Home Daycare: Homestead vs Miami Beach
How do home daycare rules compare between Homestead, FL and Miami Beach, FL?
Homestead has fewer restrictions than Miami Beach.
Homestead, FL
Miami-Dade County
Home daycare operations in Homestead require licensing from the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Family child care homes serving up to 10 children are regulated under FL Statute Chapter 402. The home must meet fire safety, health, and background screening requirements. A city business tax receipt is also required.
View full Homestead rules →Miami Beach, FL
Miami-Dade County
Home daycare operations in Miami Beach require a Certificate of Use, Business Tax Receipt, and compliance with Miami-Dade County zoning under Section 33-199(a). Family day care homes may serve up to 5 children including the operator's own. Florida DCF registration is mandatory for caring for children from more than one unrelated family.
View full Miami Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Homestead | Miami Beach |
|---|---|---|
| License | DCF license required | - |
| Capacity | Up to 10 children (family home) | - |
| State Law | FL Statute Chapter 402 | - |
| Fire Inspection | Required — Homestead Fire (305) 224-4600 | - |
| Contact | DCF (305) 377-5015 | - |
| Max Children (Family) | - | 5 including operator's own |
| Training Required | - | 35 hours (30 + 5 literacy) |
| City Permits | - | CU + BTR + Fire Fee |
| State Registration | - | Florida DCF required |
| Water Safety | - | Full barrier near any water body |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Homestead FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my Homestead home?
Yes, with a DCF license. Family child care homes can serve up to 10 children. You need background screening, fire inspection, CPR certification, and a city business tax receipt.
How many kids can I watch at my Homestead home daycare?
A standard family child care home can serve up to 10 children including the provider's own children under 13. Large family homes with an assistant may serve up to 12.
Does my home daycare need a fire inspection in Homestead?
Yes. The Homestead Fire Department at (305) 224-4600 conducts fire safety inspections as part of the DCF licensing requirements for home daycare operations.
Miami Beach FAQ
How many children can I watch in my Miami Beach home?
A Family Day Care Home may care for up to 5 children including the operator's own under Miami-Dade Code Section 33-199(a). A Large Family Child Care Home license allows 6-12 children but requires additional licensing and may need a public hearing.
What permits do I need to run a home daycare in Miami Beach?
You need a Certificate of Use for home occupation and a Business Tax Receipt from the city, plus Florida DCF registration. You must complete 35 hours of training before registration. An annual fire inspection is also required.
Are there special safety requirements for home daycares near the ocean?
Yes. Miami-Dade zoning prohibits child care on property abutting any water body including the ocean, bay, or canals unless a complete safety barrier totally encloses or separates the children from the water hazard. All pools must also be fully enclosed.
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