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Washoe County, NV Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Governing law
NRS / NAC Chapter 432A
Family home
5 to 6 children (NAC 432A.100)
Group home
7 to 12 children (NAC 432A.110)
Indoor space
~35 sq ft per child
Licensing body
Nevada DHHS / DPBH

Summary

Running child care in a Washoe County home requires a Nevada state license. A licensed family home cares for five to six children; a group home cares for seven to twelve. Care for four or fewer children is generally exempt from licensing under NAC 432A.

City-specific rules exist: Reno has its own home daycare rules that differ from Washoe County's county-level regulations. If you live in Reno, check the city-specific page instead.

“Family home” means any facility in which the licensee regularly provides care without the presence of parents, for at least five and not more than six children. “Group home” means any facility in which the licensee regularly provides care for no less than seven and no more than twelve children.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Nevada regulates child care facilities under NRS and NAC Chapter 432A, administered by the state (Division of Public and Behavioral Health / DHHS). NAC 432A.100 defines a family home as a facility where the licensee regularly provides care, without parents present, for at least five and not more than six children; NAC 432A.110 defines a group home as care for no fewer than seven and no more than twelve children. Facilities must meet space standards (about 35 sq ft indoor and 37.5 sq ft outdoor per child, fenced outdoor area). The home operation must also comply with Washoe County's home-based business standards and any zoning limits.

Violations & Fines

Operating an unlicensed family or group child care home violates NRS/NAC 432A and exposes the operator to state enforcement, penalties, and closure by the licensing authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to babysit a few kids?
Care for four or fewer children is generally exempt, but a family home caring for five to six children, or a group home caring for seven to twelve, must be licensed under NAC 432A.
Who licenses home daycares in Washoe County?
The State of Nevada (DHHS / Division of Public and Behavioral Health) licenses child care facilities under Chapter 432A; the county also applies its home-based business standards.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Washoe County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsZoning & Home Occupation PermitsSome RestrictionsCottage Food OperationsSome RestrictionsCustomer Traffic RestrictionsSome RestrictionsSignage RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions

All Washoe County rules

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