Massachusetts Statewide Rule

Massachusetts EV Charging Station Building Code Requirements

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Massachusetts (2026)

Key Facts

Code: 780 CMR Stretch/Specialized
Authority: MGL c.25A §6
Applies To: New construction
Minimum: Statewide percentage floor

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Massachusetts General Court

Summary

Massachusetts adopts statewide EV-readiness requirements under the State Building Code (780 CMR) and Stretch Energy Code, mandating that new construction include EV-ready parking spaces in specified percentages.

R404.4 Wiring for electric vehicle ready parking spaces ("EV ready spaces"). EV ready spaces shall be provided in accordance with Table R404.4. The dedicated branch circuit shall be identified as "EV READY" in the service panel or subpanel directory, and the termination location shall be marked as "EV READY". The circuit shall terminate in a NEMA receptacle or 9|Page a Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Standard SAE J1772 or SAE J3400 electrical connector for EVSE servicing Electric Vehicles, located within 6 ft. (1828 mm) of each EV ready space. Conductors and outlets for EVSE shall be sized and installed in accordance with the MA electrical code.

Source: Massachusetts General CourtView official code

Full Breakdown

The Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR) and the Specialized Stretch Energy Code, authorized under MGL c.143 §94 and MGL c.25A §6, require that new commercial and multifamily construction provide a minimum number of EV-ready or EV-installed parking spaces with conduit, panel capacity, and circuit reservations. Municipalities adopting the specialized code must follow these statewide minimums. The Department of Energy Resources publishes percentage requirements that apply uniformly across adopting communities.

Violations & Penalties

Building permits will not be issued or final occupancy granted until EV-ready infrastructure meets code; non-compliance can trigger orders to retrofit electrical service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this apply to single-family homes in Massachusetts?

The Specialized Stretch Code includes EV-ready requirements for new single-family homes in adopting municipalities, generally requiring at least one dedicated 240V circuit ready for charger installation.

Can my city require more EV spaces than the state minimum?

Cities may exceed the statewide floor through local zoning or by adopting the Specialized Code, but cannot fall below the minimums set in 780 CMR for buildings within scope.

Sources

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