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Electric Vehicle & EV Charger Installation
Electric Vehicle Information
The City of Rockford is committed to advancing Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure to benefit both residents and businesses. The City has taken significant steps to streamline the installation process and reduce barriers to EV charging station installation for both residential and commercial applications.
Rockford Takes Steps to Become EV Ready!
The City of Rockford is preparing for the expected increase in electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging stations (EVCS) by participating in the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus’ EV Readiness Program and working towards achieving bronze designation. We are reducing barriers to EV infrastructure investment and making it easier for residents and businesses to install EV charging stations . As part of this process the City of Rockford will be pulling together information from many sources to help you learn about EVs and EV charging stations, decide if they are right for you, and make the permitting and installation process easier by updating the permit process and zoning codes.
Our community’s EV readiness commitment and goals can be found in our EV Readiness Letter of Commitment.
These updates will work to improve access to cleaner transportation options, improve the regions environmental resilience and create healthier futures for our residents.
EV Charger Permitting, Installation and Inspection Process
EV Permitting Process
The city requires a permit for the installation of EV Chargers for both residential and commercial applications. Additionally, a completed Electric Vehicle Charger Application Checklist should be completed before submitting a permit application. Standard permitting fees apply. A copy of the electrician’s license number is required on the permit form.
To apply ONLINE first register by creating an Account Here
- Link to Electrical Permit Application
- Multi-family and Commercial applicants will also need to fill out a Building Permit Application for Commercial, Industrial or Multi-Family Unit.
- Link to additional Permit information and Printable Permit Versions
EV Charger Installation
Use a Licensed Electrician and install all materials, devices, fittings, and equipment for the EVCS and all associated work shall be installed in strict accordance with all of the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Inspection Process
The City of Rockford requires inspections for various construction and renovation projects to ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards.
Online Scheduling: Inspections can be scheduled through Rockford's online permitting system. Access the system via the city's official website and follow the prompts to schedule your inspection.
Phone Scheduling: If online access isn't available, inspections can be scheduled by calling the Building Department at 779-348-7158.
Rough Inspection – If any work will be concealed inside walls, ceilings or underground, then an inspection is required before the work is covered.
Final Inspection – Once the work has been completed, the applicant or contractor should call the Building Department as soon as possible for a final inspection. Final inspection includes building, and electrical inspections.
For EV Owners
- Register your EV with ComEd to help the utility assess your electric service needs.
- The City recommends using an electrician who is registered with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). To find an EV charging station installer who is registered with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) follow the link above.
Parking Regulations at EV Charging Stations
A person may park only an electric vehicle in an electric vehicle charging station space designated for use by electric vehicles. Unauthorized use of EV-only parking by non-EVs at both public and private properties is prohibited.
Illinois Vehicle Code (ILCS 625 ILCS 5/11-1308)
Rebates and Incentives
- Federal Tax Credit for Vehicles: Use the federal government’s federal tax credit tool to learn about the credit amount available for various EV makes and models. The maximum credit is $7,500 for new vehicles and up to $4,000 for used vehicles.
- New and Used Clean Vehicle Tax Credits, Energy Saver webpage – This Department of Energy webpage describes the new and previously owned clean vehicle tax credits. The page includes a checklist to determine if a vehicle is eligible for either credit. You may also want to contact a tax professional.
- Illinois EV Rebate Program: Residents may apply for a rebate on a new or used all-electric vehicle, when a rebate cycle is open. Purchasers must apply for the rebate during an open rebate cycle and within 90 days of vehicle purchase.
- Federal Tax Credit for EV Charging Equipment – Residents who purchase qualified residential charging equipment may receive a tax credit of 30% of the cost, up to $1,000. Find out more at the above website, or consult a tax professional.
- ComEd residential rebates for EV chargers – ComEd is offering rebates for the purchase and installation of new residential Level 2 chargers.
- ComEd business and public sector rebates and services – ComEd is offering rebates on EVs and on make-ready infrastructure for business and public sector customers, as well as free fleet electrification assessments. More details are available at ComEd.com/Clean.
- Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit – Businesses and tax-exempt organizations that purchase an EV may receive a tax credit of up to $7,500 for vehicles under 14,000 pounds and up to $40,000 for vehicles over that weight.