Parking In An Electric Vehicle Spot In New Jersey Could Cost You A Fine

By: Brooke Holzhauer | NJ State House News Service

Governor Murphy signed a bill into law Nov. 13 aimed at keeping electric vehicle charging spaces clear of gas-powered cars – and even EVs that aren’t charging. 

WHAT THE LAW SAYS: The law is part of the state’s push to support EV adoption and improve charging accessibility. The new law levies a $55 fine for first offense, a $100 fine for second offense, and a $200 fine for the third and each subsequent offense, according to the bill. The law is effective immediately. The legislation, A3035, was sponsored by Democratic Senators Patrick J. Diegnan, representing Middlesex County, Senator Bob Smith,representing Middlesex and Somerset Counties, and Democrat Representatives Clinton Calabrese from Bergen County and Shanique Speight from Essex County 

WHY IT MATTERS: 

• EV drivers frequently report “ICEing” – when gas-powered vehicles block charging spots.
• The ability to fine or tow vehicles blocking spots previously depended on local ordinances, proper signage, and willingness of property owners or local security to enforce rules.
• EV registrations in New Jersey have exceeded 250,000 per a recent New Jersey Economic Development Authority press release. 
• The state continues to expand EV charging infrastructure, but access remains an issue.

HOW THE NEW LAW WORKS:

• Prohibits non-EVs from parking in designated EV spots unless specifically allowed by posted signs.
• Bans EVs from occupying a charging space unless they are actively charging their vehicle.
• Requires clear signage marking EV-only charging spots to ensure enforcement.
• Allows municipalities to enforce violations, including fines and towing.

WHAT OFFICIALS SAY:

• The bill’s sponsors note that “parking in an electric vehicle charging location is equivalent to blocking gas pumps, except that there are far more gas stations than electric vehicle charging locations.” 
• The sponsors say the bill will allow law enforcement to effectively penalize violators and that clear signage will help avoid confusion. 

WHERE NJ STANDS ON EV CHARGING:

• The New Jersey Economic Development Authority approved a $50 million “Take Charge” program to support charging infrastructure for private commercial fleets, according to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. 
• By December 31, 2025, the state aims for at least 400 direct current fast chargers and 1,000 Level 2 chargers at a minimum of 200 locations, according to the United States Department of Energy.
• PSE&G offers an EV Charging Program, which includes incentives and rebates for charging installations, as well as some charging discounts. 

WHAT’S NEXT:

• Local police and parking authorities will now be responsible for issuing citations.
• Expect more municipal signage updates over the next year as towns bring their ordinances into compliance.