Five RCRC counties now comply with a law requiring Electric Vehicle (EV) Streamlining for charging station permitting, including Alpine, Napa, San Luis Obispo, Sonoma and Sutter Counties, while seven RCRC counties are in the process of moving toward lawful compliance (see here). While rural counties face many challenges, including limited resources and staffing, all municipalities have been mandated by a 2015 law (Assembly Bill 1236) to streamline EV charging station permits in order to expedite the availability of charging stations. Such compliance would also facilitate the ambitious Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) readiness goals set by the Brown Administration, later accelerated by the Newsom Administration. California is currently the leading ZEV market, making up at nearly half of all ZEV sales nationwide. RCRC counties, home to national parks, forests, mountains, deserts and the coast, receive millions of visitors annually that may require robust “fueling” options for travelers.
The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) continues to offer assistance to local government agencies (and businesses alike) on ZEV readiness and AB 1236 compliance, including best practices and streamlining templates. Please utilize the GO-Biz contact form (avaiable here) or reach the ZEV unit at zev@gobiz.ca.gov for more information or direct assistance.