Residential and commercial EV charging stations (that exceed a simple extension cord from an existing wall outlet) require permits for the electrical work required to connect the station to the electrical grid. This process can involve submitting an application, formal inspections, and compliance with code and standard requirements, all of which can add time and expense to the charging infrastructure development process. Simplifying and modernizing the permitting processes for charging infrastructure installation can allow installers to know exactly what information and documentation is needed to install the infrastructure, and reduce time spent on acquiring permits and conducting inspections for both developers and government. This can make charging infrastructure installation easier, faster, and more affordable.

Possible options states and local governments can take to improve the permitting process include:

• Installation guidelines: providing an outline of key steps, requirements, and calculations for the charging infrastructure installation process can help clarify the process for inexperienced developers (as most residential EV owners would be, as well as many businesses considering adding charging stations). A jurisdiction could develop a series of guides targeted at different audiences, such as homeowners, renters, or commercial installers. One specific area of focus for states or local policymakers could be multi-unit dwellings that serve low- and moderate-income families and communities; guides could provide instructions for owners as well as residents of these buildings.
• Facilitating an online permitting process: online, rather than physical or in person, permitting processes can cut down on time and expense and make understanding the permitting process more accessible to those inexperienced with electrical infrastructure permitting that may be considering investment.
• Classifying some infrastructure installations as minor work: if certain electrical conditions are met, such as location or existing electrical system, a city or state could label charging infrastructure build out as “minor work” that can lower the cost and time needed to secure the permit. This may be most appropriate for residential charging applications.
• Creating flexible inspection requirements: inspections of locations and configurations for EV charging infrastructure are important for ensuring the safety of those systems for owners and users of the charging stations. However, states and local governments could establish guidelines that allow for third-party contractors to conduct inspections on behalf of the jurisdiction, which could speed the process. States could also certify qualified installers with proven records to be subject only to random or selective inspections.

For references and sources for this policy background and these case studies, please see the full report, Toolkit for Advanced Transportation Policies http://www.mjbradley.com/sites/default/files/mjba_transportation_toolkit.pdf