Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Bismarck, ND

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Bismarck, Burleigh County, North Dakota.

$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: .

Bismarck / Burleigh County Requirements

3 requirements
1

North Dakota Department of Human Services — Child Care Facility License

Child care centers in North Dakota must be licensed by the ND DHS Early Childhood Services. Requires background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and staff ratio compliance.

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

City of Bismarck City Clerk — Business License

Bismarck requires a Business License for certain regulated businesses within city limits. The City Clerk's office issues licenses for applicable business categories. 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

Burleigh County / Bismarck 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

North Dakota State Requirements

2 requirements
1

North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner — Sales Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in North Dakota. North Dakota charges a 5% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3.5%. Register with the ND Office of State Tax Commissioner.

FreeImmediate (online via Taxpayer Access Point)
Official government source
2

North Dakota Background Check Requirement

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