What licenses are required for a daycare business?

Licenses Required for a Daycare Business in Connecticut

Operating a daycare in Connecticut involves obtaining specific licenses and permits to ensure compliance with state regulations and maintain operational standards.

Child Day Care Licensing

• Child Day Care Center License: Required for facilities serving more than six children unrelated to the provider. This license is issued by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC).
• Family Child Care Home License: Needed if you care for up to six children in a home setting. This also comes under OEC jurisdiction.

Application and Compliance

• Application Process: Submit a detailed application including facility plans, staff qualifications, and background checks.
• Inspections: Expect health, safety, and fire inspections before licensing approval.
• Staff Requirements: Staff must meet training and certification standards, including CPR and first aid.

Additional Operational Considerations

• Business Registration: Register your daycare business with the Connecticut Secretary of State if operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership.
• Insurance: Obtain liability insurance to protect against operational risks.
• Recordkeeping: Maintain attendance logs, health records, and incident reports as required by OEC.
• Payroll and Hiring: Ensure employee classification complies with state labor laws and maintain proper payroll documentation.

As of 2026, regularly check with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood for updates on licensing requirements and operational guidelines.