Explanation of Licensing Process

RULES AND PROCEDURES

Become familiar with the administrative rules for child caring institutions and the following procedures in order to assist yourself in understanding the licensing process.

SITE

A license is issued to a specific person or organization at a specific location, is non-transferable, and remains the property of the Department. Therefore, an institution must be established at a specific location. Contact your local zoning board or comparable local authority. Obtaining a license for a child caring institution (5 or more capacity) is contingent upon zoning approval.

ORIENTATION

If you have not attended an orientation session, contact an area manager for information about the next scheduled orientation and discuss the requirements and process of licensing. In signing the application, you agree to operate in compliance with the Act and Rules. You will want an opportunity to gain a clear understanding of the total process.

FACILITY INSPECTIONS

• It is your responsibility to arrange for a fire safety inspection of the proposed facilities. A list of qualified fire safety inspectors will be provided to you. A fee may be charged. The completed inspection report must be forwarded to your consultant. A new license requires an “A” rating.
• It is your responsibility to arrange for an environmental health inspection of the proposed facilities. The inspection request form is to be provided to the local public health agency. A fee may be charged. The local health agency will send the completed inspection report to your consultant. A new license requires an “A” rating.