Home Daycare: Altadena vs Long Beach
How do home daycare rules compare between Altadena, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
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 →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Family daycare homes in Long Beach are permitted under state law. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) requires a license from CA Community Care Licensing. Large family daycare (9-14 children) may require a use permit.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Small Daycare | Up to 8 children, no local permit | - |
| Large Daycare | Up to 14 children, state license | - |
| State Preemption | HSC 1597.40 | - |
| Zoning | Cannot ban in residential zones | - |
| Small FDC | - | Up to 8 children, state license |
| Large FDC | - | 9-14 children, may need use permit |
| State License | - | CA Community Care Licensing |
| Home Inspection | - | Pre-licensing inspection required |
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.
Long Beach FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Long Beach 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 Long Beach may need a conditional use permit.
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