Somerville, MA Home Business: Home Daycare (2026)
Key Facts
- State License
- EEC via 606 CMR 7.00 required
- Child Limit
- 6 children (10 with assistant)
- Zoning
- Residential use per MGL c.40A s.3
- Lead Paint
- Delead required for kids under 6
- Contact
- Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600
Summary
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.
No zoning ordinance or bylaw in any city or town shall prohibit, or require a special permit for, the use of land or structures, or the expansion of existing structures, for the primary, accessory or incidental purpose of operating a child care facility; provided, however, that such land or structures may be subject to reasonable regulations concerning the bulk and height of structures and determining yard sizes, lot area, setbacks, open space, parking and building coverage requirements. As used in this paragraph, the term ''child care facility'' shall mean a child care center or a school-aged child care program, as defined in section 1A of chapter 15D. [...] Family child care home and large family child care home as defined in section 1A of chapter 15D shall be an allowable use and no city or town shall prohibit or regulate such use in its zoning ordinances or by-laws.
Full Breakdown
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Somerville permit in addition to my EEC license?
Can my neighbors block my family daycare?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Somerville
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Home Daycare in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle home daycare.