Dunedin vs Pinellas Park
How do home daycare rules compare between Dunedin, FL and Pinellas Park, FL?
Dunedin has fewer restrictions than Pinellas Park.
Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Florida law declares family day care homes a valid residential use, preventing Dunedin from zoning them out of residential neighborhoods. Pinellas County licenses these homes locally and operators must register or obtain licensure.
View full Dunedin rules →Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas County
Family day care homes in Pinellas Park must comply with Florida Statute 402.305 and Pinellas County child care licensing through the Pinellas County License Board, which administers local child care licensing on behalf of the state.
View full Pinellas Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dunedin | Pinellas Park |
|---|---|---|
| State authority | Florida Statute 402.313 | - |
| Zoning protection | Valid residential use | - |
| Licensing | Pinellas County License Board | - |
| Background screening | Required for operators | - |
| City rules apply | General residential standards | - |
| Statute | - | FS 402.305 licensing standards |
| Local Licensing | - | Pinellas County License Board |
| Background Screening | - | Level 2 required for caregivers |
| Capacity | - | Up to 10 children family home |
| Zoning Treatment | - | Residential use protected |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dunedin FAQ
Can I run a family day care home in Dunedin?
Yes. Florida law makes family day care homes a valid residential use, and Dunedin cannot prohibit them in residential zoning districts.
Who licenses my daycare?
Pinellas County licenses family day care homes locally because it is one of four Florida counties that handle child care licensing instead of the state DCF.
Pinellas Park FAQ
Can I open a family day care home in my Pinellas Park residence?
Yes, with proper licensing through Pinellas County License Board and compliance with FS 402.305 standards. State law protects family day care homes as residential uses in zoning.
How many children can I care for at home?
Florida family day care homes are typically capped at 10 children including the caregiver's own, with sub-limits by age group. Large family child care homes allow more with two caregivers.
What background check is required?
All caregivers and household members 12 and older must complete Level 2 background screening including fingerprinting through the Florida Department of Children and Families.
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