UK streamlines electric vehicle charging for homes without garages
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The British government is making it easier for people in England to charge electric vehicles at home without a private garage.
Until October 21, installing a conduit, a channel to protect the charging cable, across the sidewalk required a specific urban planning permit. Now, the government has removed this requirement, though residents still need permission from the local authority responsible for the road. This change aims to help the significant number of British households without off-street parking.
Data from RAC, collected by Autocar, indicates over nine million of the 27 million homes in the United Kingdom lack private parking spaces and cannot easily create them. A 2025 survey by EVA England found that 60% of gasoline and diesel car owners without private parking would not consider buying an electric vehicle. While removing the planning permit simplifies installation, residents must still obtain approval from the local council. Exceptions also apply to areas with heritage protections.
Vicky Edmonds of EVA England believes the change is a step towards a fairer transition to electric vehicles, and is now advocating for local authorities and homeowners to facilitate practical access to these installations. The government is also considering further measures to expand residential charging options, including requirements for new and renovated buildings.
