Merced, CA Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Garage conversions in the City of Merced are primarily regulated as 'converted' accessory dwelling units under Chapter 20.42 of the Zoning Ordinance (Ord. No. 2555, 2023). Section 20.42.030.B.3 expressly recognizes a converted ADU located within an existing single-family dwelling's attached garage, within an existing detached garage or pool house, or within unused portions of a multi-family structure, provided the converted space complies with the California Building Code for a dwelling. A JADU (max 500 square feet) under Section 20.42.050 must be created entirely within the walls of an existing or proposed single-family dwelling and include an efficiency kitchen and a separate entrance. Two conversion-friendly provisions stand out: under Section 20.42.030.H.2, when all or part of a garage, carport, or parking structure is converted or demolished to build an ADU, the displaced off-street parking spaces are not required to be replaced; and under Section 20.42.030.G.3.a, converting an existing detached accessory structure to a detached ADU requires no additional setbacks. Converted ADUs within the existing space of a single-family residence or accessory structure also avoid new or separate utility-connection fees (Section 20.42.040.D.2). A converted ADU or JADU may add up to 150 square feet beyond the existing footprint solely for ingress and egress. Converting a garage to non-dwelling habitable space outside the ADU framework still requires building permits and must meet building-code occupancy standards.