New Orleans, LA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Louisiana child care licensing falls under the Louisiana Department of Education Office of Early Childhood Education, with statutory authority including provisions historically referenced under Louisiana RS 3:4608 and current Title 28 of the Louisiana Administrative Code. A Family Child Care Home provides care for 4 to 6 unrelated children in the provider's residence and must register with the state if accepting subsidies (CCAP) but may operate without licensing if caring for 6 or fewer children of relatives or fewer than 4 unrelated children. In-Home Providers caring for up to 6 children (including the provider's own children under age 6) must obtain Type III licensing to participate in publicly funded programs. Licensing requires criminal background checks for all adult household members, CPR and first aid certification, age-appropriate ratios (no more than 2 children under 12 months, total of 6 children), safe sleep training, fire safety inspection, and an annual home inspection. New Orleans home daycares must also comply with CZO Article 20, which generally permits family child care homes serving 6 or fewer children as a home occupation, but larger group daycares or child care centers exceeding home occupation limits require a separate conditional use approval from the City Planning Commission and City Council. A city occupational license through the Bureau of Revenue is required regardless of state licensing status.