6 rules for unincorporated Merced County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Home occupations are allowed by right in all of Merced County's residential zones (R-R, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, M-H), subject to approval of a Zoning Clearance under Zoning Code Section 18.60.080. The business must stay incidental to the home and not change the residential character of the neighborhood.
Home-based businesses in Merced County's residential zones are limited to a small nameplate-style sign. Zoning Code Table 3-13 allows one name-plate wall sign per single-family use, with a maximum area of 2 square feet. Home occupation rules also bar advertising that calls attention to the home as a business.
Home occupations in unincorporated Merced County must not generate traffic, parking demand or deliveries beyond what is normal for a residence; significant customer visits can disqualify the use.
Merced County allows cottage food operations in residential zones under Zoning Code Section 18.60.060. Operators need approval of a Zoning Clearance from the Planning Department, must comply with Merced County Environmental Health requirements, and may have one full-time employee not counting family or household members, consistent with California's cottage food law.
Small family day care homes (eight or fewer children) are permitted by right in Merced County's residential zones, consistent with California law. Large family day care homes (nine to 14 children) are allowed with Director approval (Administrative Permit) under Zoning Code Section 18.60.150, subject to outdoor-space, setback, and fire-safety standards.
Merced County requires review and approval of a Zoning Clearance for a home occupation under Zoning Code Section 18.60.080. Low-impact, invisible businesses run entirely by phone, computer, and internet are exempt from the home-occupation requirement but still need a County business license.
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