If you’re a homeowner in California thinking about installing an EV charging station, or if you already have one, you might be surprised to learn that the California Fire Code (CFC) has specific requirements for protecting these stations from potential vehicle impact. Section 1207.11.7.3 of the CFC addresses impact protection for EV charging equipment, and it’s something you can’t afford to ignore.  

What Is California Fire Code 1207.11.7.3?

Section 1207.11.7.3 of the California Fire Code requires that electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) installed in areas accessible to vehicles must be protected against physical damage from vehicle impact. That means if your vehicle’s home charging station is in a garage, driveway, or anywhere a car could bump into it, you need to add some form of physical barrier to keep your charger safe from accidental hits. 

Ideal Shield’s Bollards with orange Skyline Bollard Covers protecting an EV Charging Station

What Do Homeowners Need to Add?

According to CFC 1207.11.7.3, homeowners should consider these options for impact protection:

Bollards: Sturdy vertical posts, usually made of steel, concrete, or plastic, that are anchored in the ground to stop vehicles before they reach the charging station.

From the California Fire Code directly: 

1. Bollards constructed in accordance with one of the following: 

1.1. Minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) in length by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe embedded in a concrete pier not less than 12 inches (304 mm) deep and 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter, with at least 36 inches (914 mm) of pipe exposed, filled with concrete and spaced at a maximum interval of 5 feet (1524 mm). Each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from an ESS. 

1.2 Minimum 36 inches (914 mm) in height by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe fully welded to a minimum 8-inch (203 mm) by 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) thick steel plate and bolted to a concrete floor by means of 4 1/2 inch (13 mm) concrete anchors with 3-inch (76 mm) minimum embedment. Spacing shall not be greater than 60 inches (1524 mm), and each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS.

1.3 Pre-manufactured steel pipe bollards be filled with concrete and anchored in accordance with manufacturer’s installation instructions, with spacing not greater than 60 inches (1524 mm), and each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS.

Ideal Shield’s Base Plate Bollards inside a garage

Parking Blocks: Surface-mounted rubber or concrete barriers properly placed to prevent cars from moving too far forward.

From the California Fire Code directly: 

2. Wheel barriers constructed in accordance with one of the following: 

2.1 Four inches (102 mm) in height by 5 inches (127 mm) in width by 70 inches (1778 mm) in length wheel barrier made of concrete or polymer, anchored to the concrete floor not less than every 36 inches (914 mm) and located not less than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the ESS. Minimum 3 1/2-inch (89 mm) diameter concrete anchors with a 3-inch (76 mm) embedment per barrier shall be used. Spacing between barrier shall be no greater than 36 inches (914 mm).

2.2 Pre-manufactured wheel barriers shall be anchored in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.  

Ideal Shield’s Rubber Parking Block.

Of these, Bollards are often the most effective and versatile solution. They’re easy to install, highly visible, and provide robust protection against vehicle impact. For most home installations, a couple of well-placed Bollards in front of or beside your charging station will meet code requirements and give you peace of mind.

Why Does Impact Protection Matter?

Cars (especially EVs) are very heavy, and even a slight accidental bump can damage your EV charger. That could mean costly repairs, downtime, or even electrical hazards that can spread. More importantly, physical damage could lead to dangerous situations like electrical fires or shock hazards, which is exactly what the Fire Code aims to prevent. Installing appropriate protection isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about keeping your family safe and your investment secure.

Choosing the Right Bollards 

When it comes to selecting the proper Bollards for EV protection, you want something that’s durable, easy to maintain, and looks good in your home environment. We here at Ideal Shield offer a wide range of American-made Bollards designed to meet both safety standards and aesthetic preferences but we also carry the exact size and Schedule Bollards that are in the Fire Code: 3” x 48″ Schedule 80 Bollards.

Ideal Shield Bollards are engineered for impact resistance and long-lasting performance. To eliminate costly maintenance and improve appearance, we also offers the most extensive catalog of Bollard Covers designs, which will eliminate the need for painting and prevent rust, making it perfect for residential settings. Installation is straightforward, and our team can help you select the right size and configuration to meet California Fire Code requirements.

Ideal Shield’s Base Plate Bollard with Yellow Bollard Cover protecting EV Charging Station

Protecting your home EV charging station isn’t just about compliance—it’s about safety and smart homeownership. California Fire Code 1207.11.7.3 makes it clear that impact protection is essential, and Bollards are one of the best ways to meet this need. If you want to keep your charger safe and ensure you’re following the latest regulations, contact our sales team today to discuss the right Bollard for your protection needs.