Somerville family child care homes operate under MA EEC licensing (606 CMR 7.00) and are treated as residential uses under state law, with local zoning limited to safety and compatibility.
Somerville follows Massachusetts General Laws c.28A and 606 CMR 7.00, which require licensing by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) for family child care providers. A licensed family child care home may serve up to 6 children (or up to 10 with an approved assistant). Under MGL c.40A s.3, a licensed family child care home is treated as a residential use and cannot be prohibited by local zoning, though it remains subject to health, safety, and building code requirements. Somerville Inspectional Services verifies smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, egress, and compliance with the Massachusetts Lead Law (MGL c.111 s.197A) for any home serving children under 6. Background checks, CPR/first aid certification, and home inspections are conducted by EEC. Providers must maintain liability insurance and written emergency plans.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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Somerville, MA
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