Memphis EV Charging Requirements - City Law
Memphis, Tennessee requires developers, property owners, and contractors to follow city and utility rules when installing electric vehicle (EV) charging in commercial and multiunit facilities. This guide summarizes applicable municipal requirements, who enforces them, permitting and inspection pathways, common compliance issues, and practical steps to install or report noncompliant chargers in Memphis. Where city code text or official program pages specify details, links and citations are provided for verification.[1] For utility programs, incentives, and technical guidance, see the local utility resource noted below.[2]
Scope & Applicable Rules
EV charging in Memphis is governed by a combination of the City of Memphis municipal code provisions (parking, building and zoning), the adopted state building codes and local amendments, and utility requirements from Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW). New construction and major renovations must meet electrical and accessibility standards under the applicable building code adopted by the city and enforced through permit review and inspections.
Site Planning & Zoning Considerations
When planning charger locations in commercial, mixed-use, or multifamily facilities check zoning use allowances, parking stall dimensions, and signage rules in the municipal code and coordinate with Planning and Development Services during site plan review.
- Confirm zoning district allowances before installing chargers.
- Include charger locations in site plan submittals where required.
- Coordinate electrical capacity assessments with the utility for larger installations.
Technical & Building Code Requirements
Installations must comply with the adopted electrical and building codes enforced by the City of Memphis and any local amendments; equipment must meet manufacturer instructions and applicable safety standards. Utility interconnection, metering, and load management requirements are set by MLGW for connections and incentives.[2]
Penalties & Enforcement
The municipal code and enforcement divisions handle violations related to unauthorized installations, improper electrical work, or noncompliant parking/charging signage. Specific penalty amounts for EV charging violations are not specified on the cited municipal ordinance page; refer to the enforcement authority for case-specific outcomes.[1]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or correct work, stop-work orders, permit revocation, and court actions are typical enforcement options; specific procedures are set by the enforcing department and municipal code.[1]
- Enforcer: City of Memphis Code Enforcement and Construction Code Enforcement divisions handle inspections and violations; utility compliance and interconnection issues are enforced by MLGW.[2]
- Appeals and review: specific appeal time limits and boards are not specified on the cited municipal ordinance page; consult the enforcement division for deadlines and procedures.[1]
Applications & Forms
The city requires building and electrical permits for charger installations; however, a dedicated municipal EV-charger permit form is not listed on the cited ordinance page. Permit applications, submittal checklists, and inspection requests are handled through Memphis Construction Code Enforcement or the city's online permitting portal (see Resources). Fees and specific submission requirements are set on the permit application and by the enforcement office; where not shown on the cited page, they are not specified on the cited page.[1]
Installation Steps & Practical Action Items
- Confirm zoning and site plan requirements with Planning before design.
- Obtain electrical and building permits and submit manufacturer specifications.
- Coordinate with MLGW for service upgrades, interconnection, and any incentive applications.[2]
- Schedule inspections with Construction Code Enforcement and retain records of approvals.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to install an EV charger at a commercial or multiunit site?
- Yes. Building and electrical permits are required for charger installations; a dedicated EV charger permit form is not published on the cited municipal ordinance page.[1]
- Who inspects and enforces EV charger installations?
- Construction Code Enforcement and Code Enforcement divisions enforce compliance; MLGW enforces utility interconnection and metering requirements for service connections.[2]
- Are there city fines for noncompliant chargers?
- Specific fine amounts for EV charger violations are not specified on the cited municipal ordinance page; enforcement remedies typically include correction orders and possible fines or court referral.[1]
How-To
- Confirm zoning and obtain site plan approval if required.
- Prepare electrical design and manufacturer specs and apply for building/electrical permits.
- Contact MLGW early to assess service capacity and submit any interconnection requests.
- Complete work per approved permits, schedule inspections, and retain final approvals before activating chargers.
Key Takeaways
- Permits and inspections are required for EV charger installations in Memphis.
- Coordinate early with both city planning/permits and MLGW to avoid delays.
- If enforcement action occurs, follow correction orders and contact the enforcement office for appeal guidance.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Memphis Planning & Development Services
- City of Memphis Department Directory (for Code Enforcement)
- Memphis Light, Gas & Water - EV information
- Tennessee Codes & Building Standards