Home Daycare: Altadena vs Los Angeles
How do home daycare rules compare between Altadena, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
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 →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Small family day care homes (up to 8 children) and large family day care homes (up to 14 children) are permitted in any dwelling unit without a zoning change per LAMC 12.22 A.3. State licensing through CA Community Care Licensing is required. Day care centers (15+ children) require a change of use permit from LADBS. Large family homes must have two exits and three detached sides.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Home | - | Up to 8 children, no zoning change |
| Large Home | - | Up to 14 children, state license |
| Day Care Center | - | 15+ requires change of use permit |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 12.22 A.3 |
| Licensing | - | CA Community Care Licensing Dept |
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.
Los Angeles FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles may need a conditional use permit.
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