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Bellevue, WA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 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.

Source: WA DCYF Licensing - Child CareView official code

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?
Yes. Family home child care is licensed by Washington DCYF under WAC 110-300. Care for unrelated children beyond small informal arrangements requires a license and home occupation compliance.
How many kids can I watch in my Bellevue home daycare?
A licensed Family Home Child Care can serve up to 12 children including the provider's own children under 12, with required staff ratios for different age groups.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bellevue

All Bellevue rules

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