Fort Lauderdale vs Pembroke Pines
How do home daycare rules compare between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Pembroke Pines, FL?
Fort Lauderdale and Pembroke Pines have similar restriction levels.
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 →Pembroke Pines, FL
Broward County
Pembroke Pines requires a city license for family home day care under Code Section 115.15(D). Operators caring for children from two or more unrelated families must apply. State licensing through the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) is also required. Background screenings and safety inspections are mandatory. Large family child care homes have additional requirements.
View full Pembroke Pines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Lauderdale | Pembroke Pines |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Level 2 screening mandatory |
| Fire Inspection | Required from Fort Lauderdale Fire Dept | - |
| Contact | Broward County Child Care Licensing — 954-357-4800 | - |
| City License | - | Required (§115.15(D)) |
| State License | - | DCF required |
| Inspections | - | Fire, health, safety |
| State Law | - | FL Statute 402 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Pembroke Pines FAQ
Do I need a license to run a home daycare in Pembroke Pines?
Yes. Both a city license under Section 115.15(D) and a DCF state license are required.
How many children can I care for?
The number depends on the license type. Standard family child care homes and large family child care homes have different limits.
Who needs a background check?
All household members over age 12 must pass a Level 2 background screening through DCF.
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