Bethlehem, PA Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum space per child
- 40 sq ft indoor, wall to wall
- Inspections
- At least twice per year
- First violation fine
- $200 or 30 days, or both
- Third+ violation fine
- $1,000 or 90 days, or both
- Enforcing agency
- Bureau of Health
- Registration required
- Location, enrollment, ownership
Summary
Bethlehem's Bureau of Health licenses and inspects every day care center in the city under Article 1165, which sets minimum indoor space, staff-child ratios, sanitation and fire-safety standards. Centers must register with the Bureau and pass at least two inspections a year, and operators face escalating fines for violations.
The Bureau of Health is hereby authorized and instructed to develop and implement a program of registration and inspection of day care facilities under these regulations... ... Inspection shall be conducted of each facility at least twice per year. (Ord. 3017 §2. Passed 9/17/85.) ... Each facility shall have minimum of 40 square feet (372 square decimeters) of indoor space for each child, measured wall to wall inclusive of space occupied by cupboards, shelves, furniture, and equipment... ... Any person who violates any provision of this Article shall be subject to the following penalties: (a) First violation - A fine of $200.00, or thirty days imprisonment, or both...
Full Breakdown
02). 01). 03). 04). Emergency evacuation plans must be posted on each floor in use as a day care facility, and stairs used by children need right-hand descending handrails with gates or protective devices at the top and bottom of any stairway of more than three risers. 06 percent. 09).
Violations & Fines
Article 1165 sets a graduated fine schedule under 1165.99: a first violation draws a fine of $200 or thirty days imprisonment, or both; a second violation $500 or sixty days, or both; and a third or subsequent violation $1,000 or ninety days imprisonment, or both. The Bureau of Health may also refuse registration or order corrective inspection before a facility may continue operating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a day care center under Bethlehem's code?
How often does Bethlehem inspect day care centers?
What happens if a day care center violates Article 1165?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bethlehem
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