Bellevue, WA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)
Key Facts
- Max Children
- 12 total
- Licensor
- WA DCYF
- Background Check
- All adults in home
- Training
- 30 hrs STARS + CPR
- Code
- WAC 110-300; LUC 20.30L
Summary
Family home child care in Bellevue is licensed by Washington DCYF under WAC 110-300. Up to 12 children with required staff ratios. Home occupation compliance under LUC 20.30L is also required.
no city may enact, enforce, or maintain an ordinance, development regulation, zoning regulation, or official control, policy, or administrative practice that prohibits the use of a residential dwelling, located in an area zoned for residential or commercial use, as a family day-care provider's home facility.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
30L but is primarily regulated by Washington State through the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) under WAC 110-300. A licensed Family Home Child Care may care for up to 12 children (including the provider's own children under 12) with required staff ratios depending on ages. Providers must complete a background check including fingerprinting, a criminal history check for all adult household members, home health and safety inspections, CPR and first aid certification, STARS training (30 hours initial), and ongoing annual training. Zoning compatibility is required; Bellevue allows licensed family home child care as a permitted home occupation, but unlicensed child care beyond small informal arrangements is prohibited.
The home must have adequate indoor and outdoor play space, safe drinking water, working smoke alarms, CO alarms, and fencing for outdoor areas. Fire inspection may be required. Parents must receive a written policy handbook. The provider must comply with all Bellevue home occupation standards (25 percent floor area, no exterior signage, residents-only staffing).
Violations & Fines
Unlicensed care: DCYF cease-and-desist and civil penalties; zoning violation under LUC 20.30L if not registered as home occupation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license for home daycare in Bellevue?
How many kids can I watch in my Bellevue home daycare?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bellevue
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Home Daycare in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle home daycare.