Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Merced, CA (2026)
2 verified zoning overlays & bonuses rules for Merced, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Density Bonus Law
Merced grants a density bonus and development incentives to any housing project of five or more units that sets aside units for very low-, low-, or moderate-income households, seniors, transitional foster youth, or homeless residents under Chapter 20.56. Bonuses reach up to 35% additional density, with affordability locked in by deed restriction for at least 55 years.
Merced Housing Density Bonus Ordinance
Some RestrictionsMerced, CA, Municipal Code Sec. 20.56.020(A)
A.General.1.The city shall grant a density bonus and other incentives to an applicant for a housing development of five (5) or more units if they meet the requirements of this chapter.2.The deed restriction and other applicable documents, approved by city attorney, of a property subject to density bonus shall include a period of continuation of affordability not less than fifty-five (55) years ...
Downtown Design Guide
Merced's downtown districts (D-COR, D-O, D-CM) run on build-to setbacks rather than suburban yards: buildings sit between 0 and 10 feet from the sidewalk, height tops out at 60 feet in D-O and D-CM, and upper floors above two stories must step back from adjacent single-family homes.
Merced Downtown Zoning Design Standards
Some RestrictionsMerced, CA, Municipal Code Sec. 20.14.030, Tables 20.14-2 and 20.14-3 (Development Standards for Downtown Zoning Districts)
Setbacks Exterior [1] Ⓐ Min: 0 ft. Max: 10 ft. Min: 0 ft. Max: 10 ft. Min: 0 ft. Max: 10 ft. ... Height (max.) [3] Ⓓ None 60 ft.[3] 60 ft.[3] ... Stepbacks (Min.) Exterior, above 6 stories Ⓔ 15 ft. 15 ft. 15 ft. Interior, above 2nd floor when adjacent to single-family home Ⓕ 15 ft. 15 ft. 15 ft.
Looking for Merced County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Merced city rules.
Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Merced County →