EV Charging: Redwood City vs San Mateo
How do ev charging rules compare between Redwood City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
San Mateo has fewer restrictions than Redwood City.
Redwood City, CA
San Mateo County
For new construction in unincorporated San Mateo County, the County's local amendments to the California Building and Energy Codes require EV charging infrastructure. Adopted February 25, 2020 and effective for permits, the rules require commercial buildings (excluding office) to install Level 2 EV charging at 6% of parking spaces and Level 1 circuits at 5%. Residents apply for EV charger permits through County Planning and Building.
View full Redwood City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
San Mateo follows CalGreen requirements for EV charging infrastructure in new construction. California AB 1236 mandates streamlined permitting for EV chargers. The city has public charging stations available. Residential charger installation requires a standard electrical permit.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redwood City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Adopted | Feb 25, 2020 (local Title 24 amendments) | - |
| Applies to | New construction in unincorporated County | - |
| Commercial (non-office) Level 2 | 6% of parking spaces | - |
| Commercial (non-office) Level 1 | 5% of parking spaces | - |
| Charger permit | Via County Planning & Building | - |
| New Construction | - | CalGreen EV-ready required |
| Permitting | - | Streamlined per AB 1236 |
| Residential | - | Electrical permit needed |
| Public Stations | - | Available at city facilities |
| Contact | - | Building Division — 650-522-7200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redwood City FAQ
Does unincorporated San Mateo County require EV charging in new buildings?
Yes. Local amendments to the California Building and Energy Codes, adopted February 25, 2020, require EV charging infrastructure in new construction. Commercial buildings other than office uses must install Level 2 charging at 6% of parking spaces and Level 1 circuits at 5%, with credit for DC fast chargers; the rules apply to new ground-up buildings.
Do I need a permit to install an EV charger at my home?
Yes. Unincorporated County residents and businesses apply for an electric-vehicle charging-station permit through the County Department of Planning and Building. The County's Sustainability program offers additional guidance on EV charging.
San Mateo FAQ
Do I need a permit for a home EV charger?
Yes. An electrical permit is required. AB 1236 ensures the process is streamlined and ministerial.
Does new construction need EV charging?
Yes. CalGreen requires EV-capable or EV-ready spaces in new residential and commercial buildings.
Where are public chargers in San Mateo?
Public stations are at city facilities and commercial locations. Use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint for locations.
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