EV (Electric Vehicle) Administrative Directive

 

Administrative Standard for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations in Parking Garages

Purpose:

To establish administrative standards for the safe installation and operation of electronic vehicle (EV) charging stations within parking garages within Addison town limits. These standards address fire safety concerns associated with EV chargers, ensuring the protection of people, property, and emergency responders.

Fire Safety Concerns:

EV chargers present unique fire hazards, including:

  • The potential for EV batteries to burn at much higher temperatures than a typical structural fire.
  • The difficulty of extinguishing EV battery fires once ignited.
  • Limited fire department access within parking garages.
  • Increased risk of combustion during or immediately after charging.

Standards and Requirements:

  1. Pre-Wiring for Future Expansion:
    • All new parking garages can be pre-wired for the full extent of desired EV charging infrastructure during construction.  (first level only)
    • Pre-wiring facilitates easier and more cost-effective installation of additional chargers in the future.
  2. Fire Suppression and Safety Measures:
    • Parking garages must be fully sprinkled.
    • Areas containing EV charging stations must have increased density in their fire suppression system.
    • Emergency shut-off switches must be installed and clearly marked to allow power disconnection in case of emergency.
    • Two (2) hour fire separation must be provided around designated EV charging banks to minimize fire spread.
  3. Location Requirements:
    • EV charging stations must be installed only on the first floor of the parking garages.
    • Chargers must be placed near an entrance to facilitate quick vehicle removal in the event of an emergency.
    • EV chargers may also be located outside, provided they comply with all other applicable standards and safety measures.
  4. Consideration for Right-of-Way Installations:
    • Future options for installing EV chargers in the public right-of-way (ROW) will be explored.
    • The town may require a land lease or similar agreement to permit ROW installations.

 

Compliance and Enforcement:

  • All new construction and retrofits of EV charging stations must comply with these standards.
  • Periodic inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance and maintain safety.
  • Non-compliant installations will be subject to penalties and required modifications to meet safety requirements.

These standards aim to ensure that EV charging stations in parking garages are implemented safely while accommodating future infrastructure needs.

 

 

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