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Zoning for Group Homes

Zoning Approval for Group Homes

All applicants of group child care homes should check with their local zoning boards, townships, or fire marshal to determine if their residential use of property requires zoning. This may include steps such as local permits or special zoning approvals before a child care group home can open for operation. Complete the upper portion of the CCL-3748 Zoning Approval for Group Child Care Homes form and have your local zoning authority complete the lower portion and return it back to you for submittal. 

Pursuant to MCL § 125.3206, a group child care home in a county or township shall be granted a special use permit, conditional use permit, or other similar permit if it meets all of these requirements:

  • It is at least 1,500 feet away from the following:

          * Another licensed group child care home
          * A licensed adult foster care small or large group home
          * A licensed substance use disorder treatment facility serving 7 or more people
          * A community correction center, halfway house, or similar facility housing individuals under the Department of Corrections

  • It has fencing deemed appropriate for child safety by the local government.
  • The property is maintained so it visibly fits in with the surrounding neighborhood.
  • It operates no more than 16 hours within any 24 hour period. The local government may restrict (but not ban) operations between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
  • It complies with any local regulations regarding identifying signs.
  • It complies with any local requirements for providing off street parking for employees.

For a city or village, a group child care home may be issued a special use permit, conditional use permit, or other similar permit.

Certificate of Occupancy for Child Care Centers

A certificate of occupancy is a document issued by a local, county or state building department confirming that a building complies with applicable building codes, zoning and safety requirements and is approved for its intended use. A certificate of occupancy is required before any child care centers can legally operate in a building, new construction, renovation, or change of use.

An applicant or licensee must submit a certificate of occupancy before issuance of the original license and before the renewal of a license. It is best practice to contact the local building department about a certificate of occupancy before applying or committing to a commercial space to help identify required renovations, permits, and inspections early.