Merced · Zoning · R-MH
Merced R-MH zoning: height, setbacks and lot size
In Merced's R-MH zone, buildings can be up to 35 ft tall, the front setback is 25 ft and the minimum lot size is 10 acres (Merced code, read October 2026).
Key points
- Maximum building height: 35 ft
- Minimum front setback: 25 ft
- Minimum side setback: 10 ft
- Minimum lot size: 10 acres
- Maximum lot coverage: 65%
- Maximum density: 10 units per acre
R-MH 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 R-MH
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 | 35 ft § 20.08.030 · code textTable row “Feet”, column “R-MH”: 35 ft. |
|---|---|
| Minimum front setback | 25 ft § 20.08.030 · code textTable row “Exterior Yards, Front”, column “R-MH”: 25 ft. |
| Minimum side setback | 10 ft § 20.08.030 · code textTable row “All Other Interior Yards”, column “R-MH”: 10 ft. |
| Minimum lot size | 10 acres § 20.08.030 · code textTable row “Lot Area”, column “R-MH”: 10 acres |
| Maximum lot coverage | 65% § 20.08.030 · code textTable row “Lot Coverage (max.)”, column “R-MH”: 65% |
| Maximum density | 10 units per acre § 20.08.030 · code textThe maximum residential density in the R-MH zoning district is ten (10) dwelling units per acre. |
Uses in R-MH
Uses the code's use tables allow in R-MH, or allow with a permit. Each links to its page with the code section.
- Single-family home — Needs a minor use permit
- Child care center — Needs a minor use permit
- Church or place of worship — Needs a conditional use permit
- Growing crops — Needs a conditional use permit — see note
Not on this page
We did not find a general stories, rear setback, FAR limit for R-MH 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 R-MH zone?
35 ft — Merced Municipal Code § 20.08.030.
What is the minimum front setback in Merced's R-MH zone?
25 ft — Merced Municipal Code § 20.08.030.
What is the minimum side setback in Merced's R-MH zone?
10 ft — Merced Municipal Code § 20.08.030.
What is the minimum lot size in Merced's R-MH zone?
10 acres — Merced Municipal Code § 20.08.030.
What is the maximum lot coverage in Merced's R-MH zone?
65% — Merced Municipal Code § 20.08.030.
General information, not legal advice.
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