National baseline
The NBC and national energy codes are being updated to include EV charging provisions. The scope and timeline depend on the code edition and federal-provincial adoption cycles.
Canadian building code question
What are the building code requirements for EV charging in buildings in Canada?
Recent code amendments and provincial regulations in Canada require new buildings with parking to include EV charging infrastructure, ranging from electrical rough-in capacity for future chargers to fully energized EV-ready parking spaces, with requirements varying by province and building type.
As electric vehicle adoption accelerates in Canada, building codes and energy codes are being updated to require EV charging infrastructure in new construction. Requirements range from conduit and electrical panel capacity rough-in to fully energized Level 2 charging stations, with the scope and percentage of required spaces varying significantly by province and building type.
What to check first
- Several provinces now require a percentage of parking spaces in new buildings to be EV-ready (with energized outlets or dedicated circuits).
- Additional parking spaces may require EV-capable rough-in (conduit and panel capacity reserved for future charging installation).
- Electrical panel sizing, load management systems, and ventilation for EV charging areas in enclosed parking are key design considerations.
Jurisdiction notes
British Columbia
BC was an early leader, requiring 100% of parking spaces in new multi-unit residential buildings to be EV-ready under the BC Building Code and Zoning requirements.
Other provinces
Ontario, Quebec, and other provinces have adopted or are adopting EV charging requirements through building code amendments, energy codes, or municipal zoning bylaws. Requirements vary significantly.
Work through it in this order
- Determine the applicable provincial and municipal EV charging requirements for the building type and location.
- Calculate the number of EV-ready, EV-capable, and EV-rough-in parking spaces required.
- Size the electrical service and panels to accommodate the EV charging load, including future expansion.
- Verify ventilation requirements for EV charging in enclosed parking structures.
- Confirm conduit routing, circuit allocation, and load management system requirements.
Common questions
Do all new buildings in Canada need EV charging?
Requirements vary by province and municipality. Several provinces now require EV charging infrastructure in new buildings with parking, but the percentage of spaces and level of readiness vary.
What is the difference between EV-ready and EV-capable parking?
EV-ready spaces have an energized outlet or dedicated circuit ready for a charger. EV-capable spaces have conduit and panel capacity reserved but are not yet energized. Definitions may vary by jurisdiction.
Does EV charging require additional ventilation in a parking garage?
EV charging in enclosed parking structures may have ventilation considerations different from conventional vehicles, particularly regarding carbon monoxide detection systems that may not be triggered by electric vehicles.