Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging
Richmond has public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout the community so when you visit a City facility, you can charge your vehicle. EVs are an important component of a more sustainable Richmond, and supporting increased adoption of EVs through convenient access to charging stations is an important action in Richmond's Community Energy and Emissions Plan. EVs result in zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. They are also much lower cost to operate, are fun to drive and offer a range of performance benefits compared to fossil-fuel powered vehicles.
Charging Station Usage Requirements
NEW - City-owned EV charging station fees have changed.
EV charging stations are not parking spots – they are designated for charging vehicles. To promote prompt turnover and increase access, the City has the following usage requirements:
- Only EVs are permitted in charging station spots
- Vehicles must be charged and then moved (cannot be left parked in spot after charging is complete)
- Energy-based fees* apply effective July 24, 2025 as follows:
| Charging Level Fee (while charging) |
Idle Fee (after full charge or stop, with 5-minute grace period) |
|
| Level 2 Charging Station: - $0.2865 per kWh |
- $0.05 per minute (7:00am-11:00pm) |
|
| Level 3 Charging Station: - $0.3479 per kWh |
- $0.40 per minute (24hrs/day) |
Non-electric vehicles parked in EV charging station spots and EV vehicles that are left parked in spots when not plugged in may be fined and/or towed.
EV Charging Station Locations
To see all EV Charging Station locations in Richmond, view the
2025 EV Charging Map
EV Charging Infrastructure Requirements for New Developments
In December 2017, City Council adopted an amendment to the Richmond Zoning Bylaw requiring that all new residential parking spaces feature an energized outlet capable of providing “Level 2” EV charging.
This requirement is explained in this Bulletin:
ENGINEERING-06 - EV Ready Construction Requirements
Resources to Support EV Charging in Residences
To assist developers, designers, property managers, and other interested organization implement EV charging in multifamily buildings and other building types, the City has published the following report with funding support from BC Hydro:
EV Charging Infrastructure in Shared Parking Areas: Resources to Support Implementation & Charging Infrastructure Requirements
To inform local government efforts to support EV charging at residences, the City also published the following guide with funding support from BC Hydro. This guide provides guidance on establishing EV charging infrastructure requirements for new developments, as well as supporting EV charging in existing residences.
Residential EV Charging: A Guide for Local Governments
Where Can I Learn More About EV Charging?
Households and businesses interested in implementing EV charging at home or at work should check out Plug In BC’s Charging Solutions and Incentives.