EV Charging Without a Driveway: What London Homeowners Need to Know About the New Rules

Recent changes to planning rules could make on-street EV charging easier and more affordable for London homeowners who don’t have access to a private driveway.

For many Londoners, switching to an electric vehicle isn’t the biggest obstacle. The real challenge is figuring out how to charge it if you don’t have a driveway.

With much of London’s housing relying on on-street parking, home charging has often felt out of reach. However, recent changes to planning rules could make it easier and more affordable for some homeowners to install a charging solution outside their property.

From 21 October 2026, eligible cross-pavement EV charging installations in England no longer require a separate planning permission application. According to the UK Government, the change could save drivers up to £300 in installation-related costs.

Drivers to save up to £300 when installing EV chargers at home, as government slashes unnecessary red tape

What Are Cross-Pavement EV Charging Solutions?

A cross-pavement charging system allows homeowners to charge an electric vehicle parked on the street using electricity supplied from their home.

Instead of running a charging cable directly across the pavement, a purpose-built channel is installed within the footpath to safely house the cable and reduce potential trip hazards for pedestrians.

Previously, homeowners often faced additional time, paperwork and expenses because planning permission was required before installation could go ahead. The latest rule change removes that particular requirement for qualifying installations, making the process simpler for many households.

In a city like London, where terraced homes and on-street parking are common, this could open up new possibilities for EV owners who previously thought home charging wasn’t an option.

Can Anyone Install One?

Not necessarily.

While planning permission may no longer be required for qualifying installations, other approvals and regulations still apply.

Any cross-pavement channel must be installed by, on behalf of, or with approval from the relevant highway authority. Depending on the location, additional permissions and highway requirements may still be necessary.

This is especially important across London, where many residential areas fall within conservation zones or include listed properties. In these situations, additional restrictions may apply.

Before making any plans, it’s worth checking with your local authority to understand what is permitted in your area and whether your property qualifies.

Could This Help Reduce Charging Costs?

For many EV owners, the biggest benefit of charging at home is access to domestic electricity tariffs, which are often cheaper than relying on public charging networks.

The Government has stated that some drivers could potentially charge at costs equivalent to around 2p per mile, depending on their electricity tariff and vehicle efficiency. Actual running costs will vary, but charging from home can often be a more economical option than regular use of public chargers.

Of course, the overall cost of installation depends on several factors, including:

  • The EV charger itself
  • Electrical upgrades, if required
  • Cable routing requirements
  • Highway or pavement works
  • Property-specific installation considerations

For that reason, every installation should be assessed individually.

What Should Homeowners Do Next?

If you’re considering an electric vehicle but currently park on the street, now is a good time to explore whether a cross-pavement charging solution could work for your property.

The first step is speaking with your local highway authority to understand the rules in your area. It is also advisable to arrange a professional assessment of your property’s electrical supply, charger location and installation requirements.

A qualified EV charging installer can help you determine what is feasible, identify any potential issues and provide guidance on the most suitable solution.

How London EV Chargers Can Help

The recent rule changes are a positive step towards making EV ownership more practical for households without a driveway. However, every property is different, and it’s important to understand the local requirements before proceeding.

At London EV Chargers, we help homeowners across London explore their charging options, assess installation suitability and install reliable EV charging solutions tailored to their needs.

If you’re thinking about installing a home EV charger, get in touch with London EV Chargers for expert advice and a personalised assessment. Understanding your options early can help you make the right decision and avoid unexpected costs later on.