Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Gulfport, MS

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Gulfport, Harrison County, Mississippi.

$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: .

Gulfport / Harrison County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Mississippi State Department of Health — Child Care Facility License

Child care facilities in Mississippi must be licensed by the MSDH Division of Child Care. Requires background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and compliance with staff ratios.

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

City of Gulfport City Clerk — Business License

Gulfport requires a Business License for all businesses within city limits. The City Clerk processes license applications and annual renewals. 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

Harrison County / Gulfport 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

Mississippi State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Mississippi Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Mississippi. Mississippi charges a 7% state sales tax (one of the highest in the nation). Register with the Mississippi Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online via TAP)
Official government source
2

Mississippi Background Check Requirement

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