In 2015, the State of California passed Assembly Bill 1236 (2015, Chiu, codified as Government Code Section 65850.7), which mandates local jurisdictions to adopt an ordinance establishing an expedited and streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations. In 2021, Assembly Bill 970 was enacted, adding specific binding timelines for the review of applications to install electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS), based on parking requirements and the size of the proposed stations.

The purpose of these laws is to enhance the availability of charging infrastructure and promote the adoption of zero-emission vehicles. As part of the requirements of AB 1236, an objective checklist must be created, detailing the necessary criteria for installing an electric vehicle charging station. Additionally, there will be a process for the electronic submission of permit applications. The proposed checklist must be included with all EVCS applications.