Home Daycare: Aurora vs Centennial
How do home daycare rules compare between Aurora, CO and Centennial, CO?
Centennial has fewer restrictions than Aurora.
Aurora, CO
Arapahoe County
Home daycares in Aurora must be licensed by Colorado under CRS 26-6-102, meet zoning standards, and provide outdoor play space. Family homes can serve up to 6 children including residents.
View full Aurora rules →Centennial, CO
Arapahoe County
Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) licenses family child care homes. Arapahoe County allows home daycares as a permitted use in residential zones subject to state license. Small (up to 6 kids) and large (7-12 kids) programs have separate requirements.
View full Centennial rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Aurora | Centennial |
|---|---|---|
| State law | CRS 26-6-102 | - |
| Family home capacity | Up to 6 children | - |
| Large family home | Up to 12 with assistant | - |
| Training | 15 hours plus CPR/first aid | - |
| Aurora zoning | Permitted home occupation | - |
| Licensing | - | Colorado CDEC |
| Small Home | - | Up to 6 children |
| Large Home | - | 7-12 with assistant |
| Zoning | - | Allowed in residential |
| Insurance | - | $100K minimum |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Aurora FAQ
Can I run a daycare without a state license?
Only if caring for children from one additional family at a time. Care for children from two or more unrelated families on a regular basis requires a Family Child Care Home license.
Do I need extra insurance?
The state requires liability insurance or a signed disclosure to parents; most providers carry child care liability insurance.
Centennial FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my Arapahoe County home?
Yes, with a Colorado Department of Early Childhood license. Small home daycares (6 kids) are allowed by right in residential zones.
Do I need a county permit in addition to the state license?
Small homes do not. Large family child care homes (7-12 kids) may need site plan review depending on location and outdoor impact.
Compare other topics
See how Aurora and Centennial compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool