Merced County, CA Parking Rules: EV Charging (2026)

Electric vehicle charging is addressed in the Unified Development Ordinance (Title 18, Zoning Code), Section 18.38.150, governing electric and alternative fuel vehicle parking. Table 3-11 establishes a tiered requirement based on the total number of parking spaces a development provides: developments with 1 to 9 spaces require none; 10 to 25 spaces require 1 EV space; 26 to 50 require 3; 51 to 75 require 6; 76 to 100 require 8; 101 to 150 require 11; 151 to 200 require 16; and developments over 200 spaces must provide at least eight percent of the total number of vehicle spaces as electric or alternative fuel vehicle spaces. These spaces must be located as close as possible to the primary entrance without conflicting with ADA or carpool parking. Electric and alternative fuel vehicle parking areas must be illuminated by exterior lighting for security, with lighting focused downward and shielded to reduce glare on adjoining properties, and charging stations cannot block or impede pedestrian access along a sidewalk. The Director may approve case-by-case exceptions where EV charging proves infeasible due to insufficient electrical supply, adverse construction costs, or utility infrastructure impacts exceeding $400 per dwelling unit. These requirements apply to new development reviewed under the zoning code rather than to existing homes.