You should not run a charging cable from your home to a vehicle across the pavement, even with the use of a cable protector or ramp.
The Highways Act 1980 makes it illegal to place a wire or apparatus over, along or across a highway/pavement without consent from the Highway Authority. Doing so poses a danger to the public, risking injury. If this happens, you could be prosecuted and liable under civil law.
The government issued new guidance on cross-pavement solutions for charging electric vehicles in December 2024.
We have been working on options for our residents based on the guidance and are monitoring trials in other local authorities. We are planning to run a trial to make sure that the appropriate processes are in place before making cross-pavement charging available in Dorset.
If you would like to take part in the trial, email us at electricvehicles@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and include:
