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Family child care homes in Washington, DC

A child development home for up to 6 children is allowed by right in houses, flats and townhouses. 7 to 9 is allowed by right as an expanded home. Up to 12 needs BZA approval. OSSE licenses all of them.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Washington before you build.

The details

  • Up to 6 children aged 15 or under, counting the provider's own young children: by right.High confidence
  • 7 to 9 children: by right in residential zones as an expanded child development home. Up to 12 needs BZA approval.High confidence
  • You need a Home Occupation Permit from DOB and an OSSE license. Not allowed in apartment buildings.High confidence

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Common questions

How many children can I care for at home in Washington?
A child development home for up to 6 children is allowed by right in houses, flats and townhouses. 7 to 9 is allowed by right as an expanded home. Up to 12 needs BZA approval. OSSE licenses all of them.

Sources

  1. DC DOB, Establishing a Child Development Home (March 4, 2024). Checked 2026-10-21
    [A child development home serves] not more than six (6) individuals fifteen (15) years of age or less... An expanded CDH for 7 to 9 individuals is permitted by right in residential zones. A maximum of 12 children requires BZA approval... A home occupation p…

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.