Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Tucson, AZ

1. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

   Issued by the IRS at no cost. Required if you have any employees (assistant caregivers), operate as an LLC, or need a business bank account. Also needed to participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which provides meal reimbursements for qualifying home daycares.

   Official government source

   Free·Same day (online)

   Free

   Same day (online)

1. Arizona Department of Health Services Childcare License

   Issued by ADHS Bureau of Child Care Licensing. A state childcare license is required if you care for 5 or more unrelated children, or if you operate any commercial daycare facility. Licensing requirements include a facility inspection, background checks for all household members over 18, health and safety training, CPR/First Aid certification, and a fire inspection. Home daycares caring for fewer than 5 unrelated children may qualify for an exempt status — confirm with ADHS.

   Official government source

   $100–$300/year·6–12 weeks

   $100–$300/year

   6–12 weeks

2. Background Check — All Household Members

   Required by ADHS for all adults (18+) residing in the home where the daycare operates. Includes Arizona DPS fingerprinting clearance and federal background check. This is a mandatory prerequisite before the childcare license can be issued. Plan 4–6 weeks for clearance processing.

   Official government source

   $25–$75 per person·2–6 weeks

   $25–$75 per person

   2–6 weeks

3. Arizona Corporation Commission Business Registration

   Register your LLC or business entity with the Arizona Corporation Commission if operating under a business name. Sole proprietors may file a DBA with the Pima County Recorder. An LLC is recommended for liability protection when caring for children.

   Official government source

   $50–$85 filing fee·1–2 weeks

   $50–$85 filing fee

   1–2 weeks

1. City of Tucson Home Occupation Permit

   Required to operate a home-based business including a home daycare in a Tucson residential zone. Tucson's home occupation rules limit the scale of business activities in residential areas. Check with the City of Tucson Planning & Development Services to confirm whether your specific residential zone allows group childcare home uses before applying.

   Official government source

   $50–$150·2–4 weeks

   $50–$150

   2–4 weeks

2. City of Tucson Business License

   Required for all businesses operating within Tucson city limits, including home-based daycare operations. Obtained through the City of Tucson Finance Department.

   Official government source

   $45–$75/year·1 week

   $45–$75/year

   1 week

Official Sources

• azdhs.gov
• tucsonaz.gov
• tucsonaz.gov
• azcc.gov

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