Oro Valley, AZ Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Arizona regulates home daycare through the Department of Health Services (ADHS) under Arizona Administrative Code Title 9, Chapter 5. A home that cares for 4 or fewer children (not related to the provider) is considered a certified home and may operate with a certificate rather than a full license. Homes caring for 5 to 10 children need a Group Home Certificate from ADHS, and facilities with 11 or more children require a Child Care Facility License. The Oro Valley Zoning Code treats small home daycare (up to 4 children) as a standard home occupation subject to the home occupation permit requirements. Larger operations with 5 or more children may require a conditional use permit through the Planning Division due to the increased traffic, parking, and outdoor activity associated with group care. All home daycares must meet fire safety standards including working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clearly marked exits. Outdoor play areas must be fenced and shaded, which is particularly important in Oro Valley where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees. Pool barriers compliant with ARS 36-1681 are mandatory if the property has a swimming pool. The provider must maintain liability insurance and pass a DPS fingerprint clearance background check.