Home Daycare: Miami Beach vs North Miami

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.

Can I run a daycare from my home in North Miami?

Yes. Florida law permits licensed family day care homes in residential zoning districts and preempts local governments from prohibiting them. You need DCF licensing (or registration for 5 or fewer children), a city business tax receipt, and compliance with fire safety and building codes.

How many children can I care for in a home daycare in North Miami?

Family day care homes may care for up to 10 children (including the provider's own). Large family child care homes may care for up to 12 children with additional staff. Contact DCF at 866-762-2237 for licensing requirements.

What fire safety is required for a home daycare in North Miami?

Home daycares must have working smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher, a written fire evacuation plan, and adequate emergency exits. The North Miami Fire Department at (305) 893-6511 may conduct inspections for compliance.