Only electric vehicles can be parked in a charging area

When you’re looking for a place to park your car, seeing a prime spot that’s empty does not always mean that the parking gods are smiling on you. Sometimes it’s because there’s actually a hydrant or hard-to-see driveway ramp; other times it’s a spot reserved for a special use. Most drivers understand that one cannot legally park in a handicapped spot without a permit, for example.

A newer restriction is listed in the vehicle and traffic law as 1202(a)(1)l: no parking a non-electric vehicle in an electric charging station. It mucks up the works for drivers who need to juice their cars, and while it doesn’t have any points, it does carry a fine of as much as $175 for a first offense.

Being aware of the law is the best defense, but if you got caught leaving your car where it doesn’t belong, upload your traffic ticket here for a free consultation.