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Merced County · Building on your lot

Solar panels and EV chargers in Merced County

Merced County's own rules on solar panels and EV chargers, with the code text for every value.

Ask about solar panels and EV chargers in Merced County See coverage

Each rule below links to the section of the Merced County Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Merced County's code says

Merced County code What Merced County's code adds
EV charger permit
  • Administrative, nondiscretionary fast review using a checklist.
    Applies: Applies to electric vehicle charging stations.
    § 16.42.010 · code text
    The county of Merced building and safety division shall adopt an administrative, nondiscretionary expedited review process consisting of checklists for electric vehicle charging stations.
Solar permit process
  • Apply in person, by mail or electronically, with any required fees; only 1 inspection.
    Applies: Applies to small rooftop home solar systems eligible for fast review.
    § 16.18.030 · code text
    The applicant may submit the permit application and associated documentation to the Merced County building and safety division by personal, mailed, or electronic submittal together with any required permit processing and inspection fees.
  • All permits are approved administratively once the complete application meets the checklist.
    Applies: Applies to small rooftop home solar systems.
    § 16.18.030 · code text
    Upon confirmation by the building official of the application and supporting documentation being complete and meeting the requirements of the checklist, the building official shall administratively approve the application and issue all required permits or authorizations.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for solar panels or an EV charger in Merced County?

Merced County's code: Apply in person, by mail or electronically, with any required fees; only 1 inspection. (Applies to small rooftop home solar systems eligible for fast review.) (§ 16.18.030); Administrative, nondiscretionary fast review using a checklist. (Applies to electric vehicle charging stations.) (§ 16.42.010).

General information, not legal advice.

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Ask GoCodebook how Merced County's solar panels and EV chargers rules apply to your situation and get an answer that cites the section.

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Merced County Municipal Code — full text