Home Daycare: Madison vs Middleton
How do home daycare rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison and Middleton have similar restriction levels.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison family daycare homes (up to 8 children) are allowed as a home occupation in residential zones with state licensing through WI DCF. Group daycare homes (9-12 children) require conditional use approval under MGO Chapter 28.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
Wisconsin DCF licenses family childcare under Wis. Stat. Ch. 48 and DCF 250/251. Madison (MGO §28.151) treats licensed family daycare up to 8 children as a permitted home occupation. Group daycare (9-15) requires a conditional use permit. Dane County follows the same tiers in unincorporated zoning.
View full Middleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| State License | WI DCF required | DCF 250/251/252 |
| Family Home | Up to 8 children | - |
| Group Home | 9-12, conditional use | - |
| Zoning | MGO Chapter 28 | - |
| Fire Inspect | Madison FD required | - |
| Small Family (1-8) | - | Permitted home occupation |
| Group (9-15) | - | Conditional use permit |
| Background | - | Wis. Stat. §48.685 |
| Insurance | - | $300K typical minimum |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Do I need a Madison permit for a family daycare?
You need a state DCF license. Family daycare is allowed as a home occupation by right in most residential zones, but group daycare homes need a conditional use permit.
How many children can I watch without a state license?
Wisconsin requires certification for 4 or more children under age 7 who are not related to the provider. Watching 3 or fewer unrelated children generally does not require licensing.
Middleton FAQ
Can I run a daycare for 6 kids out of my Fitchburg home?
Yes, with a Wisconsin DCF family child care license (DCF 251) and Fitchburg Home Occupation approval. Up to 8 children are permitted by right in residential zones citywide.
What about watching just 3 of my neighbor's kids?
Under Wis. Stat. §48.65, caring for 4 or more unrelated children triggers DCF licensing. Fewer than 4 children may be exempt, but the DCF Certification program (DCF 202) is still recommended for liability and tax purposes.
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