Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a home daycare in Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota.

$300 -- $800 8–16 weeks 5 requirements

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

Minneapolis / Hennepin County Requirements

1 requirement
1

Minneapolis Zoning — Licensed Family Child Care Home

Minneapolis zoning code allows licensed family child care homes as permitted uses in residential zones, consistent with Minnesota state law. Minneapolis Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED) may require notification of adjacent property owners. Verify your specific property's zoning status with CPED before applying for state licensing.

$0–$100 (zoning verification)1–2 weeks
Official government source

Minnesota State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Family Child Care License

The Minnesota Department of Human Services requires a family child care license for any provider caring for one or more unrelated children for compensation. The licensing process includes a DHS background study for all household members age 13 and older, a home inspection for safety standards, mandatory pre-service training, and current CPR/First Aid certification. Minnesota's licensing process is well-defined and provider-supportive, typically taking 2–4 months.

$50–$100 (application and background study fees)8–16 weeks
Official government source
2

Minnesota Secretary of State Business Registration

Family child care providers who operate as a formal business entity in Minnesota must register with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Many home daycare providers operate as sole proprietors, which does not require state registration. An LLC can provide additional liability protection.

$155 (LLC filing fee, if applicable)1–2 weeks
Official government source
3

Minnesota Department of Revenue Business Tax Registration

Income from family child care is taxable in Minnesota. Child care providers must register with the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Child care services sold to families are generally exempt from Minnesota sales tax.

Free1 week
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Official Sources

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