Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Lincoln, NE

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska.

$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: .

Lincoln / Lancaster County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Nebraska Health and Human Services — Child Care Facility License

Child care centers in Nebraska must be licensed by the NHHS Division of Children and Family Services. Requires background checks, health and safety inspections, and staff ratio compliance.

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

City of Lincoln Revenue Division — Business License

Lincoln requires a Business License for certain regulated businesses. Contact the Revenue Division or City Clerk for requirements specific to your business type. 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

Lancaster County / Lincoln 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

Nebraska State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Nebraska Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Nebraska. Nebraska charges a 5.5% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may impose additional taxes of up to 2%. Register with the Nebraska Department of Revenue online.

FreeImmediate (online via NebFile)
Official government source
2

Nebraska Background Check Requirement

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