Home Daycare: Apex vs Raleigh

How many kids can I watch in an Apex home daycare?

Up to 8 children, with no more than 5 preschool-age children at any one time. Apex UDO Sec. 4.5.5.B.2 defers entirely to North Carolina state rules. NCGS § 110-86 and § 110-91 define a Family Child Care Home (FCCH) as care for 3-10 children in the operator's residence, with the FCCH cap at 8 (max 5 preschool-age, including the operator's own preschoolers, plus up to 3 school-age). A NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) license is required for more than 2 unrelated children.

Do I need a permit from Apex to open a home daycare?

Yes — two permits. First, a NC DCDEE Family Child Care Home license ($52 initial + $52 annual) including background checks, medical statements, CPR/first aid training, 18 hours of annual in-service training, and home health-and-safety inspections. Second, an Apex Home Occupation Permit ($50) from the Planning Department under UDO Sec. 4.5.5. Apex doesn't impose additional capacity caps beyond the NC state license — Sec. 4.5.5.B.2 explicitly defers to NCDCDEE limits.

Can I care for my neighbor's kids without a license?

NC allows informal care of up to 2 children unrelated to the provider for less than 4 hours per day without licensure. Beyond that, state licensure is required regardless of compensation.

Do I need Raleigh approval in addition to state licensure?

No separate city permit beyond the $50 Business Registration. State licensure satisfies zoning as long as you operate within UDO 6.7 home occupation standards (no exterior signs, residential character preserved).