EV charging bays: what motorists should check before parking

Electric Vehicle charging bays

Parking in an EV charging bay can involve more than simply plugging in your vehicle.

As the number of EV cars increases, POPLA has seen more appeals involving EV charging bays. These bays can have separate terms and conditions, and recent reports from POPLA identified cases where the conditions displayed within an EV bay didn’t align with the main terms displayed elsewhere in the car park.

POPLA’s most recent 2025 Annual Report also highlights unclear or confusing signage, payment issues and inconsistencies in how parking operators apply their processes among the common issues behind appeals.

What should you check?

Before leaving your vehicle in an EV charging bay, take a moment to check:

• The main car park signs: Make sure you understand the wider terms and conditions for parking at the site.
• Any EV-specific signs: Some bays have additional conditions, such as only being available while a vehicle is actively charging.
• Payment requirements: Check whether there are separate requirements for charging and parking.
• Time limits: Look for any restrictions on how long you can park or use the charging bay.
• Registration requirements: Check whether you need to enter or validate your vehicle registration.

It is important to check all of the conditions that apply rather than assuming the instructions at the charging point cover the wider parking arrangements too.

Why does clear signage matter?

Different sets of conditions can create confusion for motorists. POPLA has previously identified inconsistencies between the main terms displayed around a car park and those shown specifically within EV charging bays.

Taking the time to check both sets of signs can help you understand what is expected before leaving your vehicle.

Received a Parking Charge Notice?

If you believe a Parking Charge Notice has been issued incorrectly, you should appeal to the private parking operator first.

If the operator rejects your appeal and is part of the British Parking Association Approved Operator Scheme, you should receive a 10-digit verification code. You can then appeal to POPLA, which provides a free and independent review of the evidence submitted by both sides.

If signage is relevant to your appeal, make sure you submit any supporting evidence when you appeal, as POPLA requires evidence to be provided upfront.