Iowa Child Care Licensing Requirements

The information provided on this page is a basic outline of Iowa Child Care requirements that pertain to the design and construction of Child Care Facilities in the State of Iowa. This information is a brief synopsis and does not include all of the detailed requirements needed to satisfy the governing authorities for Child Care Licensing, Building Code, Fire Code, Accessibility, or local Zoning. These guidelines are for general information and planning purposes. Contact the governing authority directly or engage a Licensed Architect to complete a full analysis of your school location.

IOWA Child Care Licensing Requirements

Child Care license obtained from:

Iowa Department of Human Services

1305 East Walnut Street, 5th floor, Des Moines, IA 50319-0114

https://dhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/Comm204.pdf?102220191304

(515) 281-0429

License renewal: required once every two years.

Indoor Space Requirements: 35 sf per child

	2 Wks- 2 Years	2 Years	3 Years	4 Years	5-9 Years	10 Years and Older
Required Teacher:Child Ratio	1:4	1:6	1:8	1:12	1:15	1:20
Required Max. Group Size	None	None	None	None	None	None
Recommended Classroom Capacity	8	12	16	24	30	40
Recommended Staff per Classroom	2	2	2	2	2	2
Recommended Min. Classroom Area	280 sf.	420 sf.	560 sf.	840 sf.	1050 sf.	1400 sf.

Outdoor Space Requirements: 75 sf per child

The outdoor area will include safe play equipment and area of shade.
Approval may be given by the department for clients operating in a densely developed area to use an alternative outdoor play area.
check drinking water shall be provided to children who are outside for more than one hour.
The director or designated person will complete and record monthly inspections of the outdoor recreation area and equipment to make sure there are no safety hazards.

Building Code Requirements


CHILD FIXTURES	ADULT FIXTURES	DRINKING FOUNTAINS	MOP SINK	BATH TUB/ SHOWER

1: 15	1:50	1:100	1	1
2015 International Building Code

Fire Code Requirements

50	With an occupant load of 50 or more, there will be a required approved fire alarm system.	10	Occupant loads that are greater then 10 people, is required to have 2 exit doors.	1	Childcare centers that serve children 2 weeks to 2 years of age have to have a least 1 sink where they serve the children.
2009 International Fire Code

Did you know . . .

	A written policy on the discipline of children will provide positive guidance for the facility.		No co-sleeping will be allowed.		Sanitary and suitable water are accessible to children and facilities.

To access Iowa Child Care requirements along with other states please see our interactive Child Care Requirements US map here.

Research completed by Calbert Design Group, LLC. Updated 2019