Home Daycare: DeSoto vs Garland
How do home daycare rules compare between DeSoto, TX and Garland, TX?
DeSoto has fewer restrictions than Garland.
DeSoto, TX
Dallas County
Dallas County does not license or zone home daycares — child-care regulation is handled by Texas DFPS / HHSC under Tex. Human Resources Code Ch. 42. Care for up to 3 unrelated children is exempt from state registration; 4-12 children requires a Registered or Licensed Child-Care Home permit from HHSC Child Care Regulation. Inside city limits, the city's home-occupation code may add rules.
View full DeSoto rules →Garland, TX
Dallas County
In-home daycares in Garland require Texas HHSC licensing or registration plus compliance with home occupation zoning, fire safety, and parking standards.
View full Garland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | DeSoto | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| County Permit | None (no county zoning) | - |
| State Authority | HHSC Child Care Regulation | - |
| Exempt | ≤3 unrelated children (Listed Home) | - |
| Registered Home | 4-12 children (state permit) | - |
| HHSC Hotline | 1-800-862-5252 | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
DeSoto FAQ
Do I need a Dallas County permit to run a home daycare?
No. Dallas County has no zoning authority and issues no home-business permits in unincorporated areas. Child care is regulated solely by Texas HHSC Child Care Regulation under Tex. Human Resources Code Ch. 42. Care for ≤3 unrelated children only needs a free Listing; 4-12 children requires Registered or Licensed Home status from HHSC (1-800-862-5252).
How many children can I watch in my home without a state permit?
Up to 3 unrelated children at a time qualifies as a Listed Family Home — free listing only, no inspection. Once you regularly care for 4 or more unrelated children, you must apply for a Registered Child-Care Home permit (4-6 plus part-time school-age, max 12) or a Licensed Child-Care Home (7-12) through HHSC. Inside city limits, the city's home-occupation ordinance may add rules.
Garland FAQ
How do I get licensed for in-home daycare in Garland?
Apply through Texas HHSC Child Care Regulation, complete pre-application orientation, pass background checks, and submit to a home inspection before serving children.
Do I need a Garland-specific permit on top of state licensing?
Yes, you need a fire safety inspection from Garland Fire Marshal and must comply with the home occupation zoning rules; larger group homes need additional permits.
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