Falcon Heights, MN

• Created an online permitting checklist, increasing transparency for community members and solar installers
• Reviewed local zoning codes and identified restrictions that intentionally or unintentionally prohibit solar PV development

Falcon Heights, Minnesota was one of the first Charging Smart designees in the U.S. This municipality undertook measures to improve planning and zoning practices, permitting and inspections, and other efforts to make it easier and more affordable to install EV charging infrastructure.

• Acknowledged priority for market transformation
• Addressed equity issues and set equity goals
• Developed goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based surrounding EV actions
• Provided an online process for permit submission and approval
• Developed EVSE permitting checklists
• Permitted Level 2 chargers as an accessory use to parking lots in all zoning districts
• Allowed all EVSE parking stalls to count towards minimum parking requirements
• Established accessibility guidelines for EV enabled parking stalls
• Co-developed incentives for installing residential-managed charging
• Co-created renewable energy EV programs or incentives for residents
• Hosted informational booths at city and community gatherings
• Created a specific page on the city website that includes information about EVs
• Promoted the EV and EV + renewable energy programs the city and utilities offer to residents
• Linked to the regulatory and permitting processes checklists
• Promoted state and federal incentives