Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in St. Louis, MO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in St. Louis, St. Louis City County, Missouri.

$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: .

St. Louis / St. Louis City County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Missouri Department of Social Services — Child Care Facility License

Child care centers and group homes in Missouri must be licensed by the Division of Social Services, Family Support Division. Requires background checks, facility inspection, and staff training.

$50 (application)6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

City of St. Louis License Collector — Business License

St. Louis City is an independent city (not part of St. Louis County) and requires a Business License from the License Collector's office. 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

St. Louis City County / St. Louis 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

Missouri State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Missouri Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Missouri. The state rate is 4.225%; local rates vary by city and county. Register online with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source
2

Missouri Background Check Requirement

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

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Official Sources

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