San Francisco has launched a new citywide program that allows residents to nominate locations for curbside electric vehicle (EV) chargers. The initiative aims to make EV charging more accessible, especially for those living in apartments or condos without private parking.
A New Approach to Public EV Charging
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) is now accepting applications from charging operators as part of its citywide curbside EV charging program. Residents can use the ChargeUp SF map to suggest streets, public facilities, and other sites where they would like to see chargers installed.
This approach is designed to address the needs of city dwellers who do not have access to a garage or driveway. According to San Francisco Environment Department director Tyrone Jue, ‘For San Franciscans without a garage or driveway, access to charging can determine whether going electric is even practical.’
How the Program Works
Charging companies interested in participating must first qualify for an operator permit. Once approved, they can scout potential locations but must obtain a separate permit for each site. The SFMTA has published detailed requirements covering equipment, maintenance, data reporting, and site selection.
The city has set a target of installing 100 curbside EV charging stations by 2030.
From Pilot to Citywide Rollout
San Francisco began its curbside charging pilot in 2025, with the first two chargers installed at 55 Fillmore Street in the Duboce Triangle. The pilot included three companies: it’s electric, Urban EV, and Voltpost.
The pilot phase helped the city evaluate demand, utility connections, and charger designs, as well as the importance of neighborhood outreach. The new program builds on these lessons, establishing a permanent process for expanding public charging infrastructure.
Competitor Comparison
Other major cities, such as Los Angeles and New York, have also launched curbside EV charging initiatives, but San Francisco’s program stands out for its resident-driven site nomination process. This approach could serve as a model for other urban areas looking to expand public charging access.
Regional Availability
The program is currently available only within San Francisco. Residents and charging companies operating in the city are eligible to participate in the nomination and permitting process.
Why this matters
Expanding curbside EV charging is critical for increasing electric vehicle adoption in dense urban environments. By allowing residents to nominate charger locations, San Francisco is addressing a key barrier for those without private parking.
This initiative also supports the city’s broader goals of reducing transportation-related emissions and making EV ownership more practical for a wider range of residents.
What this means for buyers
San Francisco residents considering an EV now have more input into where public chargers are installed, potentially making ownership more convenient. Buyers should monitor the ChargeUp SF map and participate in the nomination process to ensure chargers are placed where they are most needed.
Those living in other regions may want to advocate for similar programs in their own cities to improve public charging access.
Key Specs
- Program Launch Year: 2026
- Target Number of Curbside Chargers by 2030: 100
- Pilot Launch Date: April 2025
- First Pilot Location: 55 Fillmore Street, Duboce Triangle
- Participating Pilot Companies: it’s electric, Urban EV, Voltpost
- Eligibility: San Francisco residents and qualified charging operators
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, axios.com, sfmta.com, sfexaminer.com
