Home Daycare: Santa Monica vs South San Gabriel
How do home daycare rules compare between Santa Monica, CA and South San Gabriel, CA?
South San Gabriel has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Family daycare homes in Santa Monica are permitted under California state law. Small family daycare (up to 8 children) requires a state license. Large family daycare (9-14) may require local review. CA Community Care Licensing inspection required.
View full Santa Monica 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 | Santa Monica | South San Gabriel |
|---|---|---|
| Small FDC | Up to 8 children, state license | - |
| Large FDC | 9-14 children, local review | - |
| Inspection | CCLD pre-licensing required | - |
| State License | CA Community Care Licensing | - |
| Small Daycare | - | Up to 8 children, no local permit |
| Large Daycare | - | Up to 14 children, state license |
| State Preemption | - | HSC 1597.40 |
| Zoning | - | Cannot ban in residential zones |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Monica FAQ
How many children can I care for in my home?
Small family daycares in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica 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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