I rely on public EV charging stations for my apartment living, but the etiquette seems non-existent. I've seen people leave their car plugged in long after it's fully charged, or use a fast charger for hours when they're just shopping. Is there an unspoken rulebook, or is it still the wild west out there?
Yes there is a vibe and it is mostly courtesy. Unplug when your car is charged and move away so others can plug in. Do not block the charger longer than you need.
Use the station app to see if it is busy and to estimate wait times. Set a timer so you know when to move and keep the line turning.
If you think you will be long, choose a different spot or leave a brief note about your plan for others who are waiting.
Some networks post idle rules or time limits. Follow the posted policy and try to end on a fair note so the next rider has a fair shot.
For a sense of local norms check EV charging stations near me 2025 to see what folks in your area are doing.