Title 24 · California Energy Code

What receptacle configurations and connector requirements apply to nonresidential EVSE and DCFC?

Nonresidential EV charging receptacles must be 208/240 V and use one of three NEMA types (6‑20R, 14‑30R, 14‑50R). Chargers must be fitted with **SAE J1772** (≤240 V AC) or **SAE J3400**; if Level‑2 J3400 is supplied from 480 V 3‑phase, at least 20% of connectors must be J1772. Installing a DC fast charger lets you reduce the required EV‑capable parking spaces by five and reduce the required panel load proportionally. All requirements above are from **§ 5.106.5.3.2.1**, **§ 5.106.5.3.2.2**, and **§ 5.106.5.3.2.3**.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires

In plain English: 208/240‑volt EV charging receptacles in nonresidential settings must use one of three NEMA configurations (20 A, 30 A, 50 A) under § 5.106.5.3.2.1. EV chargers must be furnished with SAE J1772 (max 240 V AC) or SAE J3400 connectors, and when Level‑2 SAE J3400 connectors are supplied from 480 V 3‑phase service, at least 20% of connectors must be SAE J1772, per § 5.106.5.3.2.2. Installing a DCFC EVSE allows the owner to reduce the required number of EV‑capable spaces by five per DCFC and reduce the required electrical load proportionally to the service panel/subpanel under § 5.106.5.3.2.3.

The key rule: use only the listed NEMA 6‑20R / 14‑30R / 14‑50R receptacle configurations for 208/240 V receptacles; equip EV chargers with SAE J1772 or SAE J3400; and one DCFC installation can substitute for five EV capable spaces (and their proportionate load) — see § 5.106.5.3.2.1, § 5.106.5.3.2.2, § 5.106.5.3.2.3.

Requirements in detail

1) Receptacle configurations — what receptacles are permitted

  • Required voltage: 208/240 V receptacles for EV charging.
  • Permitted configurations (pick the one that matches circuit ampacity):
    • 20‑ampere: NEMA 6‑20R.
    • 30‑ampere: NEMA 14‑30R.
    • 50‑ampere: NEMA 14‑50R.
      These configurations are specified by § 5.106.5.3.2.1.
Decision dimension Allowed value Typical implication Code Reference
Receptacle voltage 208/240 V Use for Level‑2 charging receptacles § 5.106.5.3.2.1
20 A receptacle NEMA 6‑20R Small Level‑2 / low‑power receptacle option § 5.106.5.3.2.1
30 A receptacle NEMA 14‑30R Common branch‑circuit Level‑2 receptacle § 5.106.5.3.2.1
50 A receptacle NEMA 14‑50R Higher current Level‑2 / larger EVSE § 5.106.5.3.2.1

Note: the code also contains raceway sizing and minimum branch‑circuit guidance for low‑power Level‑2 receptacles elsewhere (see related provisions).

2) Charger connectors — what must be provided on EV chargers

  • Required connector standards: SAE J1772 (maximum output 240 V AC) or SAE J3400, per § 5.106.5.3.2.2.
  • Special condition for Level‑2 SAE J3400 supplied by 480 V 3‑phase: when that supply/connector type is used, at least 20% of EV charger connectors on the site must be SAE J1772 (240 V AC) to ensure compatibility with vehicles that use the J1772 standard. This is explicitly required by § 5.106.5.3.2.2.
Decision dimension Requirement Code Reference
Allowed connector families SAE J1772 (≤240 V AC) or SAE J3400 § 5.106.5.3.2.2
20% J1772 minimum Applies when Level‑2 SAE J3400 is supplied from 480 V 3‑phase § 5.106.5.3.2.2

3) DCFC adjustments — how DC fast chargers change space/load obligations

  • For each DCFC EVSE installed, the code permits reducing the minimum number of required EV‑capable spaces by five. It also permits reducing the proportionate electrical load capacity required at the service panel or subpanel to reflect the DCFC installations. This is stated in § 5.106.5.3.2.3.
Decision dimension Effect per DCFC Code Reference
EV capable spaces required Reduce by 5 spaces per DCFC § 5.106.5.3.2.3
Electrical load requirement Reduce proportionally to reflect fewer EV‑capable spaces § 5.106.5.3.2.3

Important: multi‑connector EVSEs (equipment with multiple vehicle connectors that can charge multiple EVs simultaneously) are permitted provided the EVSE’s electrical capacity equals the accumulated required capacity of the spaces it replaces — see the EVCS section and associated tables for how required kVA is allocated.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The general receptacle and connector rules above apply to nonresidential EVCS. There are feasibility exceptions for existing buildings and special parking situations (e.g., remote parking, no utility power) under other sections — see Section 5.106.5.4 (exceptions for additions/alterations) for circumstances where local enforcing agency may waive or modify requirements.
  • When Level‑2 SAE J3400 is used with 480 V 3‑phase supply, the 20% J1772 minimum is a site‑level requirement (you must ensure the percentage across connectors on the site). § 5.106.5.3.2.2 governs that case.
  • Two low‑power Level‑2 charging receptacles (as defined elsewhere) may be used to reduce the minimum number of EV capable spaces by one; and raceway/conductor sizing rules apply to allow future upgrade to a 208/240 V, 40‑amp branch circuit — see § 5.106.5.3.2.4 and § 5.106.5.3.2.4.1.

If you need the code language for a specific exception (for example, hotels/motels or multifamily special provisions), those appear in adjacent sections of the code — cite the exact section and I will extract it for your project.

Common mistakes

  • Specifying a receptacle other than the three listed NEMA configurations (6‑20R, 14‑30R, 14‑50R). The code requires those exact configurations for 208/240 V receptacles (§ 5.106.5.3.2.1).
  • Forgetting the 20% J1772 minimum when installing Level‑2 SAE J3400 equipment on a 480 V 3‑phase service — this is a site‑level percentage requirement from § 5.106.5.3.2.2.
  • Assuming a single DCFC replaces only one EV capable space — the code allows a reduction of five spaces per DCFC; treating a DCFC as a one‑for‑one replacement will undercount permitted substitutions (§ 5.106.5.3.2.3).
  • Installing multi‑connector EVSE without sizing the service/subpanel to supply the accumulative load required by the number of spaces it replaces — multi‑connector allowance requires accumulative electrical capacity equivalence (see EVCS multi‑connector allowance).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Project: a nonresidential lot with 120 parking spaces.

  1. From Table 5.106.5.3.1 (example table in the code), a lot of 101–150 parking spaces requires 25 EV capable spaces and 6 required EVCS (this example table is shown in the code text). If you install one DCFC EVSE, you are allowed to reduce the minimum EV capable spaces by 5:

    • Required EV capable spaces before DCFC: 25 (for 101–150 spaces) — see table in the code.
    • After installing one DCFC: 25 − 5 = 20 EV capable spaces required. Electrical load capacity required at the service panel/subpanel is reduced proportionally to reflect the five fewer EV capable spaces per § 5.106.5.3.2.3.

  2. Connector choices: if the DCFC installation is supplemented by Level‑2 EV chargers, ensure each Level‑2 charger uses SAE J1772 or SAE J3400. If you choose SAE J3400 Level‑2 chargers supplied from 480 V 3‑phase, ensure at least 20% of connectors across your site are SAE J1772 (240 V AC) as required by § 5.106.5.3.2.2.

  3. Receptacles for any low‑power Level‑2 receptacles provided must be one of NEMA 6‑20R, 14‑30R, 14‑50R, per § 5.106.5.3.2.1. If you install low‑power Level‑2 receptacles intended to be upgraded later, size raceway/conductors to allow a 208/240 V, 40‑amp branch circuit per the raceway guidance.

Related provisions (quick references)

  • § 5.106.5.3.2.1 — Receptacle configurations (NEMA 6‑20R, 14‑30R, 14‑50R).
  • § 5.106.5.3.2.2 — EV charger connectors (SAE J1772 or SAE J3400; 20% J1772 minimum for 480 V 3‑phase J3400 installations).
  • § 5.106.5.3.2.3 — DCFC adjustments (reduce required EV capable spaces by five per DCFC; proportional load reduction).
  • § 5.106.5.3.2.4 and § 5.106.5.3.2.4.1 — Two low‑power Level‑2 receptacles → reduce EV capable spaces by one; raceway capacity and 40 A branch‑circuit sizing.
  • § 5.106.5.3.3 — Use of Automatic Load Management Systems (ALMS) and minimum delivered amperage requirements.
  • § 5.106.5.3.6 — Power allocation method (alternative method and kVA tables).
  • § 5.106.5.4 — Exceptions and feasibility for additions/alterations (utility or site limitations).

If you want, I can extract the exact tables (e.g., Table 5.106.5.3.1 or the power allocation tables) into a spreadsheet or walk through how to size the service panel reduction when one or more DCFCs are added. The text used above is taken directly from the cited code sections: § 5.106.5.3.2.1, § 5.106.5.3.2.2, and § 5.106.5.3.2.3.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • § 5.106.5.3.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    5.106.5.3.2.1 Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:

    1. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R
    2. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R
    3. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R

    5.106.5.3.2.2 EV charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC or SAE J3400 connectors.

    When using level 2 SAE J3400 SAE connectors, supplied by a 480 V 3-phase service, at least 20 percent of the EV charger connectors shall be SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC.

    5.106.5.3.2.3 The installation of each DCFC EVSE shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces without EVSE or EVCS with Level 2 EVSE by five, and reduce proportionally the required electrical load capacity to the service panel or subpanel.

    5.106.5.3.2.4 The installation of two low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces without EVSE in Table 5.106.5.3.1 by one.

    5.106.5.3.2.4.1 Raceway capacity requirements. To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such receptacles shall be sized to allow the installation of a dedicated 208/240-volt 40-ampere branch circuit. Where no raceway is used, the conductors shall be sized to accommodate a 208/240-volt 40-ampere receptacle.

    5.106.5.3.3 Use of automatic load management systems (ALMS). ALMS shall be permitted for EVCS. When ALMS is installed, the required electrical load capacity specified in Section 5.106.5.3.1 for each EVCS may be reduced when serviced by an EVSE controlled by an ALMS. Each EVSE controlled by an ALMS shall deliver a minimum 30 amperes to an EV when charging one vehicle and shall deliver a minimum 3.3 kW while simultaneously charging multiple EVs.

    5.106.5.3.4 Accessible electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) . When EVSE is installed, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, Section 11B-228.3.

    5.106.5.3.5 Electric vehicle charging station signage. Electric vehicle charging stations shall be identified by signage or pavement markings in compliance with Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s).

    5.106.5.3.6 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method. The power allocation method may be used as an alternative to the requirements in Section 5.106.5.3.1, Section 5.106.5.3.2 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1. Use Table 5.106.5.3.6 to determine the total power in kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces.

  • § 5-5 High relevance — show source text

    Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
    3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-5

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS). EV capable spaces shall be provided with electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) to create EVCS in the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.3.1. The EVCS required by Table 5.106.5.3.1 shall be provided with Level 2 EVSE or DCFC as permitted in Section 5.106.5.3.2.3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided. One EV charger with multiple connectors capable of charging multiple EVs simultaneously shall be permitted if the electrical load capacity required by Section 5.106.5.3.1 for each EV capable space is accumulatively supplied to the EV charger.

    5.106.5.3.2.1 Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:

    1. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R
    2. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R
    3. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R

    5.106.5.3.2.2 EV charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC or SAE J3400 connectors.

    When using level 2 SAE J3400 SAE connectors, supplied by a 480 V 3-phase service, at least 20 percent of the EV charger connectors shall be SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC.

    5.106.5.3.2.3 The installation of each DCFC EVSE shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces without EVSE or EVCS with Level 2 EVSE by five, and reduce proportionally the required electrical load capacity to the service panel or subpanel.

    5.106.5.3.2.4 The installation of two low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces without EVSE in Table 5.106.5.3.1 by one.

  • § 5.106.5.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    5.106.5.3.6.1 Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:

    1. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R.
    2. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R.
    3. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R.

    5.106.5.3.6.2 EV Charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC or SAE J3400 connectors. When using level 2 SAE J3400 connectors, supplied by a 480 V 3-phase service, at least 20 percent of the EV charger connectors shall be SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC.

    5.106.5.3.6.3 Raceway capacity requirements. To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such receptacles shall be sized to allow the installation of a dedicated 208/240-volt 40-ampere branch circuit. Where no raceway is used, the conductors shall be sized to accommodate a 208/240-volt 40-ampere receptacle.

  • § 6-20 High relevance — show source text
    1. Where the total number of dwelling units exceeds the number of unassigned parking spaces, all unassigned parking spaces shall be provided with one low power Level 2 EV charging receptacle. Exception: Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including but not limited to, automated mechanical-access open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code ; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging. c. Multifamily parking facilities with assigned and unassigned parking. Where multifamily buildings are provided with both assigned and unassigned parking spaces equal to or greater than the number of dwelling units, at least one low power Level 2 EV charging receptacle shall be provided for each dwelling unit at either the assigned or unassigned parking space, but not both. d. Receptacle power source. EV charging receptacles in multifamily parking facilities at assigned parking spaces shall be provided with a dedicated branch circuit connected to the dwelling unit’s electrical panel, unless determined as infeasible by the project builder or designer and subject to concurrence of the local enforcing agency. Exception: Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including but not limited to, automated mechanical-access open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code ; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging. e. Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:
    2. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R
    3. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R
    4. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    1. EV ready parking spaces with EV chargers. a. Multifamily parking facilities with unassigned or common use parking. In addition to the low power Level 2 EV charging receptacle requirements of Section 4.106.4.2.2 (1), twenty-five (25) percent of unassigned or common use parking spaces not already provided with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles, pursuant to Section 4.106.4.2.2 (1), shall be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers and shall be made available for use by all residents or guests. b. Ev charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with J1772 or J3400 connectors. c. An automatic load management system (ALMS) may be used to reduce the maximum required electrical capacity to each space served by the ALMS. The electrical system and any on-site distribution transformers shall have sufficient capacity to deliver at least 3.3 kW simultaneously to each EV charging station (EVCS) served by the ALMS. The branch circuit shall have a minimum capacity of 40 amperes, and installed EV chargers shall have a capacity of not less than 30 amperes.

    4.106.4.2.2.1 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS). Electric vehicle charging stations required by Section 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2, with EV chargers installed shall comply with Section 4.106.4.2.2.1.1.

  • § 5.106.5.6.1 High relevance — show source text

    proposed location of the EV capable space and into a suitable listed cabinet, box, enclosure or equivalent. A common raceway may be used to serve multiple EV capable spaces. 2. A service panel or subpanel(s) shall be provided with panel space and electrical load capacity for a dedicated 208/240 volt, 40-ampere minimum branch circuit for each EV capable space, with delivery of 30-ampere minimum to an installed EVSE at each EVCS.

    1. The electrical system and any on-site distribution transformers shall have sufficient capacity to supply full rated amperage at each EV capable space.
    2. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the reserved overcurrent protective device space(s) as “EV CAPABLE.” The raceway termination location shall be permanently and visibly marked as “EV CAPABLE.”
    TABLE 5.106.5.6.1 Col2 Col3
    TOTAL NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES NUMBER OF REQUIRED EV CAPABLE SPACES NUMBER OF REQUIRED EVCS2
    0–9 0 0
    10–25 4 1
    26–50 8 2
    51–75 13 3
    76–100 17 4
    101–150 25 6
    151–200 35 9
    201 and over 20 percent of total1 25 percent of EV capable spaces1
    1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.    		 1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.    		 1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
    2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.

    5.106.5.6.2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS). EV capable spaces shall be provided with EVSE to create EVCS in the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 and shall comply with Section 5.106.5.6.2. EVCS shall be serviced by Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) EVSE, or with EVSE in any combination of Level 2 and DCFC. Accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 11B .

    5.106.5.6.2.1 Reduced number of EV capable spaces. The installation of each DCFC EVSE shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 by five and reduce proportionally the required electrical load capacity to the service panel or subpanel.

    5.106.5.6.2.2 Multiple connectors. EVSE with multiple vehicle connectors capable of charging multiple EVs simultaneously shall be permitted if the electrical load capacity required by Section 5.106.5.6.1 for each EV capable space is accumulatively supplied to the EVSE.

  • § 106.5.3.4 High relevance — show source text

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    TABLE A5.106.5.3.4—TIER 2 EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4
    TOTAL NUMBER OF
    ACTUAL PARKING
    SPACES    		 MINIMUM TOTAL kVA
    @ 6.6 kVA    		 OTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,
    4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC    		 OFFICE AND RETAIL
    TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
    IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,
    4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
    LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC
    1–9 19.8 19.8 19.8
    10–25 52.8 52.8 52.8
    26–50 112.2 112.2 112.2
    51–75 184.8 184.8 184.8
    76–100 264.0 264 264
    101–150 376.2 376.2 376.2
    151–200 521.4 521.4 521.4
    201 and over 45 percent of
    actual parking spaces× 6.6    		 Total required kVA = P× .45× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility    		 Total required kVA = P× .45× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility
    1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.    		 1.
  • § 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Electric vehicle charging stations serving public accommodations, public housing, motels, and hotels shall not be required to comply with this section. See California Building Code, Chapter 11B, for applicable requirements.

    4.106.4.2.2.1.1 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) spaces with EV chargers installed; dimensions and loca- tion. EVCS spaces shall be designed to comply with the following:

    1. The minimum length of each EVCS space shall be 18 feet (5486 mm).
    2. The minimum width of each EVCS space shall be 9 feet (2743 mm).
    3. One in every 25 EVCS spaces, but not less than one, shall also have an 8-foot (2438 mm) wide minimum aisle. A 5-foot (1524 mm) wide minimum aisle shall be permitted provided the minimum width of the EVCS space is 12 feet (3658 mm). Surface slope for this EVCS space and the aisle shall not exceed 1 unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2.083 percent slope) in any direction. These EVCS spaces shall also comply with at least one of the following: a. The EVCS space shall be located adjacent to an accessible parking space meeting the requirements of the California Building Code, Chapter 11A, to allow use of the EV charger from the accessible parking

    space. b. The EVCS space shall be located on an accessible route, as defined in the California Building Code, Chapter 2, to the building.

    Exception: Electric vehicle charging stations designed and constructed in compliance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, are not required to comply with Section 4.106.4.2.2.1.1.

    4.106.4.2.2.1.2 Accessible electric vehicle charging station spaces. In addition to the requirements in Section 4.106.4.2.2.1.1, all EV chargers, where installed, shall comply with the accessibility provisions for EV chargers in the Califor- nia Building Code, Chapter 11B. EV ready spaces and EVCS in multifamily developments shall comply with California Building Code, Chapter 11A, Section 1109A.

    4.106.4.2.3 Reserved.

    4.106.4.2.4 Reserved.

    4.106.4.2.5 Electric vehicle ready space signage. Electric vehicle ready spaces shall be identified by signage or pavement markings, in compliance with Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s).

    4.106.4.2.6 Hotels and motels.

    1. EV ready parking spaces with receptacles. a. Hotels and motels. Forty (40) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles. Exception: Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including but not limited to automated mechanical-access open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code ; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging. b. Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:
    2. For 20- ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R
    3. For 30- ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R
    4. For 50- ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R
  • § 5-6 High relevance — show source text

    For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|

    5-6 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    5.106.5.3.6.1 Receptacle configurations. 208/240V EV charging receptacles shall comply with one of the following configurations:

    1. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R.
    2. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R.
    3. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R.

    5.106.5.3.6.2 EV Charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC or SAE J3400 connectors. When using level 2 SAE J3400 connectors, supplied by a 480 V 3-phase service, at least 20 percent of the EV charger connectors shall be SAE J1772 with a maximum output 240 Volts AC.

    5.106.5.3.6.3 Raceway capacity requirements. To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such receptacles shall be sized to allow the installation of a dedicated 208/240-volt 40-ampere branch circuit. Where no raceway is used, the conductors shall be sized to accommodate a 208/240-volt 40-ampere receptacle.

    5.106.5.4 Additions or alterations to existing buildings or parking facilities [A]. [BSC-CG] Existing buildings or parking facilities being modified by one of the following shall comply with Section 5.106.5.4.1 or 5.106.5.4.2. When EVSE is installed, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, Section 11B-228.3.

    1. When the scope of construction work includes an increase in power supply to an electric service panel as part of a parking facility addition or alteration.
    2. When a new photovoltaic system is installed covering existing parking spaces.
    3. When additions or alterations to existing buildings are triggered pursuant to code Section 301.3 and the scope of work includes an increase in power supply to an electric service panel.

    Exceptions:

    1. On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions: a. Where there is no local utility power supply. b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcement agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project. d. Where demonstrated as impracticable excluding local utility service or utility infrastructure issues.
    2. Remote parking facilities that do not have access to the building service panel.
    3. Parking area lighting upgrades where no trenching is part of the scope of work.
    4. Emergency repairs, including but not limited to water line break in parking facilities, natural disaster repairs, etc.
  • § 6.6 High relevance — show source text

    6|Total required kVA = P× .30× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility|Total required kVA = P× .30× 6.6
    Where P = Parking spaces in facility| |1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
    2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
    3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67 percent.
    4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
    5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|

    A5.106.5.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces, Section 5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations and associated Table A5.106.5.3.3, or Section A5.106.5.3.4 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method and associated Table A5.106.5.3.4.

    Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.2 for the permitted use of Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) to create EVCS. Refer to Section 5.106.3.2.1 for the allowed use of DCFC to comply with both EV capable spaces and Level 2 EVSE. Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.3 for the allowed use of Automatic Load Management System (ALMS).

  • § 5.106.5.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    Remote parking facilities that do not have access to the building service panel. 3. Parking area lighting upgrades where no trenching is part of the scope of work. 4. Emergency repairs, including but not limited to water line break in parking facilities, natural disaster repairs, etc.

    5.106.5.4.1 Existing buildings or parking areas without previously installed EV capable infrastructure [A]. When EV capable infrastructure does not exist at an existing parking facility or building, and the parking facility or building undergoes an addition or alteration listed in Section 5.106.5.4, construction shall include electric vehicle charging in compliance with either Section 5.106.5.3 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1, or Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6 for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered.

    5.106.5.4.2 Existing buildings or parking areas with previously installed EV capable infrastructure [A]. When EV capable infrastructure is available at an existing parking facility or building, and the parking facility or building is undergoing an addition or alteration listed in Section 5.106.5.4, construction shall include electric vehicle charging in compliance with either Section 5.106.5.3 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1, or Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6. Install EVCS at all existing EV capable spaces, utilizing the existing allocated power and infrastructure for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered, prior to adding any new EV capable spaces. If the area being added or altered exceeds the existing EV capable capacity, allocated power and infrastructure, provide additional EV charging as needed to comply with this section.

    5.106.5.5 Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty. [N] [BSG-CG] Construction shall comply with Section 5.106.5.5.1 to facilitate future installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Construction for warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufacturing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces shall also comply with Section 5.106.5.5.1 for future installation of medium- and heavy-duty EVSE.

    Exceptions:

    1. On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions: a. Where there is no local utility power supply. b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcing agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-7

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    When EVSE(s) is/are installed, it shall be in accordance with the California Building Code, the California Electrical Code and as follows:

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any 240 V receptacle I want for EV charging?

No. For 208/240 V EV charging receptacles the code limits you to NEMA 6‑20R (20 A), NEMA 14‑30R (30 A) or NEMA 14‑50R (50 A) as listed in § 5.106.5.3.2.1.

If I install a DC fast charger, how many EV capable spaces can I eliminate?

Each DCFC EVSE installed may reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces by five, and the required electrical load capacity is reduced proportionally, per § 5.106.5.3.2.3.

Are SAE J3400 connectors allowed on Level‑2 chargers?

Yes. EV chargers may be equipped with SAE J1772 (≤240 V AC) or SAE J3400 connectors. If Level‑2 SAE J3400 is supplied by 480 V 3‑phase, at least 20% of the site connectors must be SAE J1772, per § 5.106.5.3.2.2.

Can a single charger with multiple connectors count for multiple EVCS obligations?

Yes — a charger with multiple connectors that can charge multiple EVs simultaneously is permitted if the EVSE's electrical capacity equals the accumulative capacity required by the EV capable spaces it replaces (see EVCS multi‑connector allowance).

Where do I look for raceway and conduit sizing for future upgrades?

Raceway capacity and conductor sizing for low‑power Level‑2 receptacles (to allow future upgrade to a 208/240 V, 40‑amp branch circuit) are covered in the code text accompanying the EV receptacle provisions (see the raceway sizing language referenced in related sections).

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