Chelsea, MA Parking Rules: EV Charging (2026)

Electric vehicle charging regulation in Suffolk County is driven by the MA Stretch Code and local adoption. 225 CMR 23.00 (Stretch Energy Code) and the Specialized Opt-in Stretch Code (adopted by Boston, Chelsea, and many MA municipalities) require new residential and commercial construction to include EV-ready parking: 100% of spaces must be EV-capable (raceway pre-installed) with 20% installed Level 2 charging and 60% EV-ready (panel capacity reserved). Boston adopted the Specialized Opt-in Code effective July 1, 2023 — all new large buildings and major renovations must meet these requirements. Chelsea adopted the Stretch Code in 2018 and the Opt-in Stretch Code in 2023. Revere and Winthrop have adopted the standard Stretch Code. Residential Level 2 charger installation requires an electrical permit under 527 CMR 12.00 (MA Electrical Code, adopting NEC Article 625) — typically $50-$150 from the local Wiring Inspector. The charger circuit requires a dedicated 40-60 amp 240V breaker with GFCI protection. Condo and HOA installations: MA does not have a dedicated EV access law like California's SB-880, but MGL c. 184, §23C (solar access) is often analogized, and condo boards under MGL c. 183A must act reasonably. Public charging stations must meet ADA requirements and signage under 521 CMR and federal law. Boston offers MassEVIP rebates for residential Level 2 chargers ($700) and Level 2 chargers at multi-unit dwellings.