Tennessee EV Charging (2026)

Key Facts

EV Registration Fee: $200 annual surcharge
Signage Standard: State MUTCD-conforming required
Enforcement Authority: Local with state framework
Governing Code: Tenn. Code 55-4-116

Full Breakdown

Tenn. Code Ann. Section 55-8-160 and Title 65 provisions govern public EV charging. State law allows parking enforcement against non-EVs occupying charging-only stalls when properly signed. Tennessee imposes an annual electric vehicle registration fee under Tenn. Code 55-4-116 to offset lost gas tax revenue. The Tennessee Valley Authority and state agencies coordinate charging deployment along designated corridors. Municipal governments may install meters and set time limits but must conform to state signage standards for any preferential parking enforcement.

Violations & Penalties

Improperly parking a non-EV in a marked charging stall may result in citations or towing where signage meets state standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tennessee charge extra fees for electric vehicles?

Yes, Tennessee imposes an annual electric vehicle registration surcharge under Tenn. Code 55-4-116 to compensate for foregone motor fuel tax revenue used for highway maintenance.

Can I be ticketed for parking my gas car in an EV charging stall?

Yes, if the stall is marked with state-conforming signage, local enforcement may issue citations or have the vehicle towed under municipal parking authority.

Tennessee EV Charging Station Access and Fees Law