Home Daycare: Belmont vs Cambridge
How do home daycare rules compare between Belmont, MA and Cambridge, MA?
Cambridge has fewer restrictions than Belmont.
Belmont, MA
Middlesex County
Family child care in Middlesex County requires licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care under 606 CMR 7.00, and local zoning bylaws must permit the use per MGL c.40A s.3.
View full Belmont rules →Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge home daycares must hold a Massachusetts EEC license and comply with zoning for family child care homes, which are permitted as-of-right in residential districts under MGL c.28A.
View full Cambridge rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Belmont | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| Licensor | MA Dept of Early Ed and Care | - |
| Regulation | 606 CMR 7.00 | - |
| Capacity | 6 children (10 with assistant) | - |
| Zoning protection | MGL c.40A s.3 | - |
| Background check | CORI and SORI required | - |
| Licensing Agency | - | Massachusetts EEC |
| Small Family Limit | - | 6 children |
| Large Family Limit | - | 10 children |
| State Law | - | MGL c.28A and 606 CMR 7.00 |
| Zoning Status | - | As-of-right residential |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Belmont FAQ
Do I need a license to run a daycare from home?
Yes. Massachusetts requires a family child care license from the EEC before caring for any unrelated children for compensation. Unlicensed operation is illegal.
Can my town ban a licensed home daycare?
No. Under MGL c.40A s.3, Middlesex municipalities cannot prohibit licensed family child care in residential zones, though they can impose reasonable parking and signage rules.
Cambridge FAQ
Do I need a Cambridge city license?
No separate city daycare license, but you need the state EEC license plus Cambridge fire and health inspections.
How many children can I watch?
Up to 6 in small family child care, or up to 10 in large family child care with a certified assistant.
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