Wyoming Statewide Rule

Wyoming Family Child Care Home Licensing Standards

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Wyoming (2026)

Wyoming Department of Family Services licenses all family child care homes serving more than two unrelated children. State licensing rules establish ratios, safety standards, and background checks that apply uniformly statewide and limit local zoning interference.

Key Facts

Threshold: 3+ unrelated children
Licensing Agency: Wyoming DFS
Family Home Cap: Up to 10 children
Background Checks: All adults required
Statute: W.S. Title 14, Ch. 4

Source: Wyoming Legislature

Full Breakdown

Under Wyoming Statutes Title 14, Chapter 4, and DFS Rules Chapter 1 and Chapter 6, providers caring for three or more unrelated children must obtain a state license as a family child care home (up to 10 children) or family child care center. State rules cover staff-to-child ratios, emergency planning, immunization documentation, fire and health inspections, and criminal background checks for all household members 18 and older. Wyoming caselaw and Title 15 home-occupation provisions limit cities from prohibiting state-licensed family child care homes outright in residential zones, though cities may impose neutral parking and signage standards.

Violations & Penalties

Operating without a required DFS license is a misdemeanor. Civil penalties, license revocation, and child placement removal may result for serious violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to babysit a few neighborhood kids in Wyoming?

Care for two or fewer unrelated children typically does not require a DFS license. Three or more triggers state family child care home licensing.

Can a Wyoming city ban licensed daycare homes from residential streets?

No. State-licensed family child care homes are generally protected as permitted home occupations, though cities may apply neutral standards on parking and signage.

Sources

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