New car rule affecting every driveway in the UK started this summer

New rules affecting every home with a driveway in the UK came into effect earlier this year, with electric car owners set to feel the benefit. Under the rules, drivers and businesses will not have to submit a planning application to install public or private EV sockets.

The Department for Transport confirmed the Government would cut red tape, making it easier than ever to install electric vehicle charging plugs. The announcement in May,confirmed the planning changes would also apply to businesses and public chargepoints. According to Government officials, the move will help road users unlock savings of up to £1,100 per year compared to running a traditional petrol and diesel combustion model.

Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, stressed the move would help "power up the EV revolution".

Lillian added: "We continue to make the switch to EVs easier, cheaper and better by investing over £2.3 billion to support drivers and back British carmakers through international trade deals - creating jobs, boosting investment and securing our future as part of our Plan for Change."

According to the statistics, there are over 1.6 million fully electric cars registered in the UK as of July 2025. Meanwhile, there are around 300,000 private electric car chargers in the UK, compared to just 42,000 public charging points. It means the vast majority of motorists top-up their electric vehicles at home making a change to planning rules almost vital.

Motorists can also top-up their electric vehicle using a standard three-pin plug but this offers significantly slower charging speeds. It means the majority of EV owners will have installed a home charging wallbox which can be fitted for around £1,000.

The AA are among the top motoring brands who have openly backed the decision, claiming the move would lead to an increase in the number of plugs.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for The AA previously explained: "With a target of 300,000 publicly available chargers by 2030, Government should be doing all it can to help reach this milestone.

"Removing the planning rules is a positive step and will help accelerate installations. The crucial element is ensuring grid connection in a timely manner. This is especially important in rural locations and areas where there is no dedicated off-street parking."