Santa Clara County Title B classifies childcare centers as Group E or I-4 occupancies with specific egress, fire-protection, and lead clearance requirements. CCR Title 22 licensing through CDSS adds operational rules on staffing, square footage, and outdoor space.
Title B of the Santa Clara County Code regulates the building shell of childcare facilities serving more than six children: classification as Group E (school-age) or I-4 (under 2.5 years) triggers exit-discharge, panic hardware, and fire-alarm provisions of the California Building Code. Centers in pre-1978 buildings need lead-paint clearance under SCC Public Health Department review before occupancy. State licensing through California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing (CCR Title 22) imposes operational floors of 35 sq ft indoor and 75 sq ft outdoor per child, staff-to-child ratios, and fenced play areas. The County Planning and Development Department issues the certificate of occupancy after fire and health clearances.
Operating without a county certificate of occupancy is a misdemeanor under Title B. CCLD may suspend or revoke state licenses; uncleared lead hazards in pre-1978 facilities trigger SCC Public Health abatement orders with civil penalties.
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