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.
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.
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.
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