Unlicensed Child Care and Civil Fine Rules

The Department of Early Learning (DEL) is adopting permanent rules for suspected unlicensed child care and new maximum civil penalties (fines) that may be imposed for violating licensing rules. The rules have been revised as a result of Senate Bill 5504, passed in 2011. Emergency rules were filed in 2011 and will remain in effect until permanent rules are adopted effective May 12, 2012.

Permanent rules and concise explanatory statement

Washington Administrative Codes (WAC) 170-151 for school-age centers and 170-295 for child care centers were revised as a result of this process. New WAC chapter 170-296A for family home child care, effective in March 2012, included changes to unlicensed care and civil fine rules for people who provide unlicensed child care.

Interested in learning more about DEL rules? Receive information about current rules, draft rules and notices of rule changes:

By email: Contact the DEL Rules Coordinator

Or by hard copy, write to:

Rules Coordinator
Washington State Department of Early Learning
P.O. Box 40970
Olympia, WA 98504-0970