Pennsylvania requires Department of Human Services certification for family child day care homes serving four to six unrelated children, with statewide background checks, training, and ratio standards that apply regardless of municipal zoning labels.
Under the Public Welfare Code 62 P.S. Section 1001 et seq. and 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3290, family child day care homes must obtain a DHS certificate of compliance, complete annual unannounced inspections, and maintain a 1:6 caregiver-to-child ratio with no more than two children under 24 months. Operators and household members 14 and older must clear PA State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI fingerprint clearances. Group day care homes serving 7 to 12 children require a separate certification under Chapter 3280.
Operating an uncertified home day care can result in cease-and-desist orders, civil penalties up to $500 per day, and referral for criminal prosecution under the Child Protective Services Law.
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Lancaster, PA
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