Can You Charge an EV Without a Driveway?
Absolutely—you can own and run an electric vehicle without off-street parking. While charging at home using a wall box is often seen as the most convenient and cost-effective method, millions of UK EV drivers live in flats, terraced houses, or city properties where a driveway simply isn’t an option.
So, how do you charge your electric car without a driveway? In this guide, we explore your best options, from on-street residential charging and public networks, to workplace solutions and shared charge points.
Can You Have a Home Wall Box Without a Driveway?
In most cases, a dedicated home wall charger requires off-street parking, such as a driveway or garage. This is for safety reasons—EV charging cables cannot legally or safely run across public footpaths unless approved protective measures are in place.
If you don't have space for a home charger, don’t worry—there are still several practical ways to keep your EV topped up.
How to Charge an EV Without Off-Street Parking
1. Use On-Street Residential Charging
More UK councils are installing on-street EV charge points in residential areas. These are typically built into lamp posts or slimline charging units on kerbsides, giving EV owners without driveways the option to charge close to home.
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Funded through the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS).
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Run by your local council, not private installers.
2. Charge at Work
If your workplace offers EV charge points, use them to your advantage by charging while you work. Many companies provide free or discounted charging to employees, making it a great option for regular commuters.
Employers can claim funding via the Workplace Charging Scheme, so if your employer doesn’t yet offer this, it’s worth starting the conversation.
Find out more in our blog: UK Government Extends Home and Workplace EV Charging Grants – What This Means for Drivers
3. Rely on Public Charging Networks
Public EV chargers are widely available across the UK in places like:
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Supermarkets and retail parks.
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Gyms and hotels.
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Petrol forecourts and motorway services.
Many public chargers are rapid or ultra-rapid, meaning you can charge up to 80% in just 30 minutes—ideal if you’re short on time.
4. Share Charging With Friends or Family
If a friend, neighbour or family member has a home charger, ask if you can share their setup. This can be a temporary solution or even a regular arrangement—with a bit of coordination, it can be cost-effective and convenient.
Just be sure to use your own cable and agree on a charging schedule if multiple EVs are involved.
5. Mobile and Pop-Up Charging Innovations
Some local councils are trialling pop-up chargers that rise from the pavement when needed, or mobile charging services that bring the charge to your car.
Although still in the early stages, this kind of technology is likely to become more common in dense urban areas as EV adoption grows.
Best Type 2 Charging Cable for Public and Street Charging
If you rely on public or on-street charging, having the right Type 2 EV charging cable is essential. Consider the following when choosing:
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10m or 15m cables offer more flexibility in tricky parking spots.
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22kW 3-phase cables are future-proof and compatible with faster chargers.
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IP55-rated for all-weather durability.
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Comes with a carry case and protective caps for on-the-go charging.
You don’t need a driveway to enjoy the benefits of owning an electric vehicle. From on-street residential charging and public networks to workplace schemes and shared solutions, there are more options than ever for charging without off-street parking.
By choosing the right setup and planning ahead, EV ownership is absolutely possible—driveway or not.
Find out more about EV incentives in our blog: UK Government Offers EV Drivers up to £3,750 off Electric Cars.
