Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Lexington, KY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky.

$500 -- $2000 8–16 weeks to obtain all licenses and pass inspections 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Lexington / Fayette County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services — Child Care Center License

Child care centers in Kentucky must be licensed by the CHFS Division of Child Care. Requires background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and compliance with staff-to-child ratios.

$50–$150 depending on capacity6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government — Revenue Division — Business License

Lexington (Fayette Urban County) requires an Occupational License for all businesses. The Revenue Division issues and renews annual licenses based on business type and payroll. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source
3

Fayette County / Lexington Building and Fire Safety Inspection

Child care centers must pass building inspections for safety, ADA accessibility, fire suppression, and appropriate child-proofing standards. Conducted by local fire marshal and building department.

$100–$3002–6 weeks
Official government source

Kentucky State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Kentucky Department of Revenue — Sales and Use Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or certain services in Kentucky. Kentucky charges a flat 6% state sales tax with no local sales taxes (most transactions). Certain services including telecommunications, digital products, and some repair services are also taxable. Register online with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online via Kentucky One Stop Business Portal)
Official government source
2

Kentucky Background Check Requirement

All staff, volunteers, and household members (for family daycares) in Kentucky child care facilities must undergo criminal background checks through the state and FBI.

$25–$75 per person1–4 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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