Home Daycare: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do home daycare rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Family daycare homes in Santa Monica are permitted under California state law. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) requires a state license. Large family daycare (9-14) may require local review. CA Community Care Licensing inspection required.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| 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, local review |
| Inspection | - | CCLD pre-licensing required |
| State License | - | CA Community Care Licensing |
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica may need a conditional use permit.
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