Coral Gables vs Homestead
How do home daycare rules compare between Coral Gables, FL and Homestead, FL?
Homestead has fewer restrictions than Coral Gables.
Coral Gables, FL
Miami-Dade County
Family day care homes are a permitted use in Coral Gables single-family residential districts under Zoning Code Section 4-101, but operators must obtain a city Business Tax Receipt, comply with Florida DCF licensing requirements, and meet all applicable fire safety and zoning standards. Large family child care homes serving 6-12 children require additional county and state approvals.
View full Coral Gables rules →Homestead, FL
Miami-Dade County
Home daycare operations in Homestead require licensing from the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Family child care homes serving up to 10 children are regulated under FL Statute Chapter 402. The home must meet fire safety, health, and background screening requirements. A city business tax receipt is also required.
View full Homestead rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Coral Gables | Homestead |
|---|---|---|
| Max Children (Family) | 5 including operator's own | - |
| Training Required | 35 hours (30 + 5 literacy) | - |
| City Permit | Business Tax Receipt required | - |
| State Registration | Florida DCF required | - |
| Large Home License | 6-12 children, separate DCF license | - |
| License | - | DCF license required |
| Capacity | - | Up to 10 children (family home) |
| State Law | - | FL Statute Chapter 402 |
| Fire Inspection | - | Required — Homestead Fire (305) 224-4600 |
| Contact | - | DCF (305) 377-5015 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Coral Gables FAQ
Can I run a home daycare in Coral Gables?
Yes. Family day care is a permitted use in single-family residential districts under Zoning Code Section 4-101. You need a city Business Tax Receipt and Florida DCF registration. You may care for up to 5 children including your own.
Do I need Board of Architects approval for a home daycare?
Not for the daycare use itself, but any exterior modifications such as fencing, play equipment, or signage visible from the street may require Board of Architects review due to Coral Gables' strict aesthetic standards.
What training is required to operate a home daycare in Florida?
Florida DCF requires completion of a 30-hour family day care training course plus a 5-hour early literacy course before registration. Background screening through DCF is also mandatory for all household members over age 12.
Homestead FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my Homestead home?
Yes, with a DCF license. Family child care homes can serve up to 10 children. You need background screening, fire inspection, CPR certification, and a city business tax receipt.
How many kids can I watch at my Homestead home daycare?
A standard family child care home can serve up to 10 children including the provider's own children under 13. Large family homes with an assistant may serve up to 12.
Does my home daycare need a fire inspection in Homestead?
Yes. The Homestead Fire Department at (305) 224-4600 conducts fire safety inspections as part of the DCF licensing requirements for home daycare operations.
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