Rochester Hills, MI Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules (2026)

Section 138-4.421 sets siting and operational standards distinct from the home-based day care rules. The facility must front a major or proposed thoroughfare with at least a 120-foot right-of-way, and sit on a corner lot or directly abut nonresidential zoning on the same side of that thoroughfare. Daily hours cannot exceed 15, and closing time cannot be later than 9:00 p.m. Parking and child drop-off areas must be in the side or rear yard only, though the City can waive that where an existing building already has front-yard parking or circulation.

Outdoor play areas likewise belong in the side or rear yard, sized to the State of Michigan's Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers, and must be screened well enough to control noise. Trash receptacles need a six-foot obscuring fence or wall with evergreen screening on three sides and no access gates, exterior lighting must be shielded downward, and where no residence sits within 200 feet, the Planning Commission still reviews roof pitch, window features, façade treatment, entrance features and rooftop equipment for residential compatibility. Signs must meet Chapter 134 of the Code, and the facility must comply with all applicable state licensing requirements.