Merced County, CA Accessory Structures: Shed Rules (2026)

Merced County regulates storage sheds and workshops as accessory structures under Chapter 18.32 of the Zoning Code (Article 3). Section 18.32.020 allows accessory structures in any zone where a main structure already exists. For residential zones, Section 18.32.030(C) provides the key limits: no accessory structure may exceed 600 square feet on a parcel less than one-quarter acre; accessory structures are limited to 15 feet in height and may not exceed the height of the primary structure (taller structures need an Administrative Permit from the Director). Accessory structures must meet the setbacks for the specific residential zone in Section 18.12.030 — generally a five-foot rear setback for accessory structures — and may not encroach into the required front setback or the street-side setback of a corner parcel. No more than two accessory structures are permitted on any one parcel, and accessory structures may not occupy more than 15 percent of the rear yard. Any single accessory structure over 600 sf (outside the R-R zone) must be built of the same materials, colors, and architectural style as the main house. Cargo (shipping) containers used as sheds are prohibited in residential zones except in the R-R zone, where they require a Conditional Use Permit. Building-permit thresholds are set separately by the California Building Code as adopted by the County.