Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN

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

Updated 2026-03-13 5 stops $300–$800 est. 8–16 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of Minnesota

3 stops

  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.

    Official government source

    $50–$100 (application and background study fees)8–16 weeks

  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.

    Official government source

    $155 (LLC filing fee, if applicable)1–2 weeks

  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.

    Official government source

    Free1 week

City of Minneapolis / Hennepin County

1 stop

  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.

    Official government source

    $0–$100 (zoning verification)1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$800 · 8–16 weeks

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Official Sources

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