Home Daycare: Renton vs Seattle
How do home daycare rules compare between Renton, WA and Seattle, WA?
Renton has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Renton, WA
King County
Renton allows family home child care in residential zones. Providers serving up to 12 children must be DCYF-licensed under WAC 110-300 and meet RMC 4-9-090 home occupation rules.
View full Renton rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Home-based child care in unincorporated King County requires a Washington State DCYF license (Family Home Child Care up to 12 children). KCC 21A.30.080 allows licensed daycare as a home occupation in residential zones.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Renton | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State License | DCYF required, WAC 110-300 | - |
| Capacity | Up to 12 children (Family Home) | - |
| State Preemption | RCW 35.63.185 prohibits local bans | - |
| City License | 150 dollar Renton Business License | - |
| Code | RMC 4-2-060 / RMC 4-9-090 | - |
| Licensing Agency | - | Washington DCYF |
| Max Children | - | 12 (Family Home) |
| State Code | - | WAC 110-300 |
| Background Check | - | Required for adults 16+ |
| County Rule | - | KCC 21A.30.080 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Renton FAQ
Can Renton ban a home daycare in my neighborhood?
No. RCW 35.63.185 preempts local zoning bans on licensed family home child care. The city can only apply neutral rules on parking, signs, and nuisance.
Do I need a Renton business license to run a home daycare?
Yes. You need both a Washington DCYF family home license and a City of Renton Business License filed through filelocal-wa.gov.
Seattle FAQ
Do I need a license for home daycare in King County?
Yes. Washington State requires a Family Home Child Care License from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) to care for children from more than one unrelated family on a regular basis. The license is required before operating, regardless of county or city.
How many children can a licensed home daycare serve in King County?
A Family Home Child Care license allows up to 12 children, including the provider's own children under age 5. Staffing ratios vary by age group, and an assistant is required when more than six children are present.
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