Zoning Code Update Process

Introduction

The Merced County Zoning Ordinance (Title 18 of the Merced County Code, also described as the "Zoning Code") guides and regulates the growth and development of Merced County, based on the adopted 2030 Merced County General Plan. In 2015, the County initiated its first comprehensive Zoning Code update since portions of the ordinance was amended in 1977 by Ordinance No. 1586. The purpose of the update is to:

  • Implement the goals and policies of the 2030 Merced County General Plan;
  • Address modern day issues identified by Staff and the Board of Supervisors;
  • Align with State and Federal Laws; and,
  • Provide a user-friendly document through organization, clear and simplified language, and the use of tables and graphics.

Zoning Code Update Status  (Effective November 21, 2019)

  • On September 25, 2019, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and recommended the Board of Supervisors adopt the new Zoning Ordinance.
  • On October 22, 2019, the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing and adopted the new Zoning Ordinance. The new Title 18 becomes effective on Thursday, November 21, 2019. 
  • View the newly adopted online Zoning Ordinance


Past Public Hearing Dates 

Public Hearing Review AuthorityDate
Planning CommissionJune 26, 2019
Board of SupervisorsAugust 13, 2019
Planning CommissionSeptember 25, 2019
Board of SupervisorsOctober 22, 2019


Past Meetings

MeetingDate
Kick-off MeetingJuly 1, 2015
Stakeholder InterviewsSeptember 9, 2015
Stakeholder MeetingSeptember 10, 2015
Joint Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission Study SessionNovember 3, 2015
Board of Supervisors Subcommittee MeetingApril 18, 2018
Board of Supervisors Subcommittee MeetingDecember 11, 2018
Joint Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission Workshop
View Joint Study Session Presentation Slides
February 26, 2019
Zoning Code Update Education Night
October 17, 2019


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