How to charge your EV without a driveway: practical on-street solutions for homeowners

July 20, 2025

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to grow, one of the biggest challenges for many potential owners is how to charge their car at home without off-street parking. With around 40% of UK households lacking a driveway, finding accessible, safe and affordable on-street charging options is vital. Fortunately, there are now several practical solutions emerging to support residents in urban and suburban areas. Here are the main options:

• On-street residential charging schemes
Some councils are installing kerbside chargers in lampposts or bollards. These tap into existing infrastructure and can be accessed via an app or RFID card.

• Request a dedicated charging point
Local councils may install a charger near your home if demand is sufficient. This could range from a 7kW fast charger to a rapid unit, depending on local plans.

• Use nearby public charge points
Apps like Zapmap or Bonnet make it easy to locate chargers within walking distance, and check their availability and pricing in real time.

• Cable across pavement (with permission)
In certain areas, residents may run a charging cable over the pavement using a protective ramp or channel. Permission is usually required from the local authority.

• Community/shared charging hubs
In high-density housing areas, residents may share a private off-street charger or book time at a community charging hub, often managed by subscription.

• Mobile charging services
A few providers now offer mobile EV charging that comes to your vehicle, either at home or work. This is typically more expensive but adds convenience.

• Workplace charging
Many employers are now offering EV charging at work, which can reduce the need for home charging entirely. Grants are available to support installation.

If you’re an EV owner without a driveway, these solutions can help make the transition to electric easier and greener – without needing to pave over your front garden.