Seattle, WA Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- State rule
- WAC 110-300
- Indoor space
- 35 sq ft/child
- Occupancy
- Group E/I-4
- 13+ children
- Center license
Summary
Childcare facilities in Seattle must hold a Washington DCYF license under WAC 110-300 and meet Seattle Building Code Group E or I-4 occupancy provisions in SMC 22.601. Inspections by SDCI, SFD, and Public Health are mandatory.
Chapter 110-300 WAC — FOUNDATIONAL QUALITY STANDARDS FOR EARLY LEARNING PROGRAMS (Formerly: Chapter 170-300 WAC). Sections include: 110-300-0001 Intent and authority; 110-300-0005 Definitions; 110-300-0010 License required; 110-300-0011 License transfers; 110-300-0015 Licensee absence; 110-300-0016 Inactive status — Voluntary and temporary closure; 110-300-0020 Unlicensed programs; 110-300-0025 Certified and exempt programs; 110-300-0030 Nondiscrimination; 110-300-0035 Department access to licensed space; 110-300-0055 Developmental screening and communication to parents or guardians; 110-300-0100 General staff qualifications; 110-300-0105 Preservice requirements; 110-300-0106 Training requirements; 110-300-0107 In-service training; 110-300-0110 Program based staff policies and training; 110-300-0111 Staff oversight; 110-300-0115 Staff records; 110-300-0120 Providing for personal, professional, and health needs of staff; 110-300-0130 Indoor early learning program space; [...] 110-300-0145 Outdoor early learning program space; 110-300-0146 Equipment and surfaces in outdoor early learning space; 110-300-0147 Weather conditions and outdoor hazards.
Full Breakdown
Washington Administrative Code 110-300 (DCYF Licensing) sets staff-child ratios, square-footage minimums (35 sq ft indoor, 75 sq ft outdoor per child), background checks, and curriculum standards. Buildings used by 13+ children classify as Group E education or I-4 daycare under IBC, requiring sprinklers, two means of egress, accessible restrooms, and lead-paint clearance. Seattle SDCI conducts plan review under SMC 22.601, with SFD reviewing fire safety and Seattle-King County Public Health reviewing kitchen and diaper-changing facilities. Family home daycare for up to 12 children operates under WAC 110-300 with looser building standards. Zoning allowance varies by district under SMC 23.42-23.84.
Violations & Fines
Operating without DCYF license: misdemeanor plus closure. Building Code violations: stop-use order and civil penalties up to $500 per day. Child safety violations may trigger emergency suspension and felony charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a daycare from my home?
What inspections does a center need?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Seattle
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Childcare Center Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle childcare center rules.