Charging your electric vehicle
Reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality is a high priority for us. We want to improve the network of electric vehicle charging points available for the public to use across Dorset.
The Energy Savings Trust provides practical vehicle charging advice. We recommend downloading the Charging Best Practice Guide.
The Go Ultra Low campaign provides further facts and information about switching to an electric vehicle.
Find a charging point
Zap Map shows the locations of public off-street charging points in Dorset.
You can find rapid chargers in the following towns:
Charges for electricity and parking may apply at these sites.
We’re currently carrying out feasibility work to understand which Dorset Council car parks are suitable to have electric vehicle charging points. Installation will begin this summer (2020).
Visit the BCP website for rapid charger locations in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole council area.
Report a problem
Get in touch with the operator using the contact details displayed on the charge point. Check Zap Map to find an alternative charge point nearby.
On-street charging
We haven't installed any on street charging points. We are considering how best to balance the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors, while maintaining a safe and accessible network of footways.
The current law does not give residents an unrestricted right to charge vehicles which are parked on the street outside a property. Currently our advice is not to charge an electric vehicle by running a cable across the public highway, including the use of a cable protector or cable ramp. Cables across the path, or hanging overhead are a hazard, and it is an offence under The Highways Act 1980 to place wires or other apparatus across a path that are likely to pose a danger to the public. If someone were to trip up and injure themselves, then you could be prosecuted and there may also be liability under civil law.
Information for town and parish councils
Town and parish councils in Dorset are eligible to sign up to the Central Southern Framework agreement. This offers the public sector and Trusts a 'one stop shop' for electric vehicle charging point delivery and management.
For more information contact energy@hants.gov.uk.
Get in touch
You can email us with queries about electric charging points in Dorset at ElectricVehicles@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.