Not Recommended for DIY for hardwired or dedicated circuit installations due to high voltage, safety risks, and strict code compliance requirements. Limited DIY feasibility for Level 1 chargers plugging into existing, appropriately rated receptacles.
Involves significant electrical work, potential service capacity upgrades, adherence to multiple code articles (NEC Article 625), and requires professional installation and multiple inspections.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Permitting and General Requirements
3 Rules
Obtain all necessary permits from your local municipality prior to commencing any work. Work must pass required inspections.
Your local building department requirements.
All installations must comply with local zoning ordinances regarding placement, setbacks, and visual impact.
Local zoning code.
All electrical work must be performed by or under the direct supervision of an Illinois-licensed electrician.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Electrical System Design and Installation (2023 NEC)
11 Rules
Perform a comprehensive load calculation to ensure the existing electrical service can safely accommodate the additional demand of the EV charger without requiring an upgrade.
NEC 220.82 or 220.83 (as applicable) and Article 625.
Provide appropriately sized overcurrent protection (circuit breaker or fuse) for the EVSE branch circuit.
NEC 240.4, 240.6, 625.41.
Conductors must be sized for 125% of the continuous current rating of the EVSE.
NEC 210.19(A)(1), 625.40.
Install a readily accessible means of disconnect for the EVSE.
NEC 625.43.
Provide ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) protection for all EVSE and associated receptacles at dwelling units.
NEC 625.54, 625.56(A) and 625.56(B).
Wiring methods and materials must be suitable for the environment (e.g., wet locations for outdoor installations).
NEC Chapter 3 (e.g., 300.9 for damp/wet locations, 334.12 for non-metallic-sheathed cable restrictions).
Underground wiring for outdoor installations shall be installed at a minimum depth of 42 inches below grade to mitigate frost heave damage common in DuPage County, and in appropriate raceway.
NEC 300.5 and local DuPage County climate standards.
Outdoor electrical enclosures and equipment (including EVSE) must be listed and marked for wet locations.
NEC 110.11, 314.15, 625.32.
Maintain required working clearances around electrical panels and the EVSE.
NEC 110.26.
All EVSE must be listed and labeled by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
NEC 625.30.
Clearly identify and label the EVSE circuit at the service panel.
NEC 110.22.
Structural and Mechanical Considerations (2024 IRC)
3 Rules
EVSE and associated electrical equipment must be securely mounted in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and capable of supporting the dead and live loads.
2024 IRC R301.1 (General design requirements).
Ensure proper clearances are maintained from combustible materials as required by equipment listings or local fire codes.
2024 IRC R302.1.
Provide protection against physical damage for outdoor conduits, cables, and equipment.
2024 IRC R301.1, NEC 300.5(D).
Plumbing Code Considerations (Illinois Plumbing Code)
3 Rules
Trenching for underground electrical conduits must not compromise the integrity or required separation distances of existing water service lines, sanitary sewer lines, or stormwater drainage systems.
Illinois Plumbing Code (89 IL Admin. Code 890.1200, 890.1210 for separation distances).
Protection of potable water supply from potential contamination during all phases of construction, especially when disturbing soil near water mains or service lines.
Illinois Plumbing Code (89 IL Admin. Code 890.1130).
While direct plumbing connections are rare for EV chargers, any related site work that introduces new drainage, waste, or vent piping, or alters existing systems, must adhere to all applicable plumbing codes.
Illinois Plumbing Code (89 IL Admin. Code 890.100).
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