South Dakota Family Daycare Home Registration

SDCL chapter 26-6 establishes statewide child care licensing and registration through the South Dakota Department of Social Services. Family daycare homes serving up to twelve children may operate under registration, while group family homes and child care centers require full licensing. Providers must meet background check, health, safety, ratio, and training requirements. State rules cover supervision, fire safety, immunization, and reporting of abuse or neglect. Cities may not waive these requirements, although local zoning may still classify home daycare as a residential use. The state framework provides consistent baseline protections regardless of municipality.

Operating without required registration or license can lead to administrative fines, closure orders, and potential criminal charges for endangerment or unlicensed care.