Chapter 14.72
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS AND HYDROGEN-FUELING STATIONS PERMIT STREAMLINING
Sections:
14.72.030 Checklist and electronic submittal.
14.72.040 Completeness review and correction notice.
14.72.060 Consistency with state law.
14.72.070 Post-approval requirements.
14.72.010 Applicability.
This chapter applies to EVCS and HFS installed on properties where such stations are permitted under applicable zoning, building, and safety regulations. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.015 Definitions.
For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply, consistent with California Government Code Sections 65850.7 and 65850.71:
A. “Electric vehicle charging station” or “EVCS” means a station that supplies electricity for the recharging of electric vehicles.
B. “Hydrogen-fueling station” or “HFS” means a station that dispenses hydrogen fuel for motor vehicles.
C. “Applicant” means any person, firm, corporation, or entity submitting an application for an EVCS or HFS permit.
D. “Ministerial permit” means a permit issued by the city where review is limited to objective compliance with applicable health and safety standards without discretionary judgment.
E. “Qualifying project” means an EVCS or HFS that meets all requirements of this chapter and the city’s adopted checklist, and does not require discretionary approvals. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.020 Ministerial review.
A. The city shall implement a streamlined, ministerial permitting process for EVCS and HFS.
B. Review shall be limited to objective compliance with applicable health, building, electrical, and fire safety standards.
C. Applications meeting the city’s adopted checklist and all applicable standards shall be approved administratively without discretionary review.
D. No discretionary approvals, including design review or variances, shall be required for qualifying projects. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.030 Checklist and electronic submittal.
A. The city shall adopt and maintain a publicly accessible checklist of all requirements for permit applications eligible for streamlined review.
B. The checklist shall be published on the city’s official website.
C. Electronic submittal may be made via a dedicated city email address or other city-approved electronic platform. Electronic signatures are accepted. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.040 Completeness review and correction notice.
A. Upon receipt of an application, the city shall determine whether it is complete.
B. If the application is incomplete, the city shall issue one written correction notice identifying all deficiencies and any additional information required, generally within five business days of receipt.
C. Once deemed complete, the application shall be approved or denied within statutory timelines. Failure to act within those timelines may result in automatic approval as provided by law. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.050 Denial.
The city shall not deny an application unless it makes written findings, based upon substantial evidence, that the installation would have a specific, adverse impact on public health or safety and that no feasible method exists to mitigate or avoid the impact. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.060 Consistency with state law.
This chapter shall be interpreted consistently with California Government Code Sections 65850.7 and 65850.71. If any provision conflicts with state law, state law shall control. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)
14.72.070 Post-approval requirements.
A. Inspections During and After Installation. The permit holder shall comply with all applicable inspections required by the California Building Standards Code, California Electrical Code, California Fire Code, and local ordinances.
B. Final Inspection and Permit Closure. A final inspection shall verify compliance. The permit shall not be considered complete or closed until a passing final inspection has been approved.
C. Corrections Required. If the final inspection identifies deficiencies, the permit holder shall correct all deficiencies to the satisfaction of the city before the permit can be closed. (Ord. 2026-05 § 2, 2026)