How to Install an EV Charger
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the permitting and zoning requirements for installing Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) within the City of St. Martinville. This document is designed to streamline the process for residential and non-residential applicants.
Quick Access
Questions regarding EV permits can be directed to the Building Department at planningandzoening@stmartinville.gov (link sends e-mail).
1. Permitting & Zoning Process
The City of St. Martinvlle utilizes a structured review process to ensure all EV charging installations meet safety and building standards.
Required Permits
EV charger installations require one of the following permit types:
- Electrical Permit: Required for the wiring and installation of the charging unit. Residential Electrical Permit Fee for EV Charging Stations.pdf
- Commercial Permit: May be required for non-residential installations involving structural modifications or specific mounting requirements. Commercial Plan Review Invoice EV Charging Station.pdf
Application & Review
- Online Submittal: Licensed contractors should apply for permits online via https://stmartinville.gov/contractorpermitApplication/.
- Reviewing Departments: Applications are primarily reviewed by the Building Department. If the project involves significant site changes, the Planning Department may conduct a concurrent zoning review.
- Review Timeline: Reviews are typically completed concurrently to expedite the process. Standard residential electrical permits are often issued quickly.
- Triggers for Additional Review:
- Zoning Review: Triggered for commercial installations that alter parking configurations or impact landscaping. While not formally codified in the Municipal Code, the City typically treats Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging installations as a de facto accessory use by right, simplifying the zoning approval process for standard installations. The Building Department retains authority for final approval.
- Discretionary Review: Triggered if the installation occurs on a site with specific design district requirements or historic preservation status.
2. Application Checklist
Ensure your application includes the following information to avoid delays. While not all of these items are required for residential projects, the following items are generally useful for approving EVSE projects:
- Required Forms: Completed Electrical or Structural permit application forms.
- Required Fees: Permit fees based on the current City of St. Martinvlle fee schedule.
- Technical Specifications: Ideally, include manufacturer data sheets for the EVSE, including charging level (Level 1 or 2), amperage, and voltage.
- Site Plans: A scaled drawing showing the location of the charging station, proximity to the electrical panel, and parking space layout.
- Supporting Materials: Load calculations to ensure the existing electrical service can support the new EVSE load.
- Accessibility: For non-residential projects, plans must demonstrate compliance with ADA and Oregon structural specialty code accessibility requirements.
3. Inspection Steps
Once the permit is issued and the equipment is installed, an inspection is required before the system is energized.
- Request Inspection: Schedule via stmartinvlle.gov/permits or contact the Permits Department 337.394.2230.
- Site Access: Ensure the inspector has clear access to the electrical panel and the EVSE unit.
- Final Approval: The inspector will verify that the installation matches the approved plans and meets local building standards.
4. Additional Resources
- Local Codes: Installations must comply with the Internation Building Codes available at ICC Digital Codes (opens a new site)
Contact Information
City of City of St Martinvlle Permits Department with the form below