Coral Springs vs Fort Lauderdale
How do home daycare rules compare between Coral Springs, FL and Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Coral Springs has fewer restrictions than Fort Lauderdale.
Coral Springs, FL
Broward County
Florida Statute 166.0445 preempts local zoning restrictions on family day care homes. A licensed or registered family day care home in Coral Springs constitutes a valid residential use and cannot be required to obtain special use permits, zoning waivers, or pay fees exceeding $50. Licensing is administered through the Florida Department of Children and Families.
View full Coral Springs rules →Fort Lauderdale, FL
Broward County
Home daycare operations in Fort Lauderdale require licensing through Broward County, which administers its own child care licensing program. Operators must verify zoning compliance with the city, complete required training, pass fire and safety inspections, and obtain background screenings.
View full Fort Lauderdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Coral Springs | Fort Lauderdale |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | F.S. 166.0445 | - |
| Max Children | Up to 10 (family); 12 (large) | - |
| Special Permits | Not required | - |
| Max Fee | $50 | - |
| License | FL DCF required | - |
| Licensing Authority | - | Broward County — not state DCF |
| Training Required | - | DCF 30-hour course, CPR/First Aid |
| Background Check | - | Level II — provider, substitute, all adult residents |
| Fire Inspection | - | Required from Fort Lauderdale Fire Dept |
| Contact | - | Broward County Child Care Licensing — 954-357-4800 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Coral Springs FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my home in Coral Springs?
Yes. Under Florida Statute 166.0445, a licensed or registered family day care home is a valid residential use in any residential zone. Coral Springs cannot require special use permits or zoning waivers. You must be licensed through the Florida Department of Children and Families.
How many children can a home daycare serve in Coral Springs?
A family day care home may serve up to 10 children including the provider's own children. A large family child care home may serve up to 12 children with additional staffing requirements. Licensing is through the Florida DCF.
Fort Lauderdale FAQ
How do I start a home daycare in Fort Lauderdale?
Register with Broward County's child care licensing program (not state DCF), verify zoning compliance with the city, complete the DCF 30-hour training and CPR certification, pass background checks and fire inspection.
Does Fort Lauderdale zoning allow home daycares?
Zoning compliance must be verified with the Fort Lauderdale Development Services Department. Contact them at 954-828-5929 to confirm your property's zoning allows family child care home use.
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