EV Parking Only Sign: When You Need Signs vs Pavement Stencils (2025 Compliance Guide)

Why EV Parking Only Sign Rules Matter in 2025

EV parking only sign rules are evolving quickly. This 2025 guide explains when you must use a vertical sign, when a pavement stencil is acceptable, and when both are required. EV parking only sign rules: learn when to use signs vs stencils for 2025 compliance. Avoid fines with clear guidance, specs, and examples and download the checklist. With more states writing specific provisions for EV charging spaces, clear markings prevent confusion, reduce enforcement disputes, and keep your investment in EV infrastructure compliant and safe.

Property owners, facility managers, and striping contractors all share the same challenge. You need to mark EV stalls so drivers understand who can park, when charging is required, and where accessible charging is located. The fastest way to do that is a consistent combination of an EV parking only sign and a pavement stencil that drivers can see at a glance. This article breaks down current norms, common state requirements, ADA considerations, typical dimensions and colors, and easy steps to install markings that last.

Signs vs Stencils: A Quick Decision Guide

Use this simple rule of thumb. If access control or enforcement is needed, use a vertical EV parking only sign. If you want immediate visibility on the pavement, add a stencil. Most jurisdictions in 2025 expect both a sign and a pavement marking for EV-only stalls. Some cities write it explicitly into code. Others follow standard parking control practices that treat EV-only spaces similar to handicapped or restricted stalls. When in doubt, pair the two.

• Use vertical signs to establish the rule. Signs communicate restrictions like “EV Charging Only,” “While Charging,” time limits, and tow-away warnings. They also help enforcement and are easy to photograph for evidence.

• Use pavement stencils to reinforce the rule on the ground. Pavement markings reduce confusion and improve compliance, especially in busy lots. Stencils also guide drivers into the correct space.

• Use both when you have public access, shared parking, or high turnover. This is the most common 2025-compliant approach.

National Rules You Should Know in 2025

There is no single national law that covers every detail of EV parking markings, but several standards influence best practice and are often referenced in local ordinances.

• MUTCD guidance for parking control signs. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices is widely followed for sign design, reflectivity, mounting height, and placement. It informs how EV parking only sign installations should look and function.

• ADA Standards and the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. These do not specify EV-only signs directly but set requirements for accessible parking, accessible routes, slopes, and clear ground space. Many cities now require at least one accessible EV charging stall with signs and pavement markings.

• International Fire Code and electrical codes. These focus on equipment installation, clearances, and safety near EV charging equipment. Some jurisdictions add sign language to ensure access for emergency responders.

Local authority rules take priority. Always check your city, county, or state code for exact wording, penalties, and any unique color requirements for EV pavement markings.

Typical State and Local Requirements

While details vary, most programs share similar expectations. An EV parking only sign is posted at each stall or at the head of the stall, and a stencil or painted legend is placed within the stall. A time limit or “while charging” condition is common. Some states require specific color blocks or borders to distinguish EV-only spaces.

• Vertical sign language. You will often see “EV Charging Only,” “Parking for Electric Vehicle Charging Only,” or “EV Only While Charging.” Many cities require a tow-away notice for unauthorized vehicles.

• Pavement legend. A large “EV,” “EV ONLY,” or a charging plug icon is common. Some codes specify letters at least 12 inches high. In high-traffic lots, 24 to 48 inches is preferred for visibility.

• Color. White letters on green, or a green stall with white legend, is common. Some regions use a green rectangle or bar with the white EV symbol. Accessible EV stalls typically use blue background with the wheelchair symbol plus EV text.

• Quantity. Mix of dedicated Level 2 and DC fast-charging stalls may require different signs, especially if dwell times differ.

ADA-Compliant EV Charging Spaces

ADA requirements apply to accessible routes and space dimensions, and more jurisdictions now specify a minimum number of accessible EV stalls. Most accessible EV stalls must include both the international symbol of accessibility and clear EV charging identification.

• Accessible EV sign. Post the standard accessibility sign at proper height, plus an EV parking only sign that clarifies the stall is for charging. If “van accessible,” include the van designation.

• Pavement markings. Mark the accessibility symbol on the pavement and add “EV” or a charging icon to make the stall purpose clear.

• Routes and controls. Ensure an accessible path from stall to building or sidewalk, and that charging controls are within reach ranges and on level ground.

Specifications: Sizes, Colors, and Materials

Sign Size and Materials

The most common EV parking only sign size for on-site parking lots is 12 inches by 18 inches. Some locations with wider aisles or higher speed approaches use 18 inches by 24 inches for greater legibility. Reflective sheeting should meet or exceed MUTCD guidance. Type I engineer grade is a baseline, while Type IV or higher is recommended for superior visibility in low light.

• Size: 12 by 18 inches for most lots, 18 by 24 inches for large facilities.

• Reflectivity: Engineer grade or better. Consider higher performance sheeting for longevity.

• Color: Green and white remain the most recognizable combination for EV rules, with black copy sometimes permitted.

Sign Mounting Heights and Placement

Follow standard parking control practice when placing an EV parking only sign. Use these common benchmarks.

• Height: 7 feet from the bottom of the sign to the walking surface when the sign is located along a sidewalk or pedestrian path. In other lot areas away from sidewalks, 5 feet is common.

• Offset: Align with the center of the stall or at the head of the stall so the sign clearly applies to that space.

• Poles and hardware: Use weather-resistant posts and tamper-resistant fasteners. Ensure the sign face is perpendicular to the approach for readability.

Pavement Stencil Sizes and Paint

Pavement stencils should be large, readable, and durable. For typical lots, letters 24 inches tall or larger provide strong visibility. For large facilities or multi-level garages, 36 to 48 inch legends or a bold plug icon are effective.

• Common sizes: 24 inch, 36 inch, or 48 inch letters. Large plug symbols are often 36 to 72 inches wide.

• Paint: Use high-quality traffic paint or durable marking products. Consider waterborne traffic paint, MMA, or thermoplastic depending on climate and maintenance cycles.

• Colors: White legend on green field, or white on asphalt with a green bar or box, as allowed by local code.

Stencil Materials

1-800-Stencil manufactures durable, reusable stencils in Low-Density Polyethylene and Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene. These plastics resist warping and cracking, clean up easily, and maintain crisp edges over many uses.

• LDPE: Flexible and cost-effective. Typical thicknesses include 1/16 inch and 1/8 inch.

• UHMW: Extremely tough and long-lasting. Great for frequent projects and high-volume contractors.

Installation Steps for Signs and Stencils

Installing EV Parking Only Signs

1. Confirm wording. Verify the exact message required by your jurisdiction, including time limits or tow-away notice.

2. Measure heights. Mark 7 feet to the bottom of the sign when placed along a sidewalk. Use 5 feet minimum in non-pedestrian areas if allowed.

3. Set the post. Use a breakaway post or a standard u-channel. Ensure vertical plumb and secure footing.

4. Mount the sign. Face the sign toward the approach to the stall. Add secondary plates for time limits or “While Charging.”

5. Take photos. Document the installation for compliance records and enforcement.

Applying EV Pavement Stencils

1. Clean and dry. Sweep and blow off dust and debris. Ensure the surface is dry.

2. Layout. Center the stencil at the head or mid-stall. Use tape or weights to hold it flat.

3. Prime if needed. On old asphalt or concrete, a primer can improve adhesion.

4. Apply paint. Spray or roll high-quality traffic paint. Use light, even coats to minimize bleed.

5. Lift carefully. Remove the stencil once tack-free. Touch up edges if necessary.

6. Add a green field. If your code calls for a green box or bar, mask, paint the field, then reapply the stencil legend in white.

Maintenance and Lifecycle Costs

Signs last many years when mounted correctly, especially with high-performance reflective sheeting. Pavement markings vary with traffic, climate, and snow operations. Expect to refresh paint every 1 to 3 years in most climates, sooner in snowy regions where plows wear markings faster.

• Signs: Inspect yearly for damage, graffiti, or fading. Replace if reflectivity is compromised.

• Stencils: Re-stripe as needed based on wear. Using a reusable LDPE or UHMW stencil lowers long-term cost for maintenance cycles.

• Paint choice: Premium pavement coatings reduce frequency of re-striping, which saves labor and downtime.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Fines

• Sign without stencil in busy lots. Drivers miss the rule, enforcement gets harder, and citations may be disputed.

• Stencil without sign for restricted stalls. Many jurisdictions require a posted EV parking only sign to enforce towing or fines.

• Incorrect ADA markings for accessible EV spaces. You must combine accessibility symbols with EV identification and keep routes compliant.

• Wrong colors or wording. Some codes specify exact phrases. Always check local rules before you order.

• Improper mounting height. Too low or blocked by vehicles or landscaping reduces sign visibility and can be flagged by inspectors.

Real-World Scenarios

Retail Lot With Four Level 2 Chargers

Install one EV parking only sign per stall at the head of each space, 7 feet to the bottom of the sign along the sidewalk. Add a large EV stencil in white on a green box for each stall. If local code requires time limits, add a secondary plate such as “2 Hour Limit While Charging.”

Corporate Campus Garage

Use larger 18 by 24 inch signs in high-traffic areas for legibility at a distance. Add 36 to 48 inch EV symbols on the deck surface. For accessible EV stalls, combine the accessibility symbol with the EV legend and ensure a compliant route from stall to elevator lobby.

Municipal Lot With Enforced Tow Policy

Post an EV parking only sign that includes “Tow Away Zone” or a separate tow-authority plate. Paint bold EV legends in each stall so enforcement officers can document violations clearly and consistently.

About 1-800-Stencil and How We Help

1-800-Stencil is a leading supplier of high-quality pavement marking stencils based in Alsip, Illinois. We specialize in pre-made and custom stencils for parking lots, roads, highways, bike lanes, crosswalks, airport runways, and industrial safety markings. Our stencils are crafted from durable LDPE and UHMW materials for long life, crisp lines, and easy cleanup. Alphabet and number kits, arrow stencils, handicap symbols, retail patterns for national chains, DOT stencils, wording like “NO PARKING,” and fully custom designs are available to fit any project scope.

1-800-Stencil was acquired by RAE Products & Chemicals Corporation, which means you can pair our stencils with RAE’s high-performance pavement marking paints and materials. This combination gives contractors and facility managers a complete solution for EV parking only sign projects and pavement markings, from the stencil to the paint system that keeps lines visible longer. When you need an EV word legend, a charging plug icon, or an ADA EV combo symbol sized to your local code, we can deliver fast.

Have a unique layout or a city-mandated icon? Our custom team will produce precise, reusable stencils tailored to your specs. Call 1-800-STENCIL or email info@1800stencil.com to discuss your project.

Ordering Tips and Lead Times

• Confirm your wording and sizes first. Send any city code excerpts to ensure the stencil matches local requirements.

• Choose material based on frequency. Select LDPE for occasional use or UHMW for repeated, long-term projects.

• Bundle items. Order EV legends, accessibility symbols, arrows, and numbers together to match your complete plan.

• Plan for paint. Ask about RAE Products paint systems that pair with your stencil choice and climate conditions.

• Lead times. Stock EV stencils typically ship quickly. Custom stencils are produced to order. Provide deadlines up front to keep your schedule on track.

2025 EV Parking Only Checklist

Use this checklist to prepare a compliant, clear installation. You can also contact 1-800-Stencil to request a downloadable PDF version.

1. Confirm local code language for EV stalls. Identify if “while charging,” time limits, or towing language is required.

2. Determine which stalls are accessible EV. Plan for accessibility symbols plus EV identification and correct aisle widths.

3. Select sign size and reflectivity. 12 by 18 inches for most lots. Choose reflective sheeting that meets or exceeds your standard.

4. Set mounting heights. Use 7 feet to the bottom of the sign along pedestrian routes, 5 feet elsewhere if permitted.

5. Choose pavement stencil sizes. Select 24 inch, 36 inch, or 48 inch letters or a large plug icon for high visibility.

6. Confirm color scheme. White legend on green field is common. Accessible EV typically uses blue background for the ADA symbol.

7. Plan for enforcement. Add any tow-away or time-limit plates. Place signs where they can be photographed for evidence.

8. Prepare the surface. Clean, dry, and prime if needed before painting.

9. Use quality paint. Pair 1-800-Stencil products with RAE Products paints for durability.

10. Document the installation. Take photos and keep records for inspectors and property managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need both an EV parking only sign and a stencil?

In most public or shared lots, yes. Many jurisdictions either require both or expect both so the rule is clear from a distance and on the ground. Always verify your local code.

What should the sign say?

Common wording includes “EV Charging Only” or “Parking for Electric Vehicle Charging Only.” If a time limit applies, add a secondary plate such as “While Charging” or “2 Hour Limit.”

What stencil size is best?

Choose 24 inch letters for small lots. Use 36 to 48 inch letters or a large plug icon in larger facilities for stronger visibility.

What colors are typical?

White letters on green are common for EV markings. Accessible EV stalls typically combine the ADA blue symbol with clear EV wording. Follow local color rules.

How high should I mount the sign?

Use 7 feet to the bottom of the sign when mounted along a sidewalk. In other areas, 5 feet is common if allowed.

Can I order custom EV icons or wording?

Yes. 1-800-Stencil produces custom LDPE and UHMW stencils to match city specifications, corporate branding, or unique layouts.

Get Started With 1-800-Stencil

Choosing the right combination of an EV parking only sign and a pavement stencil is the simplest way to meet 2025 standards and avoid unnecessary fines. Whether you manage a retail center, a corporate campus, a hospital, or a municipal lot, you will benefit from clear, durable markings that drivers understand immediately. 1-800-Stencil supplies the EV legends, accessibility symbols, arrows, numbers, and custom designs you need. With our integration into RAE Products & Chemicals Corporation, you can also pair your stencil with proven traffic paints for long-lasting results. Call 1-800-STENCIL or email info@1800stencil.com to request a quote or the downloadable checklist. Our team will help you confirm wording, sizes, and materials so your EV spaces are ready for 2025 and beyond.