When it comes to EV stalls in Colorado, paint helps drivers, but signs make the rule enforceable. If you want police to ticket gas cars (“ICEing”) or EVs that aren’t charging, your lot needs official signs that meet state requirements—striping alone won’t do it.
What makes an EV stall legally enforceable in Colorado
- Colorado law defines an “official sign” as a sign that identifies the space for EV charging, cites C.R.S. 42‑4‑1213 (or a matching local ordinance), and clearly displays the penalties for violating it. With those signs in place, police may enforce the rule on private property at the owner’s request.
- Penalties: Colorado sets a $150 fine plus a $32 surcharge (total $182). Post the penalty on the sign—it’s part of the “official sign” definition.
- Overnight/long‑term exceptions: EVs may remain in a charging stall after charging at hotels (overnight guests), airports (travelers), or between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
Recommended sign text (copy/paste for your vendor)
Use one sign per stall, mounted at the head of the space so it’s visible over a parked vehicle.
Suggested legend:
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING ONLY — WHILE CHARGING
C.R.S. 42-4-1213 — $150 FINE + $32 SURCHARGE
Optional time note for hotels/airports or sites allowing overnight charging:
Overnight charging exception per C.R.S. 42-4-1213(3)
Striping that supports (not replaces) enforcement
We’ll keep stall lines clean and add an EV charging symbol at the stall head. Place curb stops/bollards so cables and pedestrian routes stay clear. Remember: under C.R.S. 42‑4‑1213, the posted “official sign” is what unlocks enforcement—pavement words alone don’t meet the statute’s definition.
Planning for accessible EV charging (do this now, even if chargers come later)
In Denver, we look for at least one or two future locations that could meet accessible charging geometry—about an 11′ stall with a 5′ access aisle and a clear, level route to the entrance and charger controls. It’s inexpensive to plan now and saves rework later.
Does re‑striping trigger Denver’s EV infrastructure rules?
No. Denver ties EV‑infrastructure requirements to new parking facilities under the 2022 Denver Energy Code—re‑striping an existing lot, even if you add a few spaces, does not trigger those requirements.
Quick checklist for property managers
- Post an official sign at each EV stall that cites C.R.S. 42‑4‑1213 and shows the $150 + $32 penalty.
- Keep pavement stencils simple; signs do the enforcing.
- Plan at least one accessible EV stall location now (≈11′ stall + 5′ access aisle + accessible route).
- In Denver, re‑striping ≠ new EV code trigger.
- Confirm whether your EV/parking signs need permits before ordering.
Get a clean, enforceable layout
Need compliant signs and bright, high‑visibility striping in Denver, Lakewood, Aurora, or Boulder? We’ll handle layout, stencils, and coordinate your EV sign package so it’s enforceable on day one. Get a free estimate and we’ll put a plan together for your property.
Disclaimer: We’re not attorneys, and this article is not legal advice. If you have legal questions about signage, enforcement, or liability, consult your counsel.