Merced, CA Parking Rules: EV Charging (2026)

Electric-vehicle charging in the City of Merced is addressed through the city's Development Services / Building and Inspection function, which maintains an 'Electric Vehicle Charging Stations' resource page covering permitting and installation of charging equipment. California requires expedited, streamlined permitting of EV charging stations under state law (Government Code 65850.7), and the California Building Code (CALGreen) sets EV-ready and EV-capable parking-space requirements for new construction, which the city applies through its building-permit process. Day-to-day parking at charging stalls is controlled by the California Vehicle Code and posted signage rather than a unique Merced ordinance: under state law, a space clearly marked and signed for electric-vehicle charging may be restricted to vehicles connected for charging, and a non-electric or non-charging vehicle parked there can be cited or towed where signs so state. The City of Merced does not publish a separate municipal fine schedule specific to EV-stall misuse; enforcement of marked charging spaces follows state rules and the posted signs, handled by the Police Department's Parking Enforcement Unit. Property owners installing chargers pull an electrical/EV permit through the city's permits and inspection portal. For curb-side or city-owned charging locations, drivers should follow the time limits and connection requirements shown on the station signage.