Pennsylvania DHS regulates childcare centers under 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3270 (centers), 3280 (group homes), and 3290 (family homes). Philadelphia layers zoning approval, L&I building permits, Fire Marshal inspection, and Health Department food-service review on every licensed facility.
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Office of Child Development licenses every childcare center, group home, and family home under Title 55 Pa. Code Chapters 3270, 3280, 3290. Operators must meet staff-to-child ratios (1:4 infants, 1:10 preschool), 40 square feet indoor space per child, fenced outdoor play area, criminal background and child-abuse clearances for staff, and CPR/First-Aid certification. In Philadelphia, the facility must also obtain a zoning approval under Title 14 (use designation E-Family Day Care or Day Care Center), Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy from L&I, Fire Marshal sprinkler and egress sign-off, and Department of Public Health inspection if meals are prepared on site. Fingerprint registration with the Police Department is required for all employees.
Operating without a DHS Certificate of Compliance violates 55 Pa. Code 3270, drawing closure orders and fines up to 500 dollars per day. Philadelphia adds zoning citations and L&I stop-use orders blocking reopening until certified.
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