New car rule affecting every driveway in the UK started last week

A new motoring law affecting every driveway in the UK came into effect last week, with many drivers likely unaware of the changes. From May 29, drivers no longer have to submit planning permission to install a private electric car charging socket outside of their home.

The axing of red tape will cut down on paperwork, with electric car owners able to install plugs quicker and cheaper than ever before. The move also applies to businesses, with firms no longer required to fill out detailed forms to install a public charger on their land. The move has been backed by electric vehicle experts, who stressed the announcement was a "significant step" in the country’s EV transition.

David Martell, CEO at Andersen EV explained: "The government’s decision to remove the planning permission requirement for EV charger installations is a significant step forward in accelerating the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.

"By eliminating bureaucratic hurdles, homeowners and businesses can now install charging infrastructure more swiftly and cost-effectively.

"This change not only simplifies the installation process but also empowers homeowners to opt for a solution that aligns with their lifestyle and aesthetic requirements."

Data from ZapMap shows there are a whopping 80,998 electric charging points currently active across the UK.

A total of 1,344 were installed over the past month alone as the UK’s expansion continues.

So far, analysis shows that 7,299 charge points have been added to the UK public network in 2025 alone.

However, the new rules could encourage businesses and homeowners to install even more, with a target of 300,000 plugs by the end of the decade.

According to the Department for Transport, electric car owners are already enjoying significant discounts to install chargepoints at home.

Drivers who rent or own a flat can receive up to £350 off the cost of installing a home charger in a major boost.

Lilian Greenwood, the Government’s Future of Roads Minister, praised the new rule, explaining the new terms were a great boost for the EV sector.

Ms Greenwood explained: "We’re cutting down on paperwork to power up the EV revolution so that drivers, businesses and those looking to make the switch will have more chargepoints to power from and less red tape to deal with.

"We continue to make the switch to EVs easier, cheaper and better by investing over £2.3 billion to support drivers and back British carmakers through international trade deals – creating jobs, boosting investment and securing our future as part of our Plan for Change."