London EV Charging Bylaw Requirements - Ontario

London, Ontario requires developers and builders to plan for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure early in project design to meet municipal planning objectives and support transportation electrification. This guide summarizes where to check zoning and approvals, what permitting and inspections typically apply, enforcement pathways, and practical action steps for residential and commercial new developments in London.

Planning & Zoning Overview

Local zoning controls, parking standards and site plan requirements are the starting point for EV charging provisions. Review the City of London zoning rules and related planning policies to determine whether EV-ready parking, dedicated charging stalls, or conduit-infrastructure are required for your project. See the City of London zoning resources for details and consolidated bylaw text Zoning By-law information^[1].

Design, Technical Standards & Electrical Permits

Technical requirements for EV supply equipment installation are governed by electrical and building safety rules; developers should plan conduit, metering, and electrical capacity during design. City guidance pages list municipal expectations for public charging and private infrastructure; consult local guidance and the Building Division for permit triggers and technical notes City EV charging guidance^[2].

• Include electrical capacity and conduit routes in schematic design.
• Coordinate charger power level (Level 2 vs DC fast) with site electrical capacity.
• Confirm whether site plan control or zoning relief requires specific EV provisions.
• Plan for signage, pavement markings and accessible stalls where required.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for non-compliance with municipal bylaws and site plan conditions is managed by City enforcement and approvals staff. For London, contact By-law Enforcement Services or the applicable planning/building division to report non-compliance or request inspections By-law Enforcement Services^[3]. Specific penalty amounts and schedules for EV-related violations are not always listed on the municipal guidance pages; where the city posts fines or administrative penalties they appear on the enforcing bylaw text or enforcement page.

• Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
• Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: orders to comply, stop-work orders, and court proceedings may be used; specific provisions are in applicable bylaws or site plan agreements.
• Enforcer: City of London By-law Enforcement Services and Planning/Building divisions; use the official complaint/contact pages to request inspection.
• Appeals/review: appeal routes depend on the controlling instrument (e.g., appeal to LPAT/tribunal or internal review where applicable); time limits and procedures are set out in the specific bylaw or approval document and are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

The most common required submissions for EV infrastructure in new developments are:

• Building permit application for electrical work (submit to the City Building Division or follow municipal submission steps).
• Site plan approval application or revisions where EV spaces are a condition of approval.
• Permit fees and application charges: refer to the City of London fee schedules or the specific permit page; fee amounts are not specified on the cited planning guidance pages.

Action steps:

• Confirm zoning and site plan obligations at pre-application review.
• Submit building/electrical permit applications early to coordinate inspection timing.
• Document EV-ready measures (conduit paths, reserved spaces) in drawings and construction notes.

Installation, Inspections & Compliance

After permits are issued, electrical inspections and approvals must be completed before energizing equipment. Verify inspection authority and whether ESA or municipal inspections apply for electrical work.

• Arrange required electrical inspections as part of the building/electrical permit process.
• Keep as-built documentation and test records to demonstrate compliance.
• Obtain any third-party certifications or manufacturer documentation requested by the city or utilities.

FAQ

Do I need EV-ready parking for new residential developments?

Requirements depend on zoning, site plan conditions, and municipal policies; confirm with Planning at pre-application review and check the zoning bylaw text cited above.^[1]

Who inspects EV electrical installations?

Electrical inspections are part of the building/electrical permit process; confirm whether the City or provincial inspection authority applies for your project.^[2]

What happens if a developer fails to install required EV infrastructure?

Enforcement may include orders to comply, fines, and legal action according to the controlling bylaw or approval; specific penalties are set in the bylaw or agreement and are not specified on the general guidance pages.^[3]

How-To

1. During concept design, identify parking counts and potential EV spaces and note conduit and electrical capacity needs.
2. Request a pre-application meeting with City Planning to confirm zoning and site plan EV provisions.
3. Include EV-ready notes and single-line electrical diagrams in permit drawings and apply for building/electrical permits early.
4. Schedule required inspections and keep as-built records to demonstrate compliance and close permits.

Key Takeaways

• Check London zoning and site plan conditions early in design.
• Plan conduit and electrical capacity to avoid costly retrofits.
• Coordinate permits and inspections with City divisions to ensure compliance.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of London - Building permits
• City of London - Zoning By-law
• City of London - By-law Enforcement
• Ontario Building Code (O. Reg. 332/12)

1. [1] City of London - Zoning By-law information
2. [2] City of London - Electric vehicle charging stations guidance
3. [3] City of London - By-law Enforcement Services