Electric vehicles: parking requirements.
The bill seeks to advance California's ambitious environmental goals concerning the deployment of zero-emission vehicles, with targets of having 1.5 million by 2025 and 5 million by 2030. It addresses the bureaucratic barriers posed by local parking space requirements that could hinder the installation of charging stations, thereby potentially slowing the adoption of electric vehicles. By standardizing how charging spaces are counted toward parking requirements, the law is expected to enhance the accessibility and availability of electric vehicle charging stations statewide.
Assembly Bill No. 1100, introduced by Kamlager-Dove, addresses the requirements for parking spaces designated for electric vehicle charging. Specifically, it mandates that local jurisdictions must count a parking space served by electric vehicle supply equipment, or one designated as a future electric vehicle charging space, as at least one standard automobile parking space. Furthermore, an accessible parking space equipped with charging facilities must count as at least two standard spaces. This legislative measure aims to facilitate the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure across California.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1100 is largely supportive, particularly among environmental advocates and electric vehicle proponents who recognize the necessity of reducing barriers to charging station deployment. However, there may be concerns from local governments about the loss of regulatory control over municipal parking space requirements. The bill reflects a broader push towards state-level policymaking to ensure the sustainability commitments align with local actions, striking a balance between state environmental objectives and local governance.
Opponents of the bill might argue that consolidating parking space requirements at the state level undermines local autonomy, dismissing the unique planning needs of varied municipalities. While some areas have already implemented similar counting rules, not all local governments are equipped or willing to adapt their zoning laws. The bill includes findings asserting that the issue of electrification and charging access is a statewide concern rather than a purely municipal affair, which may provoke debate regarding state control versus local governance.