This is general guidance based on standard permitted development rights in England. Rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties with Article 4 directions. Always confirm with your local planning authority before starting work.
Do I Need Planning Permission for an EV Charging Point in South Hams?
Installing an electric vehicle charging point on your property. Wall-mounted and post-mounted chargers have specific permitted development rights under Part 2 of the GPDO.
Planning in South Hams
90%
of planning applications granted
95%
decided within the statutory or agreed time
73%
of householder applications decided within 8 weeks
In the four quarters to 2026 Q1, South Hams decided 1,018 planning applications. 479 of these were householder projects such as extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings, of which 92% were granted.
Planning statistics: MHCLG planning application statistics, the four quarters to 2026 Q1. Conservation area and Article 4 data: planning.data.gov.uk, © Historic England / Crown copyright. Open Government Licence v3.0.
Important: Additional Restrictions May Apply in South Hams
South Hams has 47 conservation areas. These include Ashprington, Aveton Gifford, Baston, Berry Pomeroy, Bigbury, Blackawton. If your property is in a conservation area, some or all permitted development rights may be restricted. For example, you may need planning permission for changes that would normally be permitted, including alterations to the roof, cladding, or extensions visible from a public highway.
Check with South Hams planning department before starting work to confirm whether your property is affected by any special designations.
Permitted Development Rules for an EV Charging Point
Generally permitted under Part 2, Class D of the GPDO. One charging point is permitted per property. Wall-mounted units must not face a highway. The unit must not exceed 0.2 cubic metres in volume.
Conditions
- 1One charging point per property under PD
- 2Wall-mounted units must not be on a wall facing a highway
- 3Must not exceed 0.2 cubic metres in volume
- 4Must not be within 2m of a highway (for post-mounted units in designated areas)
- 5Must not be on a listed building or within the curtilage of a listed building (in designated areas)
Size and Dimension Limits
- Maximum volume: 0.2 cubic metres
- One unit per property under PD
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- Not PD on listed buildings or within the curtilage of a listed building in designated areas
- Post-mounted units in designated areas must not be within 2m of a highway
- A second charger requires planning permission
- Electrical installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician
What About Building Regulations?
Building regulations approval is likely required
The electrical installation must comply with Building Regulations Part P. The work should be carried out by a registered electrician (NICEIC, NAPIT, or equivalent) who can self-certify the installation. The charger must comply with BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and have appropriate circuit protection.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. Even if your project is permitted development, you may still need building regulations approval. Contact South Hams building control or use an approved inspector.
How to Apply in South Hams
If you need planning permission for your ev charging point, you can apply through South Hams's planning department or via the national Planning Portal.
If your project is permitted development and you want written confirmation, you can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) from South Hams. This provides proof that your project does not need planning permission, which can be helpful when selling your property.
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Very low risk. EV chargers are small and unobtrusive. Enforcement is only likely if the unit is on a listed building without consent or is a second unit installed without permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for an ev charging point in South Hams?
Does an ev charging point in South Hams need building regulations?
How do I apply for planning permission in South Hams?
How long does planning permission take in South Hams?
What percentage of planning applications does South Hams approve?
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