Home-based daycare in The Bronx is regulated by NY State OCFS licensing (Social Services Law Article 6, Title 4-B). Family day care homes caring for 3-8 children need OCFS registration; group family day care for 9-16 requires OCFS license. NYC zoning permits family day care as of-right in most residential districts under ZR 22-13.
Bronx County operators must register with the NY State Office of Children and Family Services under 18 NYCRR Part 417 (Family Day Care Homes) or Part 416 (Group Family Day Care). NYC Zoning Resolution 22-13 lists family day care as a permitted home occupation in R1-R10 residential districts, bypassing special permit requirements. NYC Department of Health requires no separate permit for state-registered homes, but the NYC Building Code demands a valid Certificate of Occupancy compatible with the residential use. Local Law 125 of 2013 also requires carbon monoxide detectors in all day care spaces. Operators must carry OCFS-mandated liability insurance and pass background checks via NY State Central Register.
Operating without OCFS registration: civil penalty up to $500 per day under Social Services Law 390. NYC DOB may issue a Stop Work Order and vacate order if the C of O does not permit day care use.
See how Bronx County's home daycare rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.