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Do I need a Camp License?

Do I need a Camp License?

Organizations and businesses exploring whether a child care license is required must consider if the setting, time, and type of proposed service meets the definition of one of the many different types of child care organization types found within the Public Act 116 of 1973 (Child Care Organizations Act).  The below decision tree will help you consider if you need a camp license and if so, what type.

Start with these questions to see whether you need a camp license:

  • If yes:

    Proceed to the next question.

    If no:

    Contact the Child Care Licensing Bureau for information about Child Care Center licensing (Child Care Center, Child Care Family or Group Home).

  • If yes:

    Contact the Child Care Licensing Bureau about an outdoor nature-based child care center.

    If no:

    Proceed to the next question.

  • If yes:

    Proceed to the next question.

    If no:

    No camp license required. Consider applicability of a child care center license.

  • If yes:

    A residential, troop, or travel camp license is required. If stationed at a campsite for 5 or more days, then a residential camp (with camp site license). Troop Camp and Travel Camp are not stationed at a licensed camp site.

    If no:

    Proceed to the next question.

  • If yes:

    A children’s day camp license is required and needs to operate at a licensed children’s camp site. Note: An additional child care center license may be required if providing year round programming.

    If no:

    No camp license required. Consider applicability of a child care center license.

Camp License Options

  • Start a Children's Day Camp

  • Start a Children's Residential Camp

  • Start a Children's Travel or Troop Camp