Newport Beach, CA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

California Health and Safety Code Section 1597.40 requires cities to allow small family daycare homes (up to 8 children including the provider's own) as a permitted use in all residential zones. Newport Beach complies with this mandate, meaning small daycare homes operate without a city use permit but must be licensed by the California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division. Large family daycare homes (9 to 14 children) require both state licensing and a conditional use permit from Newport Beach. The use permit process evaluates parking adequacy, traffic generation, noise impacts, outdoor play area safety, and compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood. NBMC Title 20 zoning provisions require large daycare homes to provide one off-street parking space per non-resident employee. Outdoor play areas must be fenced and must comply with noise standards during operating hours. Hours of operation are typically limited to 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Fire safety inspections by the Newport Beach Fire Department are required prior to licensing for both small and large facilities. The Community Development Department coordinates the use permit process at (949) 644-3200.