Drivers in England could save up to £1,100 annually thanks to a new driveway regulation introduced last year. The Labour government streamlined the process for installing electric vehicle (EV) charging points by removing the need for planning permission.
Previously, homeowners had to apply for householder planning permission before fitting an EV charger. Now, they can install a single wall-mounted or pedestal charger on their driveway without prior approval, as long as it does not exceed 0.2 cubic metres and is placed at least two metres from public roads.
The change aims to encourage more motorists to switch from petrol and diesel vehicles. Lewis Gardiner, Operations Director at Osprey Charging Network, praised the move, saying it will reduce delays and costs while accelerating the rollout of charging hubs.
However, some restrictions remain. Tenants may face obstacles if landlords refuse permission, and residents of newly built estates could be bound by covenants that block external modifications. Communal driveways may also lead to disputes over installation rights.
There are currently around 1.75 million fully electric vehicles in the UK, with demand rising. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), 47,000 new electric cars were registered in 2025, an 8% increase from the previous year.
