Home Daycare: Pasadena vs South San Gabriel
How do home daycare rules compare between Pasadena, CA and South San Gabriel, CA?
South San Gabriel has fewer restrictions than Pasadena.
Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Small family daycare homes (up to 8 children) are allowed by right in residential zones per CA HSC 1597.45. Large family daycare (9-14 children) requires a conditional use permit. Pasadena cannot prohibit small family daycare homes.
View full Pasadena rules →South San Gabriel, CA
Los Angeles County
Licensed family daycare homes in unincorporated LA County are protected by CA HSC 1597.40. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) requires no local use permit. Large family daycare (up to 14 children) requires state licensing. The county cannot ban licensed daycare in residential zones.
View full South San Gabriel rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pasadena | South San Gabriel |
|---|---|---|
| Small Family | Up to 8 children, by right | - |
| Large Family | 9-14 children, CUP required | - |
| State Law | CA HSC 1597.45 | - |
| Zoning | Cannot prohibit small daycare | Cannot ban in residential zones |
| Small Daycare | - | Up to 8 children, no local permit |
| Large Daycare | - | Up to 14 children, state license |
| State Preemption | - | HSC 1597.40 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pasadena FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Pasadena 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 Pasadena may need a conditional use permit.
South San Gabriel FAQ
Can I run a daycare from home in unincorporated LA County?
Yes. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) is permitted in all residential zones by state law and cannot be prohibited by zoning or HOAs. You need a license from California Community Care Licensing.
Do I need a zoning permit for a home daycare?
Not for small family daycare (up to 8 children). Large family daycare (9-14 children) may require a use permit from the Department of Regional Planning depending on the zone. State licensing is separate.
Who licenses home daycares in LA County?
California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. Contact the local regional office for unincorporated LA County at (323) 981-3400 for application information and requirements.
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