Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Portland, OR

Complete permit and license guide for starting a home daycare in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon.

$300 -- $800 8–16 weeks 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Portland / Multnomah County Requirements

1 requirement
1

City of Portland Zoning Compliance — Family Day Care

The Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) confirms that certified family child care homes (caring for up to 10 children) are permitted uses in most Portland residential zones by state law. Larger group care operations may require design review. Contact BDS to confirm zoning status for your specific property before applying for state certification.

$0–$300 (zoning confirmation or pre-application conference)1–3 weeks
Official government source

Oregon State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) Certified Family Child Care Home

The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) requires certification for any home caring for 3 or more unrelated children (or any children for compensation in some circumstances). Certification involves a home inspection, background checks for all household members 16+, CPR and First Aid training, mandatory pre-service training hours, and an assessment visit. The certification process typically takes 2–4 months.

$50–$100 (application and background check fees)8–16 weeks
Official government source
2

Oregon Secretary of State Business Registration

Family child care providers operating as a formal business entity in Oregon must register with the Oregon Secretary of State. Many home daycare providers operate as sole proprietors, but an LLC can provide additional liability protection.

$100 (LLC filing fee, if applicable)1–2 weeks
Official government source
3

Oregon Department of Revenue Business Tax Registration

Income from child care services in Oregon is taxable. Child care providers must register with the Oregon Department of Revenue. Oregon has no sales tax, so no sales tax permit is required for child care services.

Free1 week
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Official Sources

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