Santa Clara, CA Parking Rules: EV Charging (2026)
Key Facts
- New Construction
- EV-ready wiring required by CALGreen
- Utility Rebates
- Silicon Valley Power residential and commercial programs
- Permit
- Electrical permit required for Level 2 installation
- Renter Rights
- Civil Code 1947.6 protects EV install in rentals
- Contact
- Silicon Valley Power (408) 615-5741
Summary
Santa Clara requires EV-ready wiring in new construction under CALGreen, and Silicon Valley Power offers rebates for residential Level 2 charger installations.
AB 1236, Chiu. Local ordinances: electric vehicle charging stations. ... The bill would require a city, county, or city and county to approve an application for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, as defined, through the issuance of specified permits unless the city or county makes specified written findings based upon substantial evidence in the record that the proposed installation would have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health or safety, and there is no feasible method to satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact.
Full Breakdown
Santa Clara Building Division applies CALGreen Section 4.106.4 requiring EV-ready raceway and capacity in new single-family homes and a percentage of multifamily and non-residential parking. Silicon Valley Power, the city-owned utility, administers EV charging rebates for residential Level 2 installations and commercial ChargePoint hosts, reducing installation costs significantly. Residential Level 2 charger installations require an electrical permit and load calculation to confirm panel capacity. Multi-unit building EV access rights are protected by Civil Code 4745 for condominiums and Civil Code 1947.6 for rentals, preventing HOAs and landlords from unreasonably denying installation. Public charging stations are located at city hall, libraries, and Levi's Stadium lots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to install a home EV charger?
Can my HOA ban me from installing a charger?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Clara
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EV Charging in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle ev charging.