New Driveway Regulation in England Could Save Homeowners £1,000
A new regulation in England aims to simplify the process for homeowners installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers. This change could result in significant savings on driving costs, allowing homeowners to potentially save over £1,000 annually. The initiative aligns with the government’s goal to promote environmentally-friendly motoring.
New Driveway Regulation Overview
Effective from last summer, the new rule removes the requirement for most homeowners to obtain “householder planning permission” for a single EV charger installed on their driveways. Homeowners can now mount chargers on a wall or install them on a pedestal without the previous bureaucratic hurdles.
Officials believe this simplification will encourage more individuals to transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric models. By making home charging more accessible, it is estimated that drivers could save up to £1,100 each year compared to traditional fuel costs.
Industry Response
- Lewis Gardiner, Operations Director at Osprey Charging Network, highlighted the positive impact of this change.
- He noted the reduction in delays and costs associated with EV charger installations.
- Gardiner emphasized the collaborative effort between government and industry that brought about this regulation.
Installation Guidelines and Limitations
While the new regulation eases many restrictions, certain guidelines remain in place. Key requirements include:
- Charging units must not exceed 0.2 cubic meters in volume.
- Units should be located at least two meters from public roadways.
Homeowners also need to be aware of property rights that might affect their ability to install charging units. Leaseholders could face restrictions from freeholders, while new-build estates may have clauses limiting exterior changes, including charger installations. Additionally, those sharing driveways might encounter potential disputes with neighbors.
Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles
Currently, there are around 1.75 million fully electric vehicles on UK roads, with demand steadily increasing. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that sales of new electric cars grew by 8% from 2024 to 2025, with 47,000 units sold in that period.
This new driveway regulation is a crucial step toward encouraging sustainable transportation practices and making electric vehicle ownership more practical and affordable for homeowners across England.
