Power Leads Not Allowed Across Footpaths

As electric vehicles become more popular, owners living in inner city suburbs without off street parking are increasingly resorting to “illegal” and unsafe practices to charge their EV outside their home.

Example of running a charging cable across a footpath (with yellow cable cover)

Local councils advise they do not issue permits for on-street charging because, even with the (yellow) cable protector over the cable, the leads pose a trip hazard for pedestrians and possible problem for wheels on disability scooters and prams.

Even being inventive and routing the charging cable over-head, like the example below, is potentially dangerous and likely not allowed by councils.

Port Phillip Council in Melbourne say the fine is $960 for running cables over footpaths or nature strips, and encourage residents to submit photos of infringements, so they can address the problem and educate everyone about the risks and rules.

Power cord overhead and tied to tree, but still not safe or approved.

An engineering solution is being trialed by Port Phillip Council where “pop-up” charging points are installed kerb-side. However, these are expensive and take time for residents to get approval.

Presumably people using electric lawn mowers or leaf blowers at the front of their home are breaking the same rule? More work is needed to solve all the emerging issues arising from the electric transformation.

Acknowledgement: Based on article by S. Guthrie in Drive.com.au 11th October 2023