DEL Rules (WAC)

The Department of Early Learning (DEL) uses regulations (also known as rules, Washington Administrative Code, or WAC) to oversee:

  • Child care licensing
  • Performance standards for the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP)
  • Subsidy programs that help families pay for child care
  • Background checks for licensed and certified child care providers
  • Hearing rights and procedures to appeal DEL actions

WACs for all state agencies are kept on the Washington State Legislature website. The following are links from DEL's website to the legislative website.

DEL child care licensing rules

DEL regulations set the standards for child care that is licensed or certified by DEL.
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DEL child care subsidy rules

DEL adopts rules that set requirements for families to be eligible for help with paying for child care.
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DEL ECEAP rules

These are the DEL regulations that set the standards for ECEAP.
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Background check rules

DEL does background checks for people applying to work or be involved in DEL-licensed and certified child care.
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Hearing rules

These are the DEL regulations that guide the hearing rights and procedures for individuals appealing certain DEL actions and decisions.
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Public records rules

These are the DEL rules that govern how people request public records from DEL in accordance with the state Public Records Act, RCW 42.56.
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Interested in learning more about DEL rules? You can join a list to receive current rules information. Email the DEL Rules Coordinator or write to:

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