Home Daycare: Lakewood vs Tacoma
How do home daycare rules compare between Lakewood, WA and Tacoma, WA?
Lakewood and Tacoma have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, WA
Pierce County
A home-based day care in unincorporated Pierce County may operate from a residence under PCC 18A.37.100, serving up to 12 individuals with a DCYF-approved fence around the outdoor play area, and must hold a Washington family home child care license from DCYF.
View full Lakewood rules →Tacoma, WA
Pierce County
A home-based day care in unincorporated Pierce County may operate from a residence under PCC 18A.37.100, serving up to 12 individuals with a DCYF-approved fence around the outdoor play area, and must hold a Washington family home child care license from DCYF.
View full Tacoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| County cap | 12 individuals (PCC 18A.37.100) | 12 individuals (PCC 18A.37.100) |
| Play area | DCYF-approved fence | DCYF-approved fence |
| State license | DCYF family home license | DCYF family home license |
| License basis | WAC 110-300-0010 | WAC 110-300-0010 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
How many children can a home daycare serve in Pierce County?
PCC 18A.37.100 caps county home-based day care at 12 individuals; DCYF licenses family home child care for up to 12 children, or up to 16 with a state capacity waiver.
Do I need a state license for a home daycare?
Yes. Under WAC 110-300-0010, a DCYF family home child care license is required to care for one or more unrelated children on a regular, ongoing basis in your home.
Tacoma FAQ
How many children can a home daycare serve in Pierce County?
PCC 18A.37.100 caps county home-based day care at 12 individuals; DCYF licenses family home child care for up to 12 children, or up to 16 with a state capacity waiver.
Do I need a state license for a home daycare?
Yes. Under WAC 110-300-0010, a DCYF family home child care license is required to care for one or more unrelated children on a regular, ongoing basis in your home.
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