Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Portland, ME

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Portland, Cumberland 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: .

Portland / Cumberland 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 Portland City Clerk / Licensing Division — Business License

Portland requires a Business License for most businesses operating within city limits. The City Clerk's office issues licenses for regulated business types including food service and personal care. 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

Cumberland County / Portland 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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