Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Paterson, NJ

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey.

$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: .

Paterson / Passaic County Requirements

3 requirements
1

New Jersey Department of Children and Families — Child Care Center License

Child care centers in New Jersey must be licensed by the NJ DCF Office of Licensing. Requires background checks for all staff, fire safety inspection, health inspection, and compliance with staff-to-child ratio requirements.

$100–$200 depending on capacity6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Paterson Department of Business Administration — Business License

Paterson requires a Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. Businesses in regulated industries must obtain additional permits from the appropriate city department. 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

Passaic County / Paterson 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

New Jersey State Requirements

2 requirements
1

New Jersey Division of Taxation — Sales Tax Certificate of Authority

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in New Jersey. New Jersey charges a 6.625% state sales tax. Most services are exempt; retail product sales and certain services are taxable. Register free online via the State of New Jersey Business Registration portal.

FreeImmediate to 3 business days (online)
Official government source
2

New Jersey Background Check Requirement

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