San Benito County, CA Parking Rules: EV Charging (2026)
Key Facts
- Process
- Expedited checklist review
- Submittal
- In person, mail, or electronic
- Energizing
- Requires separate final approval
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county only
Summary
Unincorporated San Benito County runs an expedited permit process for electric vehicle charging stations under a Building Official-adopted checklist.
A permit application that satisfies the information requirements in the county's adopted checklist shall be deemed complete and be promptly processed. Upon confirmation by the Building Official that the permit application and supporting documents meet the requirements of the county's adopted checklist and are consistent with all applicable laws and health and safety standards, the Building Official shall, consistent with Cal. Gov't Code § 65850.7, approve the application and issue all necessary county permits.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2025 S-28: current through Ordinance 1078).
Full Breakdown
San Benito County Code Article XI (Ch. 21.01) sets up an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations in the unincorporated area, implementing Cal. Gov't Code § 65850.7 and AB 1236. A permit application that meets the county's adopted checklist is deemed complete and promptly processed; once the Building Official confirms it meets the checklist and applicable health and safety laws, the county approves the application and issues all necessary permits, though that approval does not itself authorize energizing the charger. Incomplete applications get a written deficiency notice. In-person, mailed, or electronic submittal with electronic signatures is accepted. This applies only outside Hollister and San Juan Bautista, which handle EV charger permits under their own codes.
Violations & Fines
Installing or modifying a covered charging station without an issued county permit, or energizing one before final county approval, is a violation of Article XI enforceable by the Building Official.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a county permit to install an EV charger at home in unincorporated San Benito County?
Can I use my charger as soon as the permit is approved?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Benito County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Benito County to another location·View the California parking rules overview
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