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Orange County, FL Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: FL Chapter 402 Child Care →

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Key Facts

State License: FL DCF required
Max Children: 10 including provider kids
Background: All household 12+
Insurance: Liability required
Zoning: Home occupation permitted

City-specific rules exist: Apopka, Ocoee, Winter Park, and Orlando have their own home daycare rules that differ from Orange County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Family day care homes in unincorporated Orange County are permitted as home occupations but must be licensed by Florida DCF under FL Chapter 402 and registered with Orange County. Maximum 10 children allowed, including provider own children under 13.

Full Breakdown

Orange County Code Chapter 38 permits family day care homes as home occupations in residential zones. Providers must hold a Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) license for large family child care homes (6-12 children) or register as a family day care home (up to 5 preschool children plus 5 school-age). Background screenings required for all household members over 12. Fire inspections required annually. Must maintain liability insurance and comply with FL §402.302-402.319 child care statutes.

Violations & Fines

Operating without DCF license: up to $100 per day per child. Zoning violations: $250-$500 civil citation through Orange County Code Enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a county license in addition to state?

Yes. DCF licensing plus Orange County business tax receipt and home occupation compliance are required.

Who enforces this in Orange County?

Orange County code enforcement at (407) 836-3111 handles complaints.

How does Orange County compare?

See how Orange County's home daycare rules stack up against other locations.

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Orange County, FL Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Fla. Stat. § 402.313 (Family Day Care Homes)

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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