NJ Family Day Care Sponsor Organization registration (N.J.S.A. 30:5B-16) required for 3–5 children. Up to 5 unrelated children allowed in Union County residential zones with state registration.
NJ regulates home-based childcare through the Family Day Care Registration Act (N.J.S.A. 30:5B-16 et seq.) and N.J.A.C. 3A:51. Providers caring for 3–5 unrelated children must register through an approved Sponsor Organization, complete background checks (CHRI, CARI child abuse registry), CPR/first aid, 8 hours orientation + annual training, and pass home safety inspection. Providers caring for 1–2 unrelated children are exempt from registration. Larger centers (6+) require full licensing under Child Care Center Licensing Act. Elizabeth, Union Township, and Plainfield zoning allow registered family day care in residential zones by right (per N.J.S.A. 40:55D-66.5b — state preempts most local zoning restrictions on family day care). Municipalities may impose reasonable conditions on parking, drop-off traffic, and outdoor play areas but cannot effectively prohibit.
Unregistered operations 3+ children: state enforcement, fines $500–$5,000. Safety violations: registration suspension. Exceeding capacity: immediate correction. Zoning-based bans barred by N.J.S.A. 40:55D-66.5b.
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