follow the instructions carefully. If your department has not provided the necessary details online, visit the physical office in person. 

• Step Three: Submit an Application Form

Many jurisdictions in the U.S. want you to engage a certified electrician in this application process instead of doing the task personally. Hire this professional in advance because their presence will be necessary during the inspection stage. 

The officials at the station often provide a form to fill out, requiring you to explain the specifications of your EV charger installation project. You must reveal the location of the project, the EV charger type you intend to install, and the required electrical circuit system. Submit your form after filling it out well.

• Step Four: Get Form Approval 

Do I need a permit to install EV charger? The local building department will assess the submitted application form to see if you meet the local building and NEC codes. If you do, they will approve your application and allow you to install the EV charging station. 

• Step Five: Pay Permit Fees

Do I need a permit to install EV charger and what is the cost? Permitting departments charge a certain fee to process an EV charger installation permit application. The price starts from $50 and it can rise depending on the nature of your project.  Pay this fee to start the project. 

• Step Six: Set an Inspection Date

Do I need a permit to install EV charger and does this require an inspection? After installing the EV charging station in your property, you should do the last step. This entails setting a date for state inspectors to come and assess if the EV charger adheres to the local building and electrical codes. 

This is when a hired electrical expert can facilitate this application process. If you involve them in the installation process, they will have all the answers ready for the city inspector.

Getting a permit to install an EV charger ensures safety, code compliance, and long-term peace of mind. By following the required steps and involving a certified electrician, you can complete the process smoothly and avoid future issues. For those new to EV chargers, you can also refer to our step-by-step guide on how to install an electric vehicle charger, which explains the process from setup to final inspection.

Can I Skip an EV Charger Permit?

Do I need a permit to install EV charger? Can I skip permit processing? Some of you wonder if you can skip the application for EV charging station installation. If your project requires this permit, follow the above steps to obtain it. If not, you risk facing the following consequences: 

• Exposure to Safety Hazards – An installation that occurs without the approval of the local building codes and NEC departments can cause severe safety hazards. These unauthorized installations can trigger electrical malfunctions that could lead to a fire. High voltage electrical installations involving Level 2 or Level 3 EV chargers must be flawless to avoid these hazards.  
  
• Affect Property’s Resale Value – Not everyone is sure if they will sell their property in future. Perhaps you have no plans of putting your property on sale now but it does mean you will do it in the future. If you try an unauthorized EV charger installation today, it might affect the resale value of your residence in the future. The lack of an installation permit might cause the property buyer or realtor to see your residence as a liability. This can lead to low priced offers, which can complicate the home selling process. 
  
• Home Insurance Problems – Do I need a permit to install EV charger and does it affect my home owner’s insurance? Most property owners have home insurance covers protecting them from fire, theft, and other situations. Almost all home insurers want their policy holders to comply with the local building codes and electrical structure codes. If the officials find out that you have an unpermitted EV charger installation, they might terminate your home insurance cover. If they do, your property will be susceptible to accidents that the EV charger can trigger. Instead of repeating this expensive project later, try to do it well now. 
  
•  Legal Penalties – The permitting department in your state is responsible for inspecting building projects to ensure they meet the preset safety codes. If these inspectors ever discover you have an illegal EV charger installation, they might penalize you according to the law. Besides facing penalties and paying fines, the law can authorize you to dismantle your EV charging unit. 
  

So, do I need a permit to install EV charger? If you fail to obtain this permit, you could lose everything one day. If the inspector have you repeat the project, you will still follow the steps you want to skip now. 

A permit will be your certification during a future property inspection or home sale that calls for code-compliant installations. It will show all the contractors you involved in the project and hold them responsible for any violations. 

Final Thoughts

May you be you still ask yourself this question: do I need a permit to install EV charger? You must apply for a permit if you intend to install a Level 2 charger. This is mandatory in various states because it usually involves alterations of existing electrical systems and outdoor structures. The permit proves that you have followed all the local building and NEC codes when mounting your new EV charger.