HF1139

Purpose

• Update the State Building Code to promote electric vehicle (EV) charging readiness in new buildings with onsite parking.
• Extend requirements so that new commercial, multifamily, and residential buildings with onsite parking must plan for EV charging infrastructure.

Main Provisions

• This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to create a new EV charging section within the State Building Code (Electric vehicle charging).
• It requires a minimum number of:
  • electric vehicle ready spaces (spaces prepared for future charging),
  • electric vehicle capable spaces (spaces with the wiring/conduits to support charging),
  • electric vehicle charging stations (actual chargers) either within or adjacent to new commercial and multifamily structures and all new residential buildings that provide onsite parking facilities.
• Residential buildings with fewer than four dwelling units are exempt from these requirements.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Adds a new mandate to the State Building Code governing EV infrastructure in new construction.
• Specifically amends Minnesota Statutes 2024 section 326B.106 subdivision 16 to require EV readiness and charging facilities in most newly built structures with onsite parking.

Exemption

• Homes with fewer than four dwelling units are exempt from the EV infrastructure requirements.

Implementation Notes

• The exact minimum numbers for ready, capable, and charging spaces are not specified in the excerpt and would be defined within the Building Code updates or related provisions.
• Applies to new construction; does not mandate retrofits for existing buildings.

Potential Impacts

• Short-term construction costs for developers and builders.
• Improved access to EV charging, supporting increased EV adoption.
• Possible needs for electrical capacity planning and infrastructure upgrades in new developments.

Relevant Terms - electric vehicle charging stations - electric vehicle ready spaces - electric vehicle capable spaces - EV charging infrastructure - State Building Code - Minnesota Statutes 326B.106 (subdivision 16) - new commercial structures - new multifamily structures - new residential buildings with onsite parking - exemption (fewer than four dwelling units) - onsite parking facilities