Maryland Family Child Care Home Licensing Statewide

The Maryland State Department of Education Office of Child Care licenses family child care providers who care for up to 8 children in their home. Applicants must complete 24 hours of preservice training, CPR/first aid certification, criminal background checks, and home safety inspections. Adult-to-child ratios, sleep equipment standards, and emergency planning are mandatory under COMAR 13A.15. Local zoning may regulate signage and parking but cannot prohibit licensed family child care in residential districts under state law protecting registered providers.

Operating an unlicensed family child care home is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 per offense and immediate cease-of-operations orders.