New Government rules that remove the need for planning permission to install certain cross-pavement electric vehicle charging systems could save households without driveways up to £300.
The changes came into force on October 21 and allow people to run charging cables from their homes to cars parked on the street, using a channel installed beneath the pavement.
What the new rules mean
Previously, drivers could face additional costs when applying for planning permission, but the Government says removing the requirement could save up to £300.
It also means more households could benefit from cheaper home charging, even if they do not have a driveway.
According to the Department for Transport, charging at home could cost as little as 2p per mile, with some drivers potentially saving up to £1,750 on running costs.
Minister welcomes the change
Buses and Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: "We're saving drivers up to £300 off the cost of installing home charging by cutting unnecessary red tape."
He added: "The EV transition is in full swing – sales are up 36% on last year and over 190,000 have saved thousands making the switch in the last year alone."
The Government said almost 100,000 electric cars were sold in September 2026, an increase of 36% compared with the same period last year.
Street parking and further proposals
The changes are aimed at making electric cars more practical for people who rely on street parking.
However, removing planning permission requirements does not mean households can automatically install a charging system without meeting other rules or getting any necessary approvals.
Vicky Edmonds, chief executive of Electric Vehicle Association England, welcomed the move. She said: "This might look like a small planning change, but for someone without a driveway, it could make the difference between being able to afford an electric car and ruling one out altogether."
The Government is also looking at further changes to make EV charging easier for tenants and leaseholders. Two consultations have been launched, including proposals to make it harder for landlords and freeholders to refuse requests to install charging points. There are also plans being considered to require chargers in new and refurbished covered car parks. Both consultations are open until December 16, 2026.
