Home Daycare: Simi Valley vs Thousand Oaks
How do home daycare rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Thousand Oaks, CA?
Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks have similar restriction levels.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
California state law permits small family daycare homes (up to 8 children) in residential zones as a matter of right. Simi Valley cannot prohibit small family daycare homes but may regulate large family daycare homes serving 9 to 14 children through a use permit process.
View full Simi Valley rules →Thousand Oaks, CA
Ventura County
Home daycares are protected under California state law and cannot be prohibited by local zoning. Small family daycare homes (up to 8 children) operate by right in residential zones. Large family daycare homes (9-14 children) require a use permit from the city.
View full Thousand Oaks rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Simi Valley | Thousand Oaks |
|---|---|---|
| Small Daycare | Up to 8 children, permitted by right | - |
| Large Daycare | 9-14 children, use permit required | - |
| State Licensing | Required for all daycare homes | - |
| HOA Restrictions | Cannot prohibit small daycare homes | - |
| Small (1-8 kids) | - | Allowed by right with state license |
| Large (9-14 kids) | - | Requires city use permit |
| State License | - | Community Care Licensing required |
| State Law | - | CA H&S Code 1597.45 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Simi Valley FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my home in Simi Valley?
Yes, small family daycare homes for up to 8 children are permitted by right in all residential zones under California law. You need a state license from Community Care Licensing.
Do I need a city permit for home daycare?
Small family daycare homes (up to 8 children) do not need a city permit. Large family daycare homes (9-14 children) require a use permit from Community Development.
Can my HOA prohibit my home daycare?
No, California law prohibits HOAs from banning small family daycare homes in residential areas. Large daycare homes may be subject to additional HOA review.
Thousand Oaks FAQ
Can I run a daycare from my home in Thousand Oaks?
Yes. Small family daycare homes serving up to 8 children are allowed by right in residential zones with a state license. The city cannot prohibit them under California law.
Do I need a city permit for a large home daycare?
Yes, large family daycare homes serving 9-14 children require a use permit from Thousand Oaks Community Development in addition to the state license.
What are the state licensing requirements?
All home daycares need a license from California Community Care Licensing, which includes background checks, health and safety inspections, staffing ratios, and training requirements.
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