Newport News, VA Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Under 5 children
- no permit required
- 5 to 12 children
- conditional use permit required
- Play fence max height
- 6 feet
- Outdoor play hours
- 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Non-resident staff
- 1 employee maximum
Summary
Newport News lets a home care fewer than five children with no permit, but five to twelve children requires a conditional use permit under Zoning Code § 45-522, plus a fenced play area and set outdoor hours.
(a)A child day program offered in the residence of the provider for compensation that regularly provides direct care during part of a twenty-four-hour day to fewer than five (5) children under the age of thirteen (13) years old...shall be permitted...(b)...to at least five (5) and not more than twelve (12) children...shall be allowed with the approval of a conditional use permit...(3)The play area shall be enclosed with a solid fence not to exceed six (6) feet in height in the rear or side yard.(4)Outdoor play activities shall only be conducted between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 81).
Full Breakdown
Section 45-522 splits family day homes into two tiers. Caring for fewer than five children under 13 is allowed with no permit, though the provider may register voluntarily with the Virginia Department of Education. Caring for five to twelve children requires a conditional use permit, a play area enclosed by a solid fence up to six feet tall, outdoor play limited to 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., no more than one non-resident employee, and state child-care licensing.
Violations & Fines
The zoning administrator enforces this section and orders correction of violations. Operating a five-to-twelve-child day home without a conditional use permit, or exceeding the fence height or play hour limits, is a zoning violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to run a home daycare in Newport News?
How high can the play area fence be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Newport News
Compare Newport News to another location·View the Virginia building safety overview
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