Sammamish, WA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)

Sammamish allows home daycares under its home occupation framework (SMC 21A.65.050), with restrictions that depend on the home's zoning district — the Home Business Guide notes rules differ in the R-4 and R-12 districts, so applicants should check the General Services Land Uses table. The City classifies home daycares by size: a Daycare I serves a maximum of 12 adults or children in any 24-hour period and is permitted; a Daycare II serves more than 12 adults or children in any 24-hour period, requires additional permits, and the applicant must submit a Conditional Use Permit. Beyond the City's land-use approval, the operator must obtain a license from the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). Under DCYF rules, a Licensed Family Home program is child care provided in the provider's own residence for 12 or fewer children. Effective April 1, 2025, the Fair Start for Kids Act and updated state building codes allow approved family home providers to request a capacity waiver to serve more than 12 (up to 16) children if added safety requirements — such as a permitted sprinkler system and a kitchen heat detector — are met. Standard home occupation conditions (resident operator, neighborhood compatibility, client hours) continue to apply.