At Regular Planning Commission’s Long Range Planning Projects Subcommittee meeting on Thursday, July 18, 2024, the subcommittee will is set to review a proposed zone text amendment aimed at expediting the approval process for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in West Hollywood. This initiative aligns with Assembly Bill 970 (AB 970) and aims to designate EV Charging Sites as a primary use in the city’s zoning code.
Background and Analysis
In December 2021, the City of West Hollywood adopted its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, targeting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation to climate change impacts. This plan emphasizes expanding publicly accessible EV charging infrastructure. California’s broader environmental goals also support this shift, with the California Air Resources Board mandating that 35% of all light-duty vehicles sold in the state by 2026 must be zero-emission, escalating to a complete phase-out of gasoline-only vehicles by 2035.
EVs are recognized as a crucial technology for reducing tailpipe emissions, which are a significant source of air pollution in the Los Angeles basin. EVs boast a carbon footprint between 30% and 80% smaller than internal combustion engine vehicles over their lifecycle, which includes manufacturing, transportation, and fuel production.
Rising Demand and Infrastructure Challenges
The demand for EVs in Los Angeles County has surged dramatically over the past five years. Registrations of zero-emission vehicles increased from 85,094 in 2017 to 282,343 in 2022. However, the existing EV charging infrastructure is insufficient to meet this growing demand. By the end of 2023, Los Angeles County had only 10,516 public EV chargers, roughly one charger for every 27 EVs.
To address these challenges, California enacted AB 1236 in 2015 and AB 970 in 2021. These laws mandate streamlined permitting processes for EV charging stations, including expedited timelines and administrative approval procedures to facilitate the rapid deployment of necessary infrastructure.
State Requirements and Local Compliance
AB 1236 and AB 970 require cities and counties to adopt streamlined permitting procedures, including specific timeline requirements for application review and approval. West Hollywood’s current municipal code partially fulfills these requirements but lacks certain elements such as defined zones for EV Charging Sites as a primary use and specified timelines for permit approval.
Proposed Amendments
The proposed Zone Text Amendment (ZTA) includes the following key changes:
Designation of two new primary land uses in the Municipal Code, permitted in the CC/SSP and CA zones:
- Electric Vehicle Charging Site, no Direct Current Charging
- Electric Vehicle Charging Site, with Direct Current Charging
- Addition of Section 19.36.123 to Municipal Code Chapter 19.36, outlining regulations for
- Charging Sites as required by state law.
- Updates to definitions of terms related to EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs).
- Other minor modifications to ensure compliance with state laws.
Additional Considerations
Staff has identified a need for further policy development regarding EV Service Stations and Lounges, an emerging land use category similar to traditional gas stations but focused on EV charging. Guidance is sought on whether and how to incorporate these facilities into the city’s zoning regulations.
Conclusion
The proposed amendments aim to align West Hollywood’s municipal code with state requirements, facilitating the expansion of EV charging infrastructure. Feedback is requested on zoning districts for EV Charging Sites and the potential inclusion of EV Service Stations and Lounges as primary uses.
The Planning Commission’s subcommittee will discuss these amendments and seek input on the proposed changes, ensuring West Hollywood continues to lead in climate action and sustainable transportation infrastructure.