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H 3455

An Act relative to permitting of electric vehicle charging stations

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dan Cahill

The bill speeds and standardizes permitting for EV charging stations by making them permitted uses in all zones and requiring a 30-day review timeline.

Accompanied a study order, see H5323
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Bill Summary · H 3455

Summary: H.3455 An Act relative to permitting of electric vehicle charging stations

Overview

H.3455 aims to accelerate and simplify the permitting process for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Massachusetts, including those installed in the public right-of-way. The bill requires local governments to adopt streamlined land use regulations within 12 months, classifies EV charging stations as permitted uses in all zoning districts, and directs state agencies to develop a model ordinance to guide local adoption. The goal is to remove procedural barriers and promote broader EV charging infrastructure.

Key Provisions

  • Expedited permitting timeline (local governments)
    Within 12 months after enactment, each local unit of government must adopt a land use ordinance or bylaws that:

    • Create an expedited, streamlined permitting process for EV charging stations with a binding review/approval timeline of no more than 30 days.
    • Classify all levels of EV charging stations as permitted accessory and primary use in all zoning districts.
    • Address parking minimums so a parking space served by an EV charging station counts as at least one standard space; van-accessible spaces count as at least two spaces for minimum parking requirements.
    • Limit the review of permit applications for EV charging installations (including in the public right-of-way) to the building official’s determination of compliance with health and safety requirements, with administrative approval via a building permit or nondiscretionary permit.

  • Model land use ordinance (state guidance)
    The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), within 6 months of enactment and in consultation with stakeholders, must develop and publish a model land use ordinance for local governments to adopt. The model must be posted online with notification to local governments.

  • Updates to the model ordinance
    DOER and MassDOT may periodically publish amendments to reflect increased EV adoption and technological advances. Updates do not require a rulemaking process; amended models must be posted online and local units notified.

Affected Parties

  • Local governments (cities and towns) responsible for land use zoning and permitting.
  • EV charging station developers/operators and property owners seeking to install stations (including in public rights-of-way).
  • Building departments and municipal officials who conduct permitting and health/safety reviews.

Timeline and Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Hearing: May 14, 2025 (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Room A-2)
  • Referred to committee: Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy
  • Reporting date extension: Extended to Wednesday, December 3, 2025
  • Model ordinance development deadline: Within 6 months after enactment
  • Current status: Bill text circulated as House No. 3455; related HD 2896 replaces it; Senate concurrence noted

Impact and Rationale

By standardizing permitting processes and embedding EV charging infrastructure into zoning frameworks, the bill seeks to reduce delays, lower barriers to installation, and support the expansion of charging networks across Massachusetts, including in publicly accessible locations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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