Fresno, CA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

California law strongly protects small and large family child care home operations. Gov Code §1597.30 et seq. defines small family daycare (up to 8 children including caregiver's own) and large family daycare (up to 14 children). California Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) issues licenses after safety inspections. Gov Code §1597.40-§1597.46 prohibits cities including Fresno from banning, zoning, or charging CUP fees to state-licensed daycares. Small daycare must be treated exactly like a residence. Large daycare may be subject to non-discretionary standards but cannot be denied or charged a CUP fee. Fresno requires business tax registration but cannot require a Home Occupation Permit process that goes beyond what applies to any other residence. Fire safety inspection is part of licensing. Parking: one additional off-street space for large daycare can be required but not for small. Typical fire and health requirements: smoke and CO alarms, fenced outdoor play area, background checks, CPR certification, and posted evacuation plan.