The information provided on this page is a basic outline of Ohio Child Care requirements that pertain to the design and construction of Child Care Facilities in the State of Ohio. 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.

OHIO Child Care Licensing Requirements

Child Care license obtained from:

Ohio Department of Job & Family Services, Bureau of Child Care and Development

50th W. Town Street, Columbus, OH 43215-5222

See Ohio state childcare regulations here

(614) 466-3822

Provisional License for first year, then continuous license obtained.

Indoor Space Requirements: 35 sf per child

Outdoor Space Requirements: 60 sf per child

• The play area for 2-1/2 and younger must be separated from older children by a fence that is at least 36″ tall.
• Access to restroom facilities and drinking water must be provided during play times.
• The play areas and equipment shall be inspected quarterly by the administrator.
• A center may be exempt from providing the minimum outdoor space if there is an indoor recreation areas that has a minimum of 1040 sf.

Building Code Requirements

CHILD FIXTURES	ADULT FIXTURES	DRINKING FOUNTAINS	MOP SINK	BATH TUB/ SHOWER
1:​15	1:50	1:100	1	1
​2017 Ohio Building Code

Fire Code Requirements

Did you know . . .

	At least one carbon monoxide detector shall be on each floor where care is provided.		Mercury thermometers shall not be used.		Pets and animals shall be permitted if they present no apparent threat to the safety or health of the children.

To access Ohio 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

Ohio Childcare Licensing Process

Welcome, soon-to-be childcare providers! This is your comprehensive guide to getting a Childcare Provider License in the beautiful heartland state of Ohio. Paving the path to your new, rewarding career shouldn’t be difficult, and we’re here to help you achieve your dream smoothly. This guide details walk-through steps, important information, and helpful tips on how to secure your license. From understanding the prerequisites to fulfilling application requirements, read on to navigate your journey toward becoming an authorized childcare provider in Ohio with confidence and ease.

Are You Considering a Career in Childcare?

Considering setting up your own childcare business in Ohio? Childcare is a rewarding sector with the potential to shape the lives of the future generation. But before you can run a daycare center, home-based childminding businesses, pre-school or after-school activities, you must first secure a childcare provider license. This article will guide you through the comprehensive process of getting a childcare provider license in Ohio.

Why You Need a Childcare Provider License

As a childcare provider, one of the first things you need to realize is the importance of having a license. The childcare provider license not only allows you to legally operate your childcare center but also instills trust in parents. They can feel confident dropping off their children, knowing they’re in reliable, professional hands. More importantly, the licensing process ensures the safety and health of the children under your care as it requires you to meet specific standards and adhere to certain regulations.

So, How Do You Get Licensed in Ohio?

The process of obtaining a license can be a little overwhelming, but don’t worry. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you’re aware of what’s required at every stage.

Step 1: Attend a Pre-Licensing Workshop

The first requirement to obtain a childcare provider license in Ohio is attending a pre-licensing workshop. These workshops provide an overview of the process, the regulations you’ll need to comply with, and the resources available to you. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) offers these workshops, and the schedule can be found on their website.

Step 2: Complete Your Background Check

Another significant step in getting your childcare provider license is completing a background check. Both you and any staff you employ must complete a Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background check. It’s essential to ensure that those caring for children have no serious criminal convictions.

Step 3: Choose Your Type of Childcare Service

There are different types of childcare licenses, so you’ll need to decide which type of service you want to provide. In Ohio, there are several types of licensed providers:

1. Family Childcare Homes
2. Childcare Centers
3. In-Home Aides
4. School Child Programs

The facilities, number of children you can accommodate, and requirements vary by each type of provider, so make sure you’ve chosen one that fits your vision and plans.

Step 4: Compile Your Application

After attending the workshop, completing your background check, and deciding on the type of childcare service you want to provide, the next step is to compile your application.

Your application should include:

• Verification of Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Health Verification: You need a statement from a physician that you are physically fit to care for children.
• Education Verification: Depending on the type of license, there might be certain educational qualifications you need to meet.

Once your application is complete and compiled, it’s time to submit it!

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Ohio has a central Child Care Licensing system where you will submit your completed application. You should expect to pay an application fee when you submit – make sure to check the current fees on the ODJFS website.

Step 6: Inspection

After you have submitted your application, the Department will inspect your home or facility to ensure it meets all safety and health requirements. This inspection will verify that your facility has proper safety equipment, the necessary space requirements, and a safe outdoor area (where applicable).

Step 7: Approval

Once your facility passes the inspection, the ODJFS will issue your license. It’s important to remember that your work doesn’t end there. Keeping your license requires you to maintain these standards and continually meet the requirements.

Concluding Thoughts

Obtaining a childcare provider license in Ohio is a detailed process, but don’t be discouraged. This little bunch of procedures ensures that children receive the best and safest care possible. Understanding and complying with the licensing requirements will not only help you successfully open your childcare service but will also provide a safer, healthier, and more enriching environment for the children you’ll care for.

Embrace the process, fulfill all the requirements diligently, and you’ll be on your way to an exciting career in childcare. Best of luck as you embark on this journey, and may the experience be just as rewarding for you as it will be for the children you care for.