The Department for Transport (DfT) has updated its guidance on cross-pavement solutions for electric vehicle (EV) charging, providing advice to local authorities on developing policies for their safe and effective installation.

Published on 4 November 2026, the updated guidance reflects changes to permitted development rights introduced on 21 October 2026. These changes allow eligible cross-pavement charging solutions to be installed without an individual planning application, subject to certain limitations and conditions.

Cross-pavement solutions enable residents without off-street parking to charge their electric vehicles using their domestic electricity supply, without trailing cables across the pavement. This can provide a more convenient and affordable alternative to public charging infrastructure, while reducing trip hazards for pedestrians.

The guidance covers two main types of solutions: cable channels embedded within the pavement, which temporarily accommodate a charging cable while a vehicle is being charged; and permanent cables installed beneath the pavement, connecting a property's electricity supply to a charging point at the kerbside.

It provides advice on a range of considerations for local authorities, including policy development, permissions, ownership and maintenance arrangements, installation standards, liability and responsibilities.

Local authorities are encouraged to consider the suitability of individual locations, taking account of pavement width, parking availability, existing street infrastructure and the needs of different groups of residents. The guidance also highlights the importance of establishing clear arrangements for ongoing maintenance, insurance and liability, particularly where ownership of a property changes.

Although the new permitted development rights remove the need for planning permission in eligible circumstances, local authorities retain responsibility for deciding whether cross-pavement solutions can be installed on the public highway. They should ensure that proposals meet relevant construction, safety and accessibility standards before granting permission.

The guidance also includes examples of approaches adopted by local authorities, including trials and schemes in Milton Keynes, Brent, Oxfordshire and Nottinghamshire.

The updated guidance responds to a number of topics raised by CIHT's report, Rolling out electric vehicle charging infrastructure: advice for local authorities, published earlier this year. 

Rolling out electric vehicle charging infrastructure highlights the importance of cross-pavement charging in improving access to domestic EV charging for households without off-street parking. However, it also identifies concerns raised by local authorities around liability, pedestrian safety and accessibility, particularly for disabled people.

It notes that residents trailing charging cables across pavements can create trip hazards, especially for people with visual or physical impairments. Cross-pavement solutions offer a way to address this issue, provided they are appropriately designed, installed and maintained.

The DfT's updated guidance provides further information to help local authorities navigate these considerations and develop appropriate local policies.

Further information

Read DfT's updated guidance here

Read Rolling out electric vehicle charging infrastructure: advice for local authorities here