EV Charging

The Board of Directors of Bridlewood Community Association has added a section to the Architectural Guidelines to cover the topic of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.  Discussions were held with Bridlewood’s attorneys to be sure that our requirements are in accordance with Virginia Law (55.1-1823.1). 

The new section is shown below.  The entire Architectural Control document can be found on Bridlewood’s website at:  bridlewoodcommunity.org/documents.  Homeowners should study this before any new exterior project or changes.

EV Charging Stations and Equipment

Application Required

Electric Vehicle charging stations or equipment are prohibited on common property, including equipment or cables that cross common property (sidewalks or parking lots for example) on a temporary or permanent basis.  

Single-Family Homes and Townhomes with Garages

Equipment may be installed on a lot owner’s property in accordance with the following requirements.  Location of the equipment, cables, and connectors must be within the home or adjacent to the home to allow charging in the garage or in the driveway.  Charging must be done on the homeowner’s property.  Cables or equipment shall not extend into the street or another homeowners property.  Placement and size of equipment must be as visually appealing as possible.  Cables that extend to the vehicle shall only be permitted on the exterior of the home while charging is taking place and must be moved inside the home/garage when not in use.

Only charging equipment intended for a single homeowner’s personal use is permitted on a homeowner’s property.  Commercial equipment for group or public use is not permitted.  All equipment must meet general safety concerns and requirements, including any state or county requirements, and must be installed by a licensed electrician.

An ACC Application is needed if any equipment or cables will extend outside the home.  Installations that are entirely within the homeowner’s garage do not require an application.  Note that Virginia law (55.1-1823.1) states that the lot owner shall indemnify and hold the Association harmless from all liability associated with EV charging stations.

Townhomes without Garage/Driveway

Sidewalks and parking spaces (including reserved spots) are common property.   EV charging equipment and cables are prohibited on common property.  Cables shall not be placed over or buried under sidewalks or parking areas, or other common property.  The Association understands that this prevents charging on streets and parking areas.  These prohibitions for use on common areas are due to safety concerns, infrastructure damage concerns, and visual appeal concerns.