How much does it cost to run a dedicated 240-volt line from my panel to my detached garage for EV charging?

Running a dedicated 240V line from your main panel to a detached garage for EV charging typically costs $2,000-$5,000 in the GTA, depending primarily on the distance between your panel and the garage and whether you need to trench underground or can run along an existing structure. The charger unit itself adds another $500-$1,200 on top of the wiring costs.

The biggest cost variable is the run length and routing. For a detached garage that's 10-15 metres from the house, a straightforward underground run using TECK cable in conduit typically costs $2,000-$3,000 for the complete installation including the charger. For garages 20-30 metres or more from the panel — common in older GTA neighbourhoods with deep lots in areas like Scarborough, North York, and Etobicoke — costs can reach $4,000-$5,000 because longer runs require heavier gauge wire to compensate for voltage drop over distance. A 40A circuit that uses 8-gauge wire for a short run may need 6-gauge or even 4-gauge wire for a long run, and heavier copper wire costs significantly more per metre.

The underground trench is typically the most labour-intensive part of the project. Ontario Electrical Safety Code requires the conduit to be buried at least 18 inches deep (24 inches if not in conduit), and your electrician will need to avoid existing underground services — gas lines, water lines, and any landscape irrigation. Before any digging begins, you must call Ontario One Call (1-800-400-2255) to have underground utilities located and marked. This is a free service and is legally required. The trench itself runs through your yard, so expect some disruption to landscaping that you'll need to repair afterward.

Wire sizing is critical for long runs and your electrician will calculate this based on the specific distance. For a standard 40A Level 2 EV charger circuit, the wire must carry the full load without excessive voltage drop — the code limit is 3% for branch circuits. At 15 metres, 8 AWG copper in TECK cable is typically sufficient. At 25-30 metres, your electrician may need to upsize to 6 AWG, adding $300-$600 in material costs. This isn't optional — undersized wire over long runs causes the charger to underperform, runs hot, and creates a potential fire hazard.

Your electrician will also need to install a disconnect switch at the garage, which is code-required for a detached structure's electrical supply. If your garage doesn't already have a sub-panel, many electricians recommend installing a small 60A sub-panel rather than just a single circuit. The incremental cost is modest — perhaps $400-$800 more — and it gives you capacity for garage lighting, a workshop outlet, or other future needs without running another line from the house.

An ESA permit is required for this work, typically costing $150-$300. The ESA inspector will verify proper burial depth, conduit type, wire sizing, grounding, disconnect switch installation, and charger connection. Keep your certificate of inspection permanently — it protects you at resale and for insurance purposes.

Toronto Electrical Repair can match you with a licensed electrician for free to assess your specific garage layout and provide an accurate quote for the complete installation.