Family child care homes in Arlington County, VA
A family day care home for up to 12 children is a by-right accessory use in residential districts. Parents must escort children to and from the home. A state license is also required.
A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Arlington County before you build.
The details
- Before 2025, homes with 10 to 12 children needed a use permit. ZOA-2024-08 made them by right, and the current ordinance lists family day care homes as permitted.Medium confidence
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Common questions
- How many children can I care for at home in Arlington County?
- A family day care home for up to 12 children is a by-right accessory use in residential districts. Parents must escort children to and from the home. A state license is also required.
Sources
- Arlington County Zoning Ordinance Article 18, definitions of family and family day care home. Checked 2026-10-21
Family: (a) An individual, or two or more persons related by blood, marriage or adoption, or under approved foster care; or (b) A group of not more than four persons (including servants) whether or not related by blood or marriage living together and sharin…
- ARLnow, County Board to consider nixing approval process for larger home daycares (January 14, 2025). Checked 2026-10-21
Up to nine children can be cared for in a family day home by right... Homes serving 10 to 12 children need a use permit... A zoning amendment (ZOA-2024-08) would allow homes with 10 to 12 children to be approved by right.
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.