Madison, WI Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)
Key Facts
- State License
- WI DCF required
- Family Home
- Up to 8 children
- Group Home
- 9-12, conditional use
- Zoning
- MGO Chapter 28
- Fire Inspect
- Madison FD required
Summary
Madison family daycare homes (up to 8 children) are allowed as a home occupation in residential zones with state licensing through WI DCF. Group daycare homes (9-12 children) require conditional use approval under MGO Chapter 28.
DCF 251.01 Authority and purpose. DCF 251.02 Applicability. DCF 251.03 Definitions. DCF 251.04 Operational requirements. DCF 251.05 Staff. DCF 251.055 Supervision and grouping of children. DCF 251.06 Physical plant and equipment. DCF 251.07 Program. DCF 251.08 Transportation. DCF 251.09 Additional requirements for infant and toddler care. DCF 251.094 Staff in school-age programs. DCF 251.095 Additional requirements, modifications, and exceptions for school-age programs. DCF 251.10 Additional requirements for night care. DCF 251.11 Licensing administration. DCF 251.12 Complaints, inspections and enforcement actions. DCF 251.13 Programs established or contracted for by school boards. Ch. DCF 251 Note Note: Corrections made under s.
Full Breakdown
Wisconsin licenses family child care (up to 8 children) and group child care homes (9-12 children) through the Department of Children and Families under WI Stat. Chapter 48 and WI Admin Code DCF 250/251. Madison General Ordinances Chapter 28 (Zoning) permits family daycare homes as a by-right home occupation in most residential districts provided the provider resides on-site. Group daycare homes typically require a conditional use permit from the Plan Commission. Operators must obtain DCF licensure before opening, pass background checks, complete required training hours, and maintain child-to-staff ratios. Fire inspection by Madison Fire Department is required, and the home must meet building and egress code standards. Off-street drop-off accommodations are expected to avoid traffic conflicts on residential streets.
Violations & Fines
Operating an unlicensed daycare can result in DCF enforcement, fines, and closure. Zoning violations may result in MGO Chapter 28 citations starting around 200 dollars per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Madison permit for a family daycare?
How many children can I watch without a state license?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison
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