Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Charleston, WV

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Charleston, Kanawha County, West Virginia.

$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: .

Charleston / Kanawha County Requirements

3 requirements
1

West Virginia Department of Health — Child Care Center License

Child care centers in West Virginia must be licensed by the WV Bureau for Children and Families. Requires background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and staff ratio compliance.

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

City of Charleston Business License Division — Business License

Charleston requires a City Business License for all businesses within city limits. The Business License Division processes applications and annual renewals. 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

Kanawha County / Charleston 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

West Virginia State Requirements

2 requirements
1

West Virginia State Tax Department — Business Registration

All businesses operating in West Virginia must register with the State Tax Department. West Virginia charges a 6% state sales tax; municipalities may add up to 1%. The Business Registration Certificate is required before commencing business.

$30 (Business Registration Certificate)Immediate (online via MyTaxes)
Official government source
2

West Virginia Background Check Requirement

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