Winston-Salem Parking & EV Charging Rules
This guide explains parking and electric vehicle (EV) charging regulations that apply in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for residents, businesses and property managers. It summarizes the city code and the local development rules that affect on-street parking, private parking lots, curbside EV chargers, and permitted charging infrastructure. Where official pages specify fees, fines or permit numbers those are quoted; where details are not shown on the cited official page the text notes that. Use the action steps below to apply for permits, report violations, or appeal enforcement decisions.
Overview of Applicable Rules
Parking rules in Winston-Salem are enforced under the city code and related traffic regulations; land-use controls for EV charging equipment on private property are handled through the local Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and city permitting processes. For the controlling ordinance text see the municipal code and the UDO pages cited below[1][2].
Where Rules Apply
- On-street public parking, residential permit zones, and metered spaces.
- Private lots and garages — subject to local zoning and site plan approvals for changes like charging stations.
- New commercial development and multi-unit housing — EV readiness or dedicated parking for EV charging may be required by the UDO.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is carried out by city parking/traffic officials and the Winston-Salem Police Department, with administrative procedures set out in the city code and municipal regulations. Specific fine amounts and escalation rules are not fully listed on the cited municipal summary pages; where amounts or graduated penalties are not published on the official ordinance page the text notes "not specified on the cited page" and points to the controlling source for further detail[1].
- Monetary fines: amounts not specified on the cited municipal code summary; consult the ordinance text for exact figures. Not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat or continuing offence rules are not specified on the cited summary pages; the city code or traffic ordinance should be consulted for graduated penalties.
- Non-monetary sanctions: tow/seizure of vehicles blocking charging stations, administrative orders to remove unauthorized equipment, or court actions may be authorized by local ordinance.
- Enforcer and complaints: the Transportation or Parking Division and the Winston-Salem Police Department handle parking enforcement and complaints; contact details and complaint procedures are on the city pages cited below[3].
- Appeals and review: appeal routes are administered through the city’s administrative hearing/appeal process described in the municipal code; specific time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited summary pages.
- Defences and discretion: exemptions for permitted loading, emergency stops, authorized permit holders, or temporary variances are possible where the code or permit authorizes them; see the controlling ordinance/permit rules.
Applications & Forms
Permits for permanent curbside or off-street EV chargers, site-plan amendments, or construction permits are handled through the city's Planning and Development or Building Permits office and may require a zoning review under the UDO. The official city pages list permit application portals and contact points; specific form numbers and fees may be on the permit portal or not specified on the summary pages cited here[2].
- Site plan or zoning application: submit to Planning and Development for review; fee and form number not specified on the cited page.
- Building/electrical permit for charger installation: apply through the Building Permits portal; check for licensed electrician requirements.
- Permit fees: amounts not specified on the cited summary pages; see the permit portal for current fee schedules.
How-To
- Check applicable zoning and code requirements for your property in the UDO or municipal code.
- Contact Planning or Building Permits for pre-application guidance and to confirm required forms.
- Obtain electrical and building permits and hire a licensed installer as required by local rules.
- Pay any permit fees and schedule inspections through the city permit portal.
- If you encounter illegal blocking of a charger or suspect unauthorized equipment, report to Parking Enforcement or non-emergency police as indicated on city pages.
FAQ
- Do I need a city permit to install an EV charger at home?
- Generally yes for hardwired chargers; you must check building permit and electrical requirements and any zoning restrictions under the UDO.
- Can the city tow vehicles blocking a public EV charging station?
- Yes, towing or other removal is authorized where the vehicle is illegally parked or obstructing designated charging access, subject to the enforcement rules in the municipal code.
- Where do I report a malfunctioning public charger or improper use?
- Report to Parking Enforcement or the city contact provided on the Transportation/Parking pages; for safety issues also contact the non-emergency police line.
Key Takeaways
- Check zoning and building permit rules before installing EV equipment.
- Use city Parking/Transportation contacts to report illegal blocking or request enforcement.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Winston-Salem Code of Ordinances
- City of Winston-Salem official site - Planning & Development
- City of Winston-Salem Transportation / Parking contacts