California EV charging rights for condos, HOAs and renters
Short answer: No. Under Civil Code §4745, governing-document terms that prohibit or unreasonably restrict installing or using an EV charging station in an owner's designated parking space are void and unenforceable.
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This is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. Read the statute text at the links below.
Condo and HOA owners (Civil Code §4745) [1]
- Governing-document terms that prohibit or unreasonably restrict an EV charging station in an owner's designated space are void.
- If the HOA doesn't deny an application in writing within 60 days, it is deemed approved.
- The owner pays for installation and electricity, must use a licensed contractor, and must carry liability insurance that names the association.
- If an HOA willfully violates the section, it is liable for actual damages and a civil penalty of up to $1,000, and the court awards attorney's fees to the winning plaintiff. SB 770 amended this section effective January 1, 2026.
Renters (Civil Code §1947.6) [2]
- Applies to leases executed, extended or renewed on or after July 1, 2015. The landlord must approve a written request that complies with the section.
- Exemptions: chargers already serve at least 10% of parking spaces; no parking is provided; fewer than 5 spaces; certain rent-controlled units.
- The tenant pays the costs. The landlord may require liability insurance of up to 10× the annual rent, unless the charger is certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory and installed by a licensed electrician.
Multifamily rebates
Data pending: we haven't verified a California utility rebate specifically for condo or apartment charging on an official utility page. For single-family rebates, see the Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Jose pages.
Can my California HOA ban an EV charger?
No. Under Civil Code §4745, governing-document terms that prohibit or unreasonably restrict installing or using an EV charging station in an owner's designated parking space are void and unenforceable.
How long does an HOA have to answer?
If the HOA doesn't deny the application in writing within 60 days, it is deemed approved, unless the delay is reasonably caused by a request for more information (§4745).
Can a landlord refuse a charger in California?
For leases executed, extended or renewed on or after July 1, 2015, the landlord must approve a written request that meets §1947.6. Exemptions include properties where chargers already serve at least 10% of spaces, properties with no parking or fewer than 5 spaces, and certain rent-controlled units.