Home Daycare: Chicago vs Evanston
How do home daycare rules compare between Chicago, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Home daycare operations in Chicago are regulated by both Illinois state licensing (225 ILCS 10, DCFS standards) and Chicago's Zoning Ordinance (Title 17). Day care homes serving up to 8 children are generally a permitted use in residential zoning districts.
View full Chicago rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Home daycare operations in Evanston are regulated by both Illinois state licensing (through DCFS) and local zoning. A home daycare serving up to 8 children (day care home) requires a DCFS license but is generally permitted in residential zones. Group day care homes serving 9-16 children require a DCFS license and may need a special use permit from Evanston's Zoning Board of Appeals.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| State License | DCFS Day Care Home license required | - |
| Capacity | Up to 8 children (max 3 under age 2) | - |
| Zoning | Permitted accessory use in residential districts (Title 17) | - |
| Group Home | 9-16 children requires additional licensing/zoning review | - |
| Inspections | CFD fire safety + CDPH health inspection | - |
| Day Care Home | - | Up to 8 children, DCFS license required |
| Group Day Care | - | 9-16 children, may need special use permit |
| DCFS Licensing | - | Background checks, safety inspection |
| Outdoor Play Area | - | Fenced, minimum 4 ft height |
| Fire Department | - | (847) 866-5923 for fire safety inspection |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my home in Chicago?
Yes. Day care homes for up to 8 children are generally permitted in residential zones under Chicago's Zoning Ordinance. You need a DCFS Day Care Home license and may need a Chicago business license.
How many children can I care for in a Chicago home daycare?
A DCFS Day Care Home license allows up to 8 children, including no more than 3 under age 2. A Group Day Care Home license (9-16 children) requires additional licensing and potential zoning review.
Evanston FAQ
How many children can I watch in my home in Evanston?
With a DCFS Day Care Home license, you can care for up to 8 children (up to 12 with an assistant). This size generally fits within Evanston's home occupation zoning rules. A Group Day Care Home for 9-16 children may require a special use permit.
What do I need to get licensed?
You need a DCFS license requiring background checks, home safety inspection, first aid/CPR certification, liability insurance, and 15 hours of annual continuing education. Apply through the Illinois DCFS licensing division. The Evanston Fire Department may also conduct a fire safety inspection.
Is babysitting a few kids considered a daycare?
Illinois requires DCFS licensing when you regularly care for children from more than one unrelated family for more than a few hours per week. Occasional babysitting for one family is not regulated. Contact DCFS for guidance on whether your arrangement requires licensing.
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