Steps to Create Successful EV Parking Spaces
1. Selecting the location
Long, wide parking spots are ideal for EVSEs (electric vehicle charging stations)
The minimum parking spot size must not be compromised by the charging station
Extra space will be needed for ADA accessible parking spots
Locate the spot in a prominent place where it will be of use
To minimize costs, consider locations as near as possible to existing electrical services
Further site evaluations are often done by a hired electrical contractor
2. Accessibility Considerations
The ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) recommends that EVSE hosts follow this chart to determine the ratio of non-ADA accessible spots to accessible spots
Accessible spots are for people using wheelchairs and other physical accommodations
The spots must include an access aisle at least 60” wide as shown in the image above
Specific regulations are still being formed around the needed amount of accessible EVSE parking spots
There are some potential tripping hazards involving EV cords and other components of the station
It is important to work to minimize hazards for passengers as a means to limit liabilities and ensure public safety
3. EV Installation and Mounting
Once the location is selected, the charging station must be installed by the electrical contractor
See installment costs in the introduction for further information
Depending on the site, the station can be mounted either on a wall or on the ground to maximize square footage
Chargers should be installed in the front of the parking spot to minimize the distance between the charger and the vehicle’s port
4. Lighting
Chargers should be placed in areas with adequate lighting to maximize driver safety and limit charging station damage
Depending on the location, lighting upgrades or installations may be necessary
5. Signage and Aesthetic Design
After the parking lines and potential ADA accommodations are met, it is highly recommended to incorporate elements to help draw attention to EVSE location
Signage
The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) sets the standards for federal signage on public and private roadways
The image above indicates a standard symbol for charging stations
Directional signs to the charger are recommended to increase volume
Signs are often located at the spot to identify it as EV only
Local regulations will further dictate signage placement
Design
The color green has become the industry standard for paint designs at charging locations
Numerous stencils and designs are available to use on the spot itself to appeal to users
6. Police Communication
To ensure spaces are only occupied by EVs, the local police should be involved once charging stations are completed
Municipalities can decide how to treat non-EVs parked in EV only parking spaces, but something must be done to discourage this to make sure charging stations are accessible
Parking tickets and/or towing the vehicles are commonly used methods