In neighborhoods like Caen, some electric vehicle owners have been seen connecting their cars to home outlets using cables that sometimes run across sidewalks. This practice has sparked discussions about whether it is legal and if it creates practical issues for pedestrians and local authorities. An analysis from October 2024 by Haute-Garonne Ingénierie noted that running a cable on or above a sidewalk is considered an "irregular" practice. However, the report suggested that such use could be permitted under specific conditions, such as limiting the hours of use, ensuring the path remains safe, and possibly paying a fee. According to the General Code of Public Property, article L. 2122-1, anyone wishing to use public space must have a legal title or authorization. This means that simply having a meter in one's name does not automatically give the right to use the sidewalk in front of one's home. Article R. 644-2 of the Penal Code penalizes objects left on public roads that hinder or reduce the safety of passage. If a cable is poorly placed and obstructs movement, it could fall under this law. Law enforcement can take preventive action, with fines up to 750 euros for individuals. Parking a car on the sidewalk is also considered a serious nuisance and can lead to a fixed fine of 135 euros and possible impoundment. Even if a cable is authorized to pass over the sidewalk, this does not automatically make the parking legal. Article 1241 of the Civil Code holds individuals responsible for damages caused by their negligence, which could mean that someone who installs the cable might face legal consequences if it causes harm or inconvenience. The practice of running cables across sidewalks to charge electric vehicles may be driven by practical needs, especially in areas where homes lack driveways or garages. However, it is important to consider the impact on public space and pedestrian safety. Some cities have already explored alternative solutions, such as hidden charging stations built into sidewalks, as seen in Dusseldorf, or street lamps that double as charging stations, like in Prague. These approaches offer more practical and legal ways to support electric vehicle owners while preserving the usability and safety of public areas.