đźš— EV Charging Station Traffic Rules in NY: What You Must Know
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common on New York’s roads, the laws and regulations around charging stations are catching up—and fast. Whether you're driving a Tesla, a Rivian, or just parking next to one, you need to know the rules to avoid unexpected tickets and fines.
⚡ The Rise of EV Charging Stations—and Traffic Confusion
You’ve probably seen charging stations pop up in mall parking lots, rest stops, gas stations and even curbside spots in NYC and Long Island. These designated spots may look like regular parking—but they’re not. Misunderstanding how they work could lead to:
Improper parking violations
Fines for non-EV vehicles in EV spots
Towing in some municipalities
đźš« Who Can Park in EV Charging Spaces?
New York State law (https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2019/S6836 allows municipalities and private property owners to designate “EV Only” spots. That means:
✅ If you’re in an electric vehicle and actively charging, you’re allowed.
❌ If you’re in a gas-powered car, hybrid, or EV not plugged in, you can be ticketed.
Some locations post signs stating a time limit (often 2–4 hours) to prevent drivers from hogging the charger. If you're plugged in but just hanging out, you might still get a ticket for “vehicle storage” or parking beyond permitted time.
💡 Tip from a traffic attorney: take a photo of any posted signs when you park—especially if you're cited later. Signage matters in your defense.
🏙️ NYC vs. Long Island Rules
New York City tends to be stricter:
DOT-run curbside chargers are enforced daily.
Non-EVs caught in charging spaces can be towed.
NYC is experimenting with “idle charging surcharges” to deter lingering after a charge is complete.
Long Island (like Nassau and Suffolk counties) is more decentralized:
Towns like Hempstead and North Hempstead have their own rules and enforcement policies.
Some malls and shopping centers use private security to monitor EV spots, especially during holidays.
⚠️ Do not assume a spot is fair game just because no one’s watching. Private lot tickets can still end up in court.
💸 Penalties: What’s at Stake?
Violating EV station rules can cost anywhere from $50 to $200+, depending on location and whether it’s your first offense. Repeat violations may carry higher fines or result in points if associated with broader parking or safety infractions.
In rare cases, police may issue a moving violation for obstructing traffic if your vehicle’s position near a charger is hazardous.
🧾 How to Fight an EV Station Ticket
If you’ve been ticketed for improper use of an EV charging space, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it, either. Here’s what I recommend:
Document the scene: Take photos of the sign, your car, the charger, and anything unclear or missing.
Check the law: Some charging zones aren’t properly marked, which may be grounds for dismissal.
Consult a traffic attorney: Attorney’s can drivers contest unfair or misapplied parking and moving violations, especially when signage or enforcement was inconsistent.
🚦 Final Charge: What You Should Remember
EV charging stations aren’t just parking spots—they’re legal zones with their own rules. Whether you drive electric or not, understanding how these areas are enforced in NYC and Long Island can help you avoid unnecessary fines and keep your license clean.
If you’re hit with a ticket, reach out. I’ll take the wheel from here.
—
Michael E. Beer, Esq.
Your traffic law ally across NYC and Long Island
đź“ž Call or Text Anytime: (516) 505-2300
đź“Ť 5TownsTraffic.com
