Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Burlington, VT

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont.

$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: .

Burlington / Chittenden County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Vermont Child Development Division — Child Care License

Child care centers in Vermont must be licensed by the Vermont Child Development Division. Requires background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and staff-to-child ratio compliance.

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

City of Burlington City Clerk — Business License

Burlington requires a Business License for regulated businesses within city limits. The City Clerk processes applications for food service, personal care, and other regulated industries. 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

Chittenden County / Burlington 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

Vermont State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Vermont Department of Taxes — Sales Tax Registration

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Vermont. Vermont charges a 6% state sales tax; meals and lodging are taxed at 9%. Register with the Vermont Department of Taxes online.

FreeImmediate (online via myVTax)
Official government source
2

Vermont Background Check Requirement

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