Title 24 · California Energy Code

How many receptacles/chargers are required in multifamily parking and when can ALMS reduce capacity?

Q: Can ALMS be used to avoid installing Level 2 chargers?

No. ALMS can reduce the required electrical capacity per space , not the number of receptacles/chargers required by the parking‑count rules. The 25% Level 2 charger requirement for unassigned common parking remains unless another specific exception applies (see § 4.106.4.2.2 ) .

Q: Do EVCS spaces have special size or slope requirements?

Yes — installed EVCS spaces must meet minimum length 18 ft and width 9 ft , specific aisle width requirements, and a maximum slope of 1 in 48 (≈2.083%) for the EVCS space and aisle; accessibility routing or adjacency requirements also apply (see § 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 ) .

Q: If I have 10 unassigned common spaces, how many Level 2 chargers are required?

25% of 10 = 2.5 → round up to 3 Level 2 chargers (25% rule for multifamily unassigned/common parking; round up per § 4.106.4.2 rounding guidance) .

If you build a multifamily property in California, you must provide low‑power Level 2 EV receptacles per the assigned/unassigned rules in **§ 4.106.4.2.2** (one per dwelling as required), equip **25%** of unassigned/common spaces with installed Level 2 chargers, and you may use an automatic load management system only to reduce electrical capacity if the system can still deliver at least **3.3 kW** to each station and meets the **40 A branch circuit / 30 A charger** minimums (see **§ 4.106.4.2.2** and **§ 4.106.4.2.6**) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

In plain terms: new multifamily buildings must provide low‑power Level 2 EV charging receptacles so residents can plug in; how many depends on whether parking is assigned, unassigned, or both — see § 4.106.4.2.2. In addition, a portion of unassigned/common parking must be equipped with installed Level 2 EV chargers (the rule uses a percent‑of‑spaces requirement). An automatic load management system (ALMS) is permitted to reduce the required electrical capacity per space only when the system and on‑site transformers can still deliver the minimum power required by the code (see § 4.106.4.2.2 and § 4.106.4.2.6) .

The single most important rule: provide one low‑power Level 2 receptacle per dwelling unit (where required by assigned/unassigned rules), and if you use ALMS you must still assure at least 3.3 kW per EV charging station served simultaneously and meet branch‑circuit and charger minimums (see § 4.106.4.2.2).

Requirements in detail

Which parking spaces must get receptacles (summary)

If assigned parking spaces are provided and the number of assigned spaces is equal to or greater than the number of dwelling units, then at least one low‑power Level 2 receptacle must be provided at an assigned space for each dwelling unit ( § 4.106.4.2.2(a) ) .
If unassigned (common) parking spaces are provided and the number of unassigned spaces is equal to or greater than the number of dwelling units, then at least one low‑power Level 2 receptacle must be provided at an unassigned space for each dwelling unit ( § 4.106.4.2.2(b) ) .
If both assigned and unassigned parking are provided and each type individually equals or exceeds the number of dwelling units, you may provide the required one‑per‑dwelling receptacle at either the assigned or the unassigned spaces — but not both ( § 4.106.4.2.2(c) ) .
If the number of dwelling units exceeds the number of assigned (or unassigned) spaces, then all such assigned (or unassigned) spaces must have one low‑power Level 2 receptacle ( § 4.106.4.2.2(a).1 / (b).1 ) .

Installed Level 2 EV chargers required (multifamily)

For multifamily parking with unassigned or common use parking, 25% of the unassigned/common spaces not already provided with a low‑power Level 2 receptacle must be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers and made available to residents/guests (this is in addition to the receptacle requirements) (see § 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2) .

Technical / electrical minimums and receptacle configuration

Receptacle configurations for 208/240 V receptacles must be one of the listed NEMA types: NEMA 6‑20R (20 A), NEMA 14‑30R (30 A), or NEMA 14‑50R (50 A) ( § 4.106.4.2.2(e) ) .
Receptacles at assigned parking should be provided on a dedicated branch circuit connected to the dwelling unit’s electrical panel, unless found infeasible by the builder/designer and concurred by the local enforcing agency ( § 4.106.4.2.2(d) ) .
Calculations for spaces are rounded up to the next whole number (general rule in § 4.106.4.2) .

ALMS (Automatic Load Management System) — when it can reduce required electrical capacity

An ALMS may be used to reduce the maximum required electrical capacity to each space served by the ALMS, but only if the building‑level electrical system and any on‑site distribution transformer(s) still have sufficient capacity to deliver at least 3.3 kW simultaneously to each EV charging station (EVCS) served by the ALMS (this is the minimum simultaneous power requirement) (see § 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2.c) .
When ALMS is used the code also prescribes minimum circuit and charger ratings: branch circuit minimum capacity = 40 amperes, and installed EV chargers must be not less than 30 amperes (see § 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2.c) .
The ALMS option reduces electrical capacity requirements, not the requirement to provide the required number of receptacles/chargers per the parking‑type rules. The ALMS rules appear in the same multifamily and hotels sections and are repeated for EVCS provisions (compare § 4.106.4.2.2 and § 4.106.4.2.6) .

EVCS (physical space) dimensions & accessibility

EV charging station spaces with installed chargers must meet minimum space dimensions: length = 18 ft, width = 9 ft; traffic aisle minimums and a 1‑in‑48 maximum slope requirement apply; one in every 25 EVCS spaces (but not less than one) must have an 8‑ft aisle (or 5‑ft aisle permitted if space width is 12 ft) and meet accessible‑route or adjacency requirements (see § 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 and § 4.106.4.2.2.1.2 ) .

Decision‑relevant summary table

Decision dimension	What the code requires	Code reference
Assigned parking ≥ dwelling units	Provide one low‑power Level 2 receptacle at an assigned space for each dwelling unit	§ 4.106.4.2.2(a)
Unassigned parking ≥ dwelling units	Provide one low‑power Level 2 receptacle at an unassigned space for each dwelling unit	§ 4.106.4.2.2(b)
Both assigned & unassigned each ≥ dwelling units	Provide one receptacle per dwelling unit at either assigned or unassigned (not both)	§ 4.106.4.2.2(c)
Dwelling units > assigned (or unassigned) spaces	All assigned (or unassigned) spaces must have one low‑power Level 2 receptacle	§ 4.106.4.2.2(a).1 / (b).1
Installed Level 2 chargers — multifamily unassigned/common	25% of unassigned/common spaces not already provided with receptacles must have Level 2 chargers	§ 4.106.4.2.2 (Item 2)
ALMS allowed to reduce capacity	ALMS permitted only if system can still deliver ≥ 3.3 kW to each EVCS served; branch circuit ≥ 40 A; charger ≥ 30 A	§ 4.106.4.2.2 (Item 2.c) and § 4.106.4.2.6
EVCS dimensions / accessible route	EVCS min 18 ft × 9 ft, aisle and slope requirements; accessibility per building code	§ 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 / .1.2

Exceptions & special cases

Parking lifts or areas incapable of supporting charging: The code excludes areas served by parking lifts or other parking facilities that are incapable of supporting EV charging from the receptacle/charger requirements (explicit exception language in § 4.106.4.2.2 and § 4.106.4.2.6) .
Dedicated circuit infeasible: Receptacles at assigned parking are intended to be on a dedicated branch circuit to the dwelling’s panel; the builder/designer may document infeasibility and seek concurrence from the local enforcing agency to use an alternative arrangement ( § 4.106.4.2.2(d) ) .
Accessibility compliance: EVCS and EV ready spaces in multifamily must also meet accessibility requirements in the California Building Code (Chapter 11A/11B) when applicable (see § 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 / .1.2) .
Rounding: When calculating how many spaces or chargers are required, round up to the next whole number (general instruction in § 4.106.4.2) .

Common mistakes

Confusing voluntary Appendix (Tier) percentages with mandatory requirements — the Appendix rules (Tier 1/Tier 2) differ from the mandatory § text; always use the mandatory § 4.106.4.2.2 language first .
Assuming ALMS allows fewer receptacles/chargers — ALMS only reduces required electrical capacity per space, not the number of receptacles/chargers required by the parking‑type rules (the ALMS clauses address capacity minimums and circuit sizing) .
Failing to provide the dedicated branch circuit at assigned parking unless documented infeasible and approved by the enforcing agency (this is commonly missed) .
Not rounding up fractional counts when calculating required chargers or receptacles (code requires rounding up) .
Overlooking accessibility and minimum EVCS dimensions when installing chargers (see § 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 / .1.2) .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: 60 dwelling units; 60 assigned parking spaces; 30 unassigned (common) spaces.

Assigned parking equals dwelling units (60 = 60) → one low‑power Level 2 receptacle must be provided at an assigned space for each dwelling unit → 60 receptacles at assigned spaces ( § 4.106.4.2.2(a) ) .
Unassigned/common spaces (30) are present. The mandatory charger rule requires 25% of unassigned/common spaces not already provided with low‑power receptacles be equipped with installed Level 2 EV chargers. If the 60 receptacles are all at assigned spaces (so the 30 unassigned have no receptacles), then 25% of 30 = 7.5 → round up to 8 Level 2 chargers in the unassigned area ( § 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2 ) .
If the project installs an ALMS to reduce required electrical capacity per charger, the building electrical system and transformers must still be able to deliver ≥ 3.3 kW simultaneously to each EVCS served, and branch circuits must be ≥ 40 A with chargers ≥ 30 A (ALMS does not reduce the count calculated above) ( § 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2.c ) .

Result: 60 receptacles (assigned) + 8 installed Level 2 chargers (in unassigned area) — ALMS can be used to reduce capacity provisioning but must meet the 3.3 kW / 40 A / 30 A minimums.

Related provisions (quick list)

§ 4.106.4.2.2 — Multifamily receptacle & charger rules (assigned/unassigned rules, ALMS language)
§ 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 — EVCS space dimensions, aisle, slope, and location/accessibility requirements
§ 4.106.4.2.6 — Hotels/motels EV ready and EV charger percentages and ALMS language (parallels multifamily)
§ 4.106.4.3 — Additions/alterations to existing parking when permits are required (each added/altered space must have access to a receptacle or charger)
Accessibility rules cross‑reference: California Building Code, Chapter 11A/11B for EVCS accessibility and accessible parking adjacency

Code references

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

§ 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
4-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

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.
§ 4-4 High relevance — show source text
4-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

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.

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.
§ 4.106.4.2.3 High relevance — show source text
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. EV Ready parking spaces with EV chargers. a. Hotels and motels. Twenty-five (25) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 4-5

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

RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

b. EV charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with J1772 or J3400 connectors. 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. 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.

4.106.4.3 Electric vehicle charging for additions and alterations of parking facilities serving existing multifamily buildings, hotels and motels. When existing parking facilities are altered or new parking spaces are added to existing parking facilities, and the work requires a building permit, each parking space added or altered shall have access to either a low power Level 2 EV charging receptacle or Level 2 EV charger, unless determined as infeasible by the project builder or designer and subject to concurrence of the local enforcing agency.

Exception: Where work requiring a permit is being performed for the installation of 120-volt electrical receptacle(s) for level 1 EV charging.

4.106.4.4. Bicycle parking. Bicycle parking shall comply with Sections 4.106.4.4.1 through 4.106.4.4.3.
§ 4.106.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text
4.106.4.2 New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels and new residential parking facilities. When parking is provided, parking spaces for new multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels shall meet the requirements of Section 4.106.4.2.2. Calculations for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number. A parking space served by electric vehicle supply equipment or designed as an EV charging space shall count as at least one standard automobile parking space only for the purpose of complying with any applicable minimum parking space requirements established by a local jurisdiction. See Vehicle Code Section 22511.2 for further details.

4.106.4.2.1 Reserved.

4.106.4.2.2 Multifamily dwellings.
1. EV ready parking spaces with receptacles. a. Multifamily parking facilities with assigned parking. Where dwelling units are provided with assigned 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 at an assigned parking space for each dwelling unit.
2. Where the total number of dwelling units exceeds the number of assigned parking spaces, all assigned 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. b. Multifamily parking facilities with unassigned parking. Where dwelling units are provided with 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 at an unassigned parking space for each dwelling unit.
3. 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:
4. For 20-ampere receptacles, NEMA 6-20R
5. For 30-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-30R
6. For 50-ampere receptacles, NEMA 14-50R
4-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
§ 106.8 Medium relevance — show source text
New multifamily dwellings and hotels and motels.**
1. EV Ready Parking Spaces with Receptacles.
a. Hotels and motels. Sixty (60) percent of the total number of
parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV
charging receptacles.
**b. Raceway Capacity Requirements.**To allow for future
upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2
EV charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such recep-
tacles 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.
Exception:
Hotels and motels may substitute Level 2 EV chargers for some or
all of the required EV charging receptacles.
2. EV Ready Parking Spaces with EV Chargers.
**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.
b. Multifamily Parking Facilities with Unassigned or Common
**Use Parking.**In addition to the low power Level 2 EV charging
receptacle requirements of Section A4.106.8 (Tier 1, subsection
1), forty (40) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall
be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers and shall be made avail-
able for use by all residents or guests.|||2|||| |Innovative Concepts and Local
Environmental Conditions||||||| |A4.108.1 Items in this section are necessary to address innovative
concepts or local environmental conditions.||||||| |Item 1|
|
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|
| |Item 2|
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| |Item 3||||||| |ENERGY EFFICIENCY||||||| |General||||||| |4.201.1 Building meets or exceeds the requirements of the_California_
_Building Energy Efficiency Standards_3.||2|2|||| |Performance Approach for Newly
Constructed Buildings||||||| |**A4.203.1.1 Hourly Source Energy Rating (EDR1).**EDR1 ratings for
building design shall be computed by Energy Compliant software and
shall reduce the EDR1 required by the software by the compliance
margins specified in Table A4.203.1.1.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.2 Prerequisite options.
§ 1.2. Medium relevance — show source text
RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

1.2. 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 4.106.4, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project. 2. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) without additional parking facilities.

4.106.4.1 New one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses with attached private garages. For each dwelling unit, install a listed raceway to accommodate a dedicated 208/240-volt branch circuit. The raceway shall not be less than trade size 1 (nominal 1-inch inside diameter). The raceway shall originate at the main service or subpanel and shall terminate into a listed cabinet, box or other enclosure in close proximity to the proposed location of an EV charger. Raceways are required to be continuous at enclosed, inaccessible or concealed areas and spaces. The service panel and/or subpanel shall provide capacity to install a 40-ampere 208/240-volt minimum dedicated branch circuit and space(s) reserved to permit installation of a branch circuit overcurrent protective device.

Exception: A raceway is not required if a minimum 40-ampere 208/240-volt dedicated EV branch circuit is installed in close proximity to the proposed location of an EV charger at the time of original construction in accordance with the California Elec- trical Code .

4.106.4.1.1 Identification. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the overcurrent protective device space(s) reserved for future EV charging as “EV CAPABLE”. The raceway termination location shall be permanently and visibly marked as “EV CAPABLE”.

4.106.4.2 New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels and new residential parking facilities. When parking is provided, parking spaces for new multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels shall meet the requirements of Section 4.106.4.2.2. Calculations for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number. A parking space served by electric vehicle supply equipment or designed as an EV charging space shall count as at least one standard automobile parking space only for the purpose of complying with any applicable minimum parking space requirements established by a local jurisdiction. See Vehicle Code Section 22511.2 for further details.

4.106.4.2.1 Reserved.

4.106.4.2.2 Multifamily dwellings.
1. EV ready parking spaces with receptacles. a. Multifamily parking facilities with assigned parking. Where dwelling units are provided with assigned 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 at an assigned parking space for each dwelling unit.
2. Where the total number of dwelling units exceeds the number of assigned parking spaces, all assigned 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. b. Multifamily parking facilities with unassigned parking. Where dwelling units are provided with 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 at an unassigned parking space for each dwelling unit.
§ 3.3 Medium relevance — show source text
RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

b. EV charger connectors. EV chargers shall be equipped with J1772 or J3400 connectors. 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. 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.

4.106.4.3 Electric vehicle charging for additions and alterations of parking facilities serving existing multifamily buildings, hotels and motels. When existing parking facilities are altered or new parking spaces are added to existing parking facilities, and the work requires a building permit, each parking space added or altered shall have access to either a low power Level 2 EV charging receptacle or Level 2 EV charger, unless determined as infeasible by the project builder or designer and subject to concurrence of the local enforcing agency.

Exception: Where work requiring a permit is being performed for the installation of 120-volt electrical receptacle(s) for level 1 EV charging.

4.106.4.4. Bicycle parking. Bicycle parking shall comply with Sections 4.106.4.4.1 through 4.106.4.4.3.

4.106.4.4.1 Short-term bicycle parking for multifamily buildings, hotels and motels. Provide on-site bicycle parking at a ratio of one parking space for every 10,000 square feet, but not less than two spaces. Short-term bicycle parking shall be located within 200 feet of building entrances, and readily visible to passers-by. Acceptable parking facilities shall be conveniently accessed from the street and may include, but not be limited to:
1. Permanently anchored bicycle parking devices, racks, or lockers in an unsheltered, open area.
2. Covered or uncovered enclosures with permanently anchored bicycle parking devices or racks.
4.106.4.4.2 Long-term bicycle parking for multifamily buildings. Provide on-site bicycle parking at a ratio of one parking space for every two dwelling units. Acceptable parking facilities shall be conveniently accessed from the street and may include, but not be limited to:
1. Covered, lockable enclosures with permanently anchored bicycle parking devices or racks.
2. Lockable bicycle storage rooms with permanently anchored bicycle parking devices or racks.
3. Lockable, weatherproof, permanently anchored bicycle lockers.
4.106.4.4.3 Long-term bicycle parking for hotel and motel buildings. Provide one on-site long-term bicycle parking space for every 25,000 square feet, but not less than two. Acceptable parking facilities shall be conveniently accessed from the street and may include, but not be limited to:
1. Covered, lockable enclosures with permanently anchored bicycle parking devices or racks.
2. Lockable bicycle storage rooms with permanently anchored bicycle parking devices or racks.
3. Lockable, weatherproof, permanently anchored bicycle lockers.
4-6 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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§ 106.6 Medium relevance — show source text

106.6** Install a vegetated roof for at least 50 percent of the roof
area. Vegetated roofs shall comply with requirements for roof gardens
and landscaped roofs in the_California Building Code_, Chapters 15 and
16.||||||| |A4.106.7 Reduce nonroof heat islands for 50 percent of sidewalks,
patios, driveways or other paved areas by using one or more of the
methods listed.||||||| |A4.106.8.1 Tier 1 and Tier 2 for one- and two-family dwellings and
townhouses with attached private garages.
Install a dedicated 208/240-volt branch circuit, including an
overcurrent protective device rated at 40 amperes minimum per
dwelling unit.||2|2||||

APPENDIX A4-24 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

FEATURE OR MEASURE	LEVELS APPLICANT TO SELECT ELECTIVE MEASURES	Col3	Col4	VERIFICATIONS ENFORCING AGENCY TO SPECIFY VERIFICATION METHOD	Col6	Col7
FEATURE OR MEASURE	Mandatory	Prerequisites and electives1	Prerequisites and electives1	Enforcing Agency  All	Installer or Designer  All	Third party  All
FEATURE OR MEASURE	Mandatory	Tier 1	Tier 2	Tier 2	Tier 2	Tier 2
A4.106.8.2.1Provide capability for electric vehicle charging in new multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels, as specified. Tier 1. New multifamily dwellings and hotels and motels. 1. EV Ready Parking Spaces with Receptacles. a. Hotels and motels. Sixty (60) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles. b. Raceway Capacity Requirements.To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such recep- tacles shall be sized to allow the installation of a dedicated 208/ 240-volt 40-ampere branch circuit.

§ 106.8.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
A4.106.8.1.1 Identification. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the overcurrent protective device designated for future EV charging purposes as “EV READY” in accordance with the California Electrical Code. The receptacle or blank cover shall be identified as “EV READY.”

A4.106.8.2 New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels. New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels shall meet the following requirements.

A4.106.8.2.1 Multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels.

Tier 1. New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels.
1. EV ready parking spaces with receptacles. a. Hotels and motels. Sixty (60) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles. b. Raceway capacity requirements. To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such receptacles shall be sized to allow
APPENDIX A4-6 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

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.

Exception: Hotels and motels may substitute Level 2 EV chargers for some or all of the required EV charging receptacles. 2. EV ready parking spaces with EV chargers. a. Hotels and motels. Forty (40) percent of the total number of parking spaces for hotels and motels shall be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers. b. Multifamily parking facilities with unassigned or common use parking. In addition to the low power Level 2 EV charging receptacle requirements of Section A4.106.8 (Tier 1, subsection 1), forty (40) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers and shall be made available for use by all residents or guests.

Exception: Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including but not limited to automated mechanicalaccess open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code ; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging.

A4.106.8.2.2 Technical requirements. The EV spaces required by Section A4.106.8.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections 4.106.4.2, 4.106.4.2.2.1.1, 4.106.4.2.2.1.2, and 4.106.4.2.5.

SECTION A4.107 (RESERVED)

SECTION A4.108 —INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

A4.108.1 Innovative concepts and local environmental conditions. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use of any alternate material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, method, design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county government to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to Section 101.7.1.
§ 5.106.5.3.2.1 Medium 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.

§ 5.106.5.6.2 Medium 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.|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.

5.106.5.6.2.3 Use of automatic load management systems (ALMS). ALMS shall be permitted for EVCS installed in accordance with Section 5.106.5.6.2. When ALMS is installed, the required electrical load capacity specified in Section 5.106.5.6.1 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.

5.106.5.6.3 EVCS alternative compliance. In lieu of compliance with Section 5.106.5.6.2, EVCS shall be provided with Level 1, low power Level 2, or Level 2, or any combination of Level 1, low power Level 2 or Level 2 EVSE such that the total power supplied by the combination of EVSE meets the minimum power indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.3, based on the total number of actual parking spaces in each parking facility.

TABLE 5.106.5.6.3	Col2
NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES IN A PARKING FACILITY	MINIMUM TOTAL POWER (KVA) REQUIRED FOR EVCS
0–9	0
10–25	7
26–50	14
51–75	20
76–100	27
101–150	40
151–200	60
201 and over	Total required KVA = P × .05 × 6.6 Where P = Parking spaces in facility

2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-9

§ 5.106.5.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text

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.

Power allocation method shall include the following:

Use any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSEs.
At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.

TABLE 5.106.5.3.6-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 CAPABLE4, 5, LOW POWER LEVEL 2, LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC
1–9	0	0	0
10–25	26.4	26.4	26.4
26–50	52.8	52.8	52.8
51–75	85.8	85.8	85.8
76–100	112.2	112.2	112.2
101–150	165	165	165
151–200	231	231	231
201 and over	20 percent of actual parking spaces × 6.6	Total required kVA = P × .20 × 6.6 Where P = Parking spaces in facility	Total required kVA = P × .20 × 6.6 Where P = Parking spaces in facility
1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum. 2.

Frequently asked questions

Who decides if a dedicated branch circuit is “infeasible” for an assigned parking receptacle?

The project builder or designer documents infeasibility and must obtain concurrence from the local enforcing agency to use an alternate arrangement (see § 4.106.4.2.2(d)) .

Can ALMS be used to avoid installing Level 2 chargers?

No. ALMS can reduce the required electrical capacity per space, not the number of receptacles/chargers required by the parking‑count rules. The 25% Level 2 charger requirement for unassigned common parking remains unless another specific exception applies (see § 4.106.4.2.2) .

What minimum power and circuit sizes must be provided when ALMS is used?

The code requires that the on‑site electrical system and transformers be able to deliver at least 3.3 kW simultaneously to each EVCS served by the ALMS; branch circuits must be minimum 40 A and installed chargers not less than 30 A (see § 4.106.4.2.2, Item 2.c) .

Do EVCS spaces have special size or slope requirements?

Yes — installed EVCS spaces must meet minimum length 18 ft and width 9 ft, specific aisle width requirements, and a maximum slope of 1 in 48 (≈2.083%) for the EVCS space and aisle; accessibility routing or adjacency requirements also apply (see § 4.106.4.2.2.1.1 ) .

If I have 10 unassigned common spaces, how many Level 2 chargers are required?

25% of 10 = 2.5 → round up to 3 Level 2 chargers (25% rule for multifamily unassigned/common parking; round up per § 4.106.4.2 rounding guidance) .

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