San Francisco has officially launched a citywide program for curbside electric vehicle charging. The initiative allows charging operators to apply for permits to install public infrastructure across various neighborhoods. The city aims to build a reliable network to support residents living in apartments or condos who lack private garages or driveways.
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) now manages the application process for operators. Companies must obtain a separate permit for every individual site. The city has released a comprehensive package detailing requirements for equipment, maintenance, data reporting, and site selection to ensure consistent standards throughout the rollout.
Residents can participate in the process through the new ChargeUp SF map. This tool allows citizens to nominate specific streets and public facilities for potential charger installations. This step follows a pilot program initiated in 2025, which involved companies such as it’s electric, Urban EV, and Voltpost to test demand and site feasibility.
The initial testing phase began in April 2025 with the activation of two chargers at 55 Fillmore Street in the Duboce Triangle. The city concluded that neighborhood consultation is a critical component of the installation process. The full deployment of the new network is expected to take several years as operators coordinate with utilities and local communities.