Merced · Zoning · C-O
Merced C-O zoning: height, setbacks and lot size
In Merced's C-O zone, generally buildings can be up to 40 ft tall, the front setback is 10 ft and the minimum lot size is 7,500 sq ft, with the conditions listed below (Merced code, read October 2026).
Key points
- Maximum building height: 40 ft (The limit applies only when directly adjacent to residential zones; the site plan review committee may grant exceptions)
- Minimum front setback: 10 ft
- Minimum side setback: 5 ft
- Minimum lot size: 7,500 sq ft
C-O is a zoning district in Merced. Every value below was read from the Merced Municipal Code and links to its section (read October 2026). State laws such as the ADU and SB 9 rules can allow more on a residential lot. General information, not legal advice — read the code text and check with the city before you build.
Development standards in C-O
The general rule for a typical lot in this zone. Zoning tables often attach notes, such as rules for corner lots, lots next to a residential zone, or new subdivisions only. Open “code text” under a value to see the table cell or sentence it was read from.
| Maximum building height | 40 ft Applies: The limit applies only when directly adjacent to residential zones; the site plan review committee may grant exceptions § 20.10.030 · code textTable row “Feet”, column “C-O”: 40 ft.[3] |
|---|---|
| Minimum front setback | 10 ft § 20.10.030 · code textTable row “Exterior”, column “C-O”: 10 ft. |
| Minimum side setback | 5 ft § 20.10.030 · code textTable row “Interior”, column “C-O”: 5 ft. |
| Minimum lot size | 7,500 sq ft § 20.10.030 · code textTable row “Parcel Area”, column “C-O”: 7,500 sq. ft. |
Uses in C-O
Uses the code's use tables allow in C-O, or allow with a permit. Each links to its page with the code section.
- Apartment building — Needs a conditional use permit
- Live-work unit — Needs a conditional use permit
- Child care center — Needs a minor use permit
- Church or place of worship — Needs a conditional use permit
Not on this page
We did not find a general stories, rear setback, lot coverage, FAR, density limit for C-O in the zoning tables we read. The code may still set one elsewhere — check the Merced Municipal Code.
Other Merced zoning districts
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum building height in Merced's C-O zone?
40 ft (the limit applies only when directly adjacent to residential zones; the site plan review committee may grant exceptions) — Merced Municipal Code § 20.10.030.
What is the minimum front setback in Merced's C-O zone?
10 ft — Merced Municipal Code § 20.10.030.
What is the minimum side setback in Merced's C-O zone?
5 ft — Merced Municipal Code § 20.10.030.
What is the minimum lot size in Merced's C-O zone?
7,500 sq ft — Merced Municipal Code § 20.10.030.
General information, not legal advice.
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