Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Lewiston, ME

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Lewiston, Androscoggin County, Maine.

$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: .

Lewiston / Androscoggin County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Maine Child Care Licensing — Child Care Center License

Child care centers in Maine must be licensed by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. Requires background checks, facility inspections, and staff-to-child ratio compliance.

$50–$1506–12 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Lewiston Finance Department — Business License

Lewiston requires a Business Registration for businesses operating within city limits. Contact the Finance Department for specific requirements. 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

Androscoggin County / Lewiston Building and Fire Safety Inspection

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

$100–$3002–6 weeks
Official government source

Maine State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Maine Revenue Services — Sales Tax Registration

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Maine. Maine charges a 5.5% state sales tax (food and lodging have different rates). Register with Maine Revenue Services online.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source
2

Maine Background Check Requirement

All staff, volunteers, and household members (for family daycares) in Maine 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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