In a significant development for electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Haryana, the state government has moved to resolve growing concerns over the installation of private EV chargers in residential building basements.
The issue gained prominence recently when the Gurugram Fire Department flagged EV charging points installed in basement parking areas as a potential fire hazard. In one high-profile case involving a premium residential society in Sector 81, the fire department withheld the renewal of the Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC), citing that EV chargers in basements were “not permissible.” Following this, several Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) issued notices to EV owners, directing them to remove their chargers within short deadlines (as little as 7 days) to avoid complications with fire safety clearances.
This created widespread anxiety among EV owners in high-rise societies across Gurugram and other parts of Haryana, with many fearing that the lack of convenient home charging could discourage EV purchases and undermine the state’s push toward cleaner mobility.
In response to the growing concerns and feedback from the EV community, the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP), Haryana, has issued draft amendments to the Haryana Building Code, 2017. The proposed changes explicitly permit the installation of Electric Charging Spots (ECS) in basements and stilt parking areas, provided they adhere to suitable fire safety norms.
The draft notification states: “The electric charging spots (ECS) may be provided in basement and/or stilt floors subject to adherence to suitable fire safety norms.
”Additionally, the amendments aim to make EV infrastructure mandatory in new developments:
- At least 1 EV charging point per 5 parking slots in residential buildings.
- At least 1 EV charging point per 3 parking slots in commercial buildings.
- All parking spaces must be made EV-ready with necessary conduits and wiring for future installations.
Parallel to the DTCP move, the Haryana Fire and Emergency Services department has also provided interim relief. It has clarified that fire safety certificates or renewals will not be denied solely due to the presence of EV chargers in basements until comprehensive fire safety guidelines for EV charging are formally notified. This has eased immediate pressure on societies and prevented arbitrary removal orders in the interim period
Fire departments have highlighted legitimate safety issues with basement charging, including:
- Poor ventilation in enclosed spaces.
- Potential challenges in fire-fighting access.
- Higher electrical loads and risks associated with lithium-ion battery fires.
However, with proper safety measures — such as fire-resistant installations, adequate ventilation, smoke detection, and compliance with relevant standards — these risks can be effectively mitigated. The government’s latest stance reflects a balanced approach: supporting EV growth while prioritizing resident safety.
This development is being viewed as a major relief for thousands of EV owners in Haryana. Once the guidelines are finalized and the draft is notified:
- RWAs will have clearer rules and will no longer be able to arbitrarily ban chargers.
- Home charging will become more convenient and standardized.
- New residential and commercial projects will be future-ready for the EV transition.
EV enthusiasts and industry observers have welcomed the move, noting that convenient home charging is critical for mass EV adoption, especially in urban areas where public charging infrastructure is still evolving.The final notification and detailed fire safety guidelines from the Fire Department are expected soon. In the meantime, EV owners are advised to consult their RWAs and ensure installations follow best safety practices.
