More and more people are going electric. Not only because it is sustainable, but also because it saves a lot of money. Charging an electric car is therefore now a daily activity for many Dutch people. But what if you don’t have your own driveway and have to park your car on the street? Can you then lay a charging cable across the sidewalk? It seems like a simple solution, but legally and practically it is more complex than you might think. In this blog, we’ll tell you when it is and isn’t allowed. In addition, we look at what solutions there are for a charging cable across the sidewalk and how you can charge safely and sustainably.
Can a charging cable cross the sidewalk?
In principle, it is not permitted to lay a charging cable across the sidewalk. This is because the sidewalk is public space and must remain freely accessible to pedestrians, wheelchair users and others. A loose cable can be a tripping hazard and is therefore prohibited. However, exceptions are possible. Some municipalities offer the possibility to request an exemption for laying a charging cable over the sidewalk. The conditions for such an exemption vary by municipality, but generally the following requirements apply.
- The charging station must be on your own property.
- The public parking lot must be directly adjacent to your lot.
- The charging cable should be no more than 10 meters across the curb and should be laid along the edge of the sidewalk as much as possible.
- A cable mat or tray should be used to minimize tripping hazards.
- After use, the cable and any mat or channel should be removed immediately.
It is important to check with your municipality in advance for specific rules and options. Without an exemption, you risk a fine up to €280. In addition, you may be held liable if someone trips over your cable.
3x a solution to a charging cable across the sidewalk
If you don’t have your own driveway, there are still some solutions for charging your electric car at home.
Cable mat or cable tray
A cable mat is a rubber mat placed over the charging cable to reduce tripping hazards. Some municipalities also accept cable trenches or special sidewalk tiles with a cutout for the cable. These solutions are relatively easy to install and can provide a temporary or permanent solution, depending on municipal policy. So always check before installing anything!
Cable arm
A cable arm is a structure that guides the charging cable above the curb, similar to a car wash box in a car wash. This keeps the sidewalk clear and eliminates the risk of tripping. The ChargeArm is an example of such a system and is allowed in some municipalities.
Underground cable tray
In some municipalities, it is possible to construct an underground cable trench. This involves making a trench in the sidewalk in which the cable lies, covered with a cover. This is a permanent solution but is often more expensive and complex because of the permits and work required.
Tips for safe and legal charging with a charging cable over the curb
To make sure you can safely charge your electric car, we would like to give some more tips:
- Check with your municipality: policies and regulations vary by municipality. Ask about options and conditions prior to laying a charging cable across the sidewalk.
- Use appropriate tools: if authorized, always use a cable mat, tray or arm to ensure safety.
- Limit the length of the cable: keep the cable as short as possible and lay it along the edge of the sidewalk. This way, you will cause as little disruption to passersby as possible.
- Clean up after use: remove the cable and any tools immediately after charging to keep the sidewalk clear.
- Consider a public charging station: if home charging is not possible, you can apply to your municipality for a public charging station in your neighborhood.
Electric car charging with solar panels
Combining an electric car with solar panels is a sustainable and cost-effective choice. By charging your car with self-generated solar energy, you lower your energy costs and reduce your carbon emissions. In addition, by doing so, you increase your self-consumption, optimizing your energy use. There are charging stations available that are specifically designed to take full advantage of solar energy. Consider systems that charge when there is a surplus of solar energy. This maximizes the use of green power and minimizes the load on the power grid. Find out how many solar panels you need for an electric car. So, can a charging cable cross the sidewalk? Yes, but this is not allowed just like that. Hopefully this blog has clarified when it is and is not allowed. With the above information, you will always have a solution for a charging cable across the sidewalk. This is nice if you have an electric car. Good luck with finding the solution that fits your situation.
