Yes, in most cases, you do need a permit to install an electric vehicle (EV) charger at your home in New York State. Whether you’re installing a Level 1 or more commonly a Level 2 charger, local building departments typically require an electrical permit, and the work must be performed by a licensed electrician.

Why a Permit Is Required in NY

Installing an EV charger requires:

A dedicated circuit connected directly to your electrical panel
Electrical work that complies with local codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC)
A final inspection to ensure safe installation and code compliance

Permitting protects your home from fire risks, ensures the charger is safely integrated with your electrical system, and may be required to qualify for utility rebates or incentives.

Who Handles the Permit?

Most licensed electricians in New York will:

File the permit with your local building department on your behalf
Schedule the inspection with the municipal authority after the installation is complete
Ensure the charger and wiring meet all safety and zoning requirements

Costs and Charging at Home

Installation Costs: A home EV charger installation in New York can cost between $800 and $2,500, depending on wiring, electrical panel upgrades, and charger location.
Permit Fees: Electrical permit fees vary by county or city and typically range from $50 to $300.
Electric Rates: Most New Yorkers pay a flat rate per kilowatt-hour, but some utilities offer time-of-use (TOU) plans to reduce costs when charging at off-peak hours.

Rebate & Incentive Opportunities

Many areas of New York offer EV charger rebates or incentives, including:

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) programs
Con Edison, National Grid, and other utilities offer rebates for EV charging equipment and installations
Federal tax credits may also cover up to 30% of installation costs

Check with your local utility or visit NYSERDA’s EV page to explore available savings.

Final Answer

Do you need a permit to install an EV charger in NY?
Yes. An electrical permit is generally required, and the installation must be completed by a licensed electrician who will follow state and local building codes. Always confirm with your local building department for the most accurate permitting requirements in your area.

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Amazing company! I found Chestnut electric via a google search for electricians in my area. I went to the web site and filled out a request
service form. Within an hour, a representative called me back to review my required work. I needed a Ring floodlight installed 25ft up the side
of my house and a Sense home electricity monitoring system to my main panel and my solar panel.
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Amazing company! I found Chestnut electric via a google search for electricians in my area. I went to the web site and filled out a request
service form. Within an hour, a representative called me back to review my required work. I needed a Ring floodlight installed 25ft up the side
of my house and a Sense home electricity monitoring system to my main panel and my solar panel.
-1 Albert Dzurka
Amazing company! I found Chestnut electric via a google search for electricians in my area. I went to the web site and filled out a request
service form. Within an hour, a representative called me back to review my required work. I needed a Ring floodlight installed 25ft up the side
of my house and a Sense home electricity monitoring system to my main panel and my solar panel.
-4 Albert Dzurka

Do I need a permit to install an EV charger in NY?