Mansfield, TX Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Operating a child care home in Mansfield requires registration or licensure with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) under 42 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 747. Three tiers exist: listed family home (up to 3 unrelated children), registered child care home (up to 6 children plus 6 school-age part-time), and licensed child care home (7 to 12 children). Mansfield zoning generally permits registered and licensed family homes as an accessory use in residential districts provided the operator resides in the home and the business remains incidental to the dwelling. Off-street parking for staff and drop-off, outdoor play space that complies with the city fence ordinance, and compliance with the Mansfield Fire Department inspection for licensed homes are required. Commercial day care centers serving 13 or more children generally require a specific use permit and must be located in approved zoning districts. HHSC background checks on all household members age 14 and older, CPR and first aid certification, and compliance with minimum standards for nutrition, supervision ratios, and safe sleep are mandatory. Signage is restricted to avoid altering the residential character of the neighborhood.