West Virginia Family Child Care Home Licensing Standards

WV requires family child care registration for caregivers serving up to four unrelated children, certification for five to six children, and full licensing for facility homes serving seven to twelve children under §49-2-114. The Bureau for Family Assistance enforces background checks, training, immunization, and safety standards uniformly across the state. Zoning ordinances may regulate location and traffic but cannot impose health-and-safety standards stricter than state rules without authorization. Operating without required state credentials is unlawful regardless of municipal permission.

Unlicensed operation triggers cease-and-desist orders, civil penalties up to $10,000, and potential criminal prosecution for endangering children under WV law.