Apopka, FL Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)
Key Facts
- State License
- DCF required FL §402.313
- City Permit
- Business tax receipt required
- Family Capacity
- 5 or fewer children
- Screening
- Level 2 background check
- Training
- 30 hours DCF approved
Summary
Apopka permits family day care homes (5 or fewer children) as accessory home occupations in residential zones, subject to state DCF licensing under FL §402.313 and city home occupation permit requirements.
Family day care homes shall be licensed under this act if they are presently being licensed under an existing county licensing ordinance or if the board of county commissioners passes a resolution that family day care homes be licensed. (a) If not subject to license, family day care homes shall register annually with the department, providing the following information: 1. The name and address of the home. 2. The name of the operator. 3. The number of children served. 4. Proof of a written plan to provide at least one other competent adult to be available to substitute for the operator in an emergency. This plan shall include the name, address, and telephone number of the designated substitute. 5. Proof of screening and background checks. 6.
Full Breakdown
Family day care homes are regulated primarily at the state level by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) under FL Statute §402.313. Operators must obtain DCF registration (family day care) or licensing (large family child care home for 9-12 children). Apopka requires a city home occupation permit (business tax receipt) in addition to state credentials. Providers must complete 30 hours of DCF-approved training, pass Level 2 background screening, and maintain required staff-to-child ratios. Operations must not alter residential character of the home.
Violations & Fines
Operating an unlicensed day care: DCF criminal referral plus city code enforcement. Violations of city home occupation standards: citations up to 500 dollars per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a home daycare in Apopka without a state license?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Apopka
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Apopka to another location·View the Florida home business overview
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