Zoning Code Text Amendment No. ZCTA26-002 to Amend the Merced County Zoning Code and Introduce Chapter 18.50 to the Merced County Zoning Code,By-Right Ordinance

Merced County is pursuing Zoning Code Text Amendment No. ZCTA26-002 to modify the Merced County Zoning Code through the introduction of Chapter 18.50, known as the By-Right Development Ordinance. This initiative, managed by the Community and Economic Development Department, aims to establish new planning policies and regulatory frameworks across the entire county. The project is categorized as a forecast with a posted date of May 26, 2026, and falls under NAICS code 925120. The amendment is processed under a Common Sense Exemption pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3), as it focuses on establishing general planning policies rather than approving specific development projects or physical environmental changes. Mark Hamilton, serving as Planner III, is the primary point of contact for the lead agency. Because this action is a regulatory zoning amendment rather than a procurement solicitation, there are no specified contract values, payment terms, or formal acquisition clauses.