Austin Adopts New Zoning Rules for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

In a bid to uphold its Climate Equity Plan goal, the city of Austin takes a bold step forward for electric vehicle infrastructure

In a move that signals its commitment to eco-friendly practices and the trend towards electric vehicles (EVs), the city of Austin has adopted new zoning rules to accommodate EV charging stations. The decision, unanimously agreed upon by the city council, aims at building a solid infrastructure that supports a growing electric vehicle demand within the city.

New Zoning Category For EV Charging

The amendments to the city Land Development Code will allow certain properties to be converted into EV charging stations. The city council believes that the new initiative will help more people secure lower-cost housing while also encouraging the use of environmentally friendly vehicles. Prior to this decision, Austin did not include a zoning category exclusively for electric vehicle charging, posing a hindrance to the development of requisite infrastructure.

Supporting a Green Future

The new zoning amendments provide a platform for companies interested in setting up EV charging stations within the city. The move not only supports Austin’s goal of promoting electric vehicles, but also attracts businesses that share the city’s green vision.

Though the electric vehicle fleet in Austin currently stands at approximately 6.79% of the total on-road vehicles, the city is forecasting an exponential increase in electric vehicle adoption by 2030. A growth of nearly 300% is anticipated, boosting the total EV fleet to almost 1,000 vehicles by the end of the decade.

Permissible Zones for Charging Stations

According to the newly adopted EV charging ordinance, commercial charging stations can be set up in the following zoning categories: General Commercial Services (CS), Commercial Liquor Sales (CS-1), Commercial Highway (CH), Industrial Park (IP), Major Industry (MI), Limited Industrial Services (LI), and Research and Development (R&D).

A Boost for Climate Equity Goals

The new rules signal Austin’s determination to achieve the ambitious climate goals spelled out in their 2020 Climate Equity Plan. The Plan targets electrifying 40 percent of total vehicle miles traveled in Austin, along with promoting diverse electric vehicle ownership across cultural, geographical, and economic strata.

“Austin is a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the proposed amendment aligns with principles identified in Chapter Three of Imagine Austin: ‘We use and inspire new technologies that create more sustainable communities, while reducing our dependence on environmentally costly practices,'”, reads a prepared synopsis by the city staff about the new zoning category.

As Austin propels itself into the future towards a greener, cleaner city, the adoption of new zoning rules for EV charging stations highlights an important aspect of city planning. It underscores the commitment towards environmental sustainability and making electric vehicles a viable option for more people, thus driving progress for future generations.