Huntsville, AL Parking Rules: EV Charging (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- 100+ required parking spaces
- Spaces required
- 2, then 1 per 50 more
- Setback
- 50 feet from any structure
- Charger install
- Not required, readiness only
- Adopted
- Ord. No. 24-287, May 2024
Summary
Large parking lots in Huntsville must set aside EV-capable spaces with electrical capacity for future chargers once the site tops 100 required parking spaces, though no charger has to be installed yet.
Where the required number of parking spaces equals 100 or more spaces then two electric vehicle capable spaces shall be identified, and one additional space shall be identified per 50 thereafter. The following standards are applicable:
70.3.1. These locations shall be installed with electrical panel space and load capacity to support a branch circuit and necessary raceways, both underground and/or surface mounted to support electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), which shall meet the electrical and conduit regulations and specifications as established by the governing electrical utility provider ; and
70.3.2. Electric vehicle capable spaces shall be located at a minimum distance of 50 feet from any structure.
The above regulations do not require the installation of an electric charging station; however, it provides for a natural progression and location of appropriate infrastructure as technology advances.
(Ord. No. 24-287, § 1, 5-23-2024)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 30 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Huntsville's Zoning Ordinance (Appendix A, Article 70) requires new developments to build in electric-vehicle capacity once a site's required parking hits 100 spaces: two EV-capable spaces at that threshold, plus one more for every additional 50 spaces. Each space needs electrical panel space, load capacity and raceways sized for EV supply equipment per the utility's specs, and must sit at least 50 feet from any structure. The rule stops short of mandating an actual charging station, it only locks in the electrical infrastructure so a charger can be added later without ripping up the lot.
Violations & Fines
This is a site-design standard enforced through zoning site-plan review: plans missing the required EV-capable spaces won't clear approval, and permits won't issue until the plan adds them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Huntsville require electric car chargers at businesses?
How many EV-ready spaces does a Huntsville development need?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Huntsville
Compare Huntsville to another location·View the Alabama parking rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.