Home Daycare: Altadena vs El Monte
How do home daycare rules compare between Altadena, CA and El Monte, CA?
Altadena and El Monte have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Licensed family daycare homes in unincorporated LA County are protected by CA HSC 1597.40. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) requires no local use permit. Large family daycare (up to 14 children) requires state licensing. The county cannot ban licensed daycare in residential zones.
View full Altadena rules →El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
California law preempts local zoning for small family daycare homes (up to 8 children). Large family daycare (9-14 children) requires a use permit in El Monte. State Community Care Licensing required for all.
View full El Monte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Small Daycare | Up to 8 children, no local permit | Up to 8 kids, zoning exempt |
| Large Daycare | Up to 14 children, state license | 9-14 kids, use permit needed |
| State Preemption | HSC 1597.40 | - |
| Zoning | Cannot ban in residential zones | - |
| State License | - | Community Care Licensing required |
| Preemption | - | CA H&S Code 1597.45 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I run a daycare from home in unincorporated LA County?
Yes. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) is permitted in all residential zones by state law and cannot be prohibited by zoning or HOAs. You need a license from California Community Care Licensing.
Do I need a zoning permit for a home daycare?
Not for small family daycare (up to 8 children). Large family daycare (9-14 children) may require a use permit from the Department of Regional Planning depending on the zone. State licensing is separate.
Who licenses home daycares in LA County?
California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. Contact the local regional office for unincorporated LA County at (323) 981-3400 for application information and requirements.
El Monte FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in El Monte typically allow 6-8 children with a state license. Larger operations need additional permits.
Do I need a zoning permit for a home daycare?
Small daycares are often allowed by right in residential zones. Larger operations in El Monte may need a conditional use permit.
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