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An Ordinance Amending the Municipal Code to Allow Domestic Electric Vehicles in Higher Weight Classes to Park on Residential Streets
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An Ordinance Amending the Municipal Code to Allow Domestic Electric Vehicles in Higher Weight Classes to Park on Residential Streets
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Introduction
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This item seeks approval of an ordinance amendment to the Village's Municipal Code to allow domestic electric vehicles (EVs) to park on residential streets that currently exceed the allowable threshold, such as SUVs and trucks.
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Recommended Action
Staff recommend that the Village Board adopt an ordinance amending Section 15-1-19: Miscellaneous Parking Offenses, of the Municipal Code to include domestic electric vehicles exceeding current weight limits, thereby ensuring equitable access and compliance for EV owners.
Prior Board Action
* The Village Board has adopted multiple sustainability and climate-related policies, including EV infrastructure expansion and fleet electrification goals.
* There is no prior Board action specific to EV vehicle weight-class inclusion.
Background
The Village's Municipal Code currently restricts certain vehicle weight classes from residential parking and license eligibility. However, many EV models manufactured today, including SUVs and trucks, exceed traditional weight thresholds due to battery configurations. As a result, residents and visitors who purchase EVs may unintentionally fall out of compliance or be discouraged from EV adoption altogether. This would allow these types of vehicles to park on-street with proper permitting and not be subject to a ticket.
This amendment directly supports the Village's Environmental Sustainability Plan, aligns with regional and statewide EV initiatives, and ensures ordinances remain equitable and technologically relevant. The Parking & Mobility Services Division has reviewed peer community practices and industry standards, finding that similar updates have been adopted in multiple municipalities to address this emerging issue.
Timing Considerations
Adoption should occur as soon as possible to ensure residents with qualifying electric vehicles are not issued citations under the current weight restrictions. This will align the ordinance with current enforcement practices and protect residents from unintended penalties. In addition, adoption in advance of the next vehicle license renewal cycle will ensure a smooth transition for residents purchasing or renewing EV licenses in the upcoming year.
Budget Impact
There is no significant budget impact associated with this ordinance amendment. Vehicle licensing revenues are expected to remain stable or increase as more residents can lawfully register EVs.
Staffing Impact
There is no staffing impact associated with this item. The ordinance aligns with current workflows and will not require additional staff resources.
DEI Impact
Allowing EVs in higher weight classes reduces barriers for residents who wish to transition to sustainable vehicles but are currently excluded by outdated code provisions. This supports equitable access to compliance and reinforces the Village's DEI and sustainability commitments.
Community Input
There has been no community input given in relation to this item.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance amendment.
Advantages:
* Aligns the Municipal Code with evolving vehicle manufacturing standards.
* Encourages EV adoption and supports climate action goals.
* Ensures equity by allowing all residents access to compliance.
* Positions Oak Park as a forward-looking municipality in sustainable mobility.
Disadvantages:
* This action may increase infrastructure wear due to heavier vehicles.
* This action could create temporary confusion among residents until communications are rolled out.
Alternatives
Alternative 1: Maintain existing weight-class restrictions
Advantages:
* No immediate changes are required with this action as the current enforcement remains consistent.
Disadvantages:
* This action excludes a growing segment of EV owners, creating inequity and discouraging sustainability efforts.
Alternative 2: Pilot program allowing EVs in weight classes above the limit with temporary permits
Advantages:
* This action allows a gradual rollout and opportunity to monitor infrastructure impacts before full ordinance adoption.
Disadvantages:
* This action creates complexity in enforcement; residents may perceive inequity if only partial exemptions are granted.
Anticipated Future Actions
No Village Board actions, but staff will monitor EV adoption trends, vehicle licensing compliance, and infrastructure impacts. Future updates may include revisiting license fees, expanding EV charging infrastructure, and evaluating pavement/asset management adjustments for heavier vehicles.
Prepared By: Marlin Jackson, Parking & Mobility Services Manager
Reviewed By: Craig Failor, Development Services Director
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Ordinance