Electric vehicle drivers could make a pricey error, car experts have warned. If you’re thinking about leaving your car in an electric vehicle charging bay without plugging it in, you could land a fine.
Growing numbers of drivers are being fined for blocking charge points. Neil Hutchinson from car servicing company, Mercury Car Centre, says many drivers still misunderstand the rules around EV bays, and it’s costing them.
Neil says: “A lot of people still see EV charging bays as convenient parking spots, especially in supermarkets and retail car parks. But these spaces are there for one purpose, charging, and parking in one without plugging in can lead to fines.”
In recent months councils and private car park operators have stepped up enforcement.
Drivers caught misusing an EV bay can face Penalty Charge Notices of around £70, or private Parking Charge Notices ranging from £50 to £100.
Some charging networks also issue overstay fees once a vehicle has finished charging but remains in the bay.
Neil adds: “Even if you own an electric car, you can still be fined if you’re parked but not charging.
“Enforcement officers don’t need to prove that your car was capable of charging, only that it wasn’t connected.
“A car sitting there with no cable plugged in is enough to trigger a ticket.”
The number of complaints about blocked EV bays has risen sharply as more people switch to electric vehicles.
Neil says the issue isn’t just about fines, it’s about common sense and courtesy.
He says: “Charging bays are the electric version of a petrol pump. You wouldn’t leave your car parked at a fuel station while you went shopping, so the same logic applies here. Every driver has to do their bit to keep the system moving.”
He also warned that many drivers overlook the small print on car park signs, where restrictions are clearly listed.
Neil advises drivers to move their vehicles promptly once charging is complete, avoid parking in EV bays unless they intend to charge, and check for time limits on public charge points.
By following this simple advice, you can avoid any costly fines.
