Lakewood vs Los Angeles
How do home daycare rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Lakewood and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Lakewood allows licensed home daycare operations with limits on the number of children. State licensing and local zoning approval typically required.
View full Lakewood rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Small family day care homes (up to 8 children) and large family day care homes (up to 14 children) are permitted in any dwelling unit without a zoning change per LAMC 12.22 A.3. State licensing through CA Community Care Licensing is required. Day care centers (15+ children) require a change of use permit from LADBS. Large family homes must have two exits and three detached sides.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Small Daycare | 6 to 8 children typical | - |
| Large Daycare | Conditional use permit | - |
| License | State required | - |
| Inspections | Regular state visits | - |
| Small Home | - | Up to 8 children, no zoning change |
| Large Home | - | Up to 14 children, state license |
| Day Care Center | - | 15+ requires change of use permit |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 12.22 A.3 |
| Licensing | - | CA Community Care Licensing Dept |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Lakewood typically allow 6-8 children with a state license. Larger operations need additional permits.
Do I need a zoning permit for a home daycare?
Small daycares are often allowed by right in residential zones. Larger operations in Lakewood may need a conditional use permit.
Los Angeles FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Los Angeles typically allow 6-8 children with a state license. Larger operations need additional permits.
Do I need a zoning permit for a home daycare?
Small daycares are often allowed by right in residential zones. Larger operations in Los Angeles may need a conditional use permit.
Compare other topics
See how Lakewood and Los Angeles compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool