Portland, Ore. — Last week, City Council voted unanimously to approve the Electric Vehicle (EV) Ready Code Project. This project amends the Portland Zoning Code to require all new multi-dwelling and mixed-use development with five or more units — that include onsite parking — to provide electric vehicle (EV) ready charging infrastructure.
These new code amendments supplement recent state legislation requiring new multi-family developments to provide EV-charging conduit, the “tubing” through which electrical wires would pass, in a percentage of residents’ parking spaces.
“As we continue to shape a future that transitions us away from fossil fuels, this project will ensure that our new residential development projects will have adequate electric-vehicle infrastructure, allowing for a more equitably balanced expansion to those who would otherwise not have access to charging stations,” said Commissioner Carmen Rubio, who oversees the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability. “I want to thank the Planning and Sustainability Commission for all the excellent work put into this well-rounded proposal.”
As they voted, Council members shared stories of support for the proposed amendments and collectively noted that the new rules will ensure Portland continues its legacy as a global leader in climate justice and remains at the head of the climate revolution.
Commissioner Mingus Mapps recognized the work of Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) to build an electric future and said, “This proposal is an important step in that direction.” He also noted PBOT’s plan to bring a proposal to City Council for EV charging in the right-of-way in the coming months.
The new rules will go into effect on March 31, 2023.