EV charging at home across the DC area
What does a home EV charger need? The rules differ at every jurisdiction line. Here is the short answer for each.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.
| Where | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Washington, DC | A Level 2 charger needs a DOB electrical permit. You can't run a cord across a public sidewalk to a car at the curb. |
| Montgomery County, MD | A Level 2 charger or new circuit needs a DPS electrical permit. |
| Prince George's County, MD | A Level 2 charger needs a DPIE electrical permit. |
| Alexandria, VA | EV charging equipment may stand in any yard if it meets the 55 dBA limit. A Level 2 install needs an electrical permit. |
| Arlington County, VA | Level 1 and Level 2 chargers may sit in required yards. Level 3 must stay 8 ft from the street line. A Level 2 install needs an electrical permit. |
| Fairfax County, VA | Level 1 and Level 2 chargers are allowed at houses for residents and guests. A Level 2 install needs an electrical permit. |
Towns and cities inside these counties (for example, Rockville, Gaithersburg, Bowie, Laurel, Herndon, Vienna, and Falls Church) have their own rules.