Federal Way vs Renton
How do home daycare rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Renton, WA?
Federal Way and Renton have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way permits family home child care in single-family homes. State-licensed providers caring for 12 or fewer children are allowed under RCW 35.63.185 and Federal Way Revised Code Title 19 zoning.
View full Federal Way rules →Renton, WA
King County
Renton allows family home child care in residential zones. Providers serving up to 12 children must be DCYF-licensed under WAC 110-300 and meet RMC 4-9-090 home occupation rules.
View full Renton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Renton |
|---|---|---|
| Max Children (Home) | 12 or fewer | - |
| State Preemption | RCW 35.63.185 | RCW 35.63.185 prohibits local bans |
| Licensing Agency | Washington DCYF | - |
| City Permit | Business registration required | - |
| Zoning Code | FWRC Title 19 | - |
| State License | - | DCYF required, WAC 110-300 |
| Capacity | - | Up to 12 children (Family Home) |
| City License | - | 150 dollar Renton Business License |
| Code | - | RMC 4-2-060 / RMC 4-9-090 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my Federal Way home?
Yes. State law RCW 35.63.185 allows family home child care for 12 or fewer children in any residential zone with DCYF licensing plus a Federal Way business registration.
Do I need a zoning permit?
No conditional use permit is required for state-licensed family home child care. Larger commercial child care centers require FWRC Title 19 review.
Renton FAQ
Can Renton ban a home daycare in my neighborhood?
No. RCW 35.63.185 preempts local zoning bans on licensed family home child care. The city can only apply neutral rules on parking, signs, and nuisance.
Do I need a Renton business license to run a home daycare?
Yes. You need both a Washington DCYF family home license and a City of Renton Business License filed through filelocal-wa.gov.
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