Pennsylvania Statewide Rule
Pennsylvania Home-Based Child Care Certification Requirements
Key Facts
- Family home limit
- Four to six children
- Regulator
- PA Department of Human Services
- Background checks
- PSP, CY113, FBI fingerprints
- Ratio
- 1:6 with infant cap
Summary
Pennsylvania requires Department of Human Services certification for family child day care homes serving four to six unrelated children, with statewide background checks, training, and ratio standards that apply regardless of municipal zoning labels.
An applicant shall obtain a valid certificate of compliance to operate a family child care home to care for four, five or six unrelated children at a specific location. The certificate of compliance will be issued by the Department to the legal entity prior to commencement of operation at a specified location.
Full Breakdown
Under the Public Welfare Code 62 P.S. Section 1001 et seq. and 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3290, family child day care homes must obtain a DHS certificate of compliance, complete annual unannounced inspections, and maintain a 1:6 caregiver-to-child ratio with no more than two children under 24 months. Operators and household members 14 and older must clear PA State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI fingerprint clearances. Group day care homes serving 7 to 12 children require a separate certification under Chapter 3280.
Violations & Penalties
Operating an uncertified home day care can result in cease-and-desist orders, civil penalties up to $500 per day, and referral for criminal prosecution under the Child Protective Services Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pennsylvania count related children toward the daycare home limit?
Can a Pennsylvania municipality ban a certified family day care home?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.