Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Baltimore, MD

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Baltimore, Baltimore City County, Maryland.

$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: .

Baltimore / Baltimore City County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Maryland State Department of Education — Child Care Center License

Child care centers in Maryland must be licensed by the Office of Child Care (OCC) within the Maryland State Department of Education. Includes facility inspection and background checks for all staff.

$75 (initial application)6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

Baltimore City Department of Finance — Business License

Baltimore City requires a separate Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. 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

Baltimore City County / Baltimore Building and Fire Safety Inspection

Child care centers must pass building inspections for safety, ADA accessibility, fire suppression, and appropriate child-proofing standards. Conducted by local fire marshal and building department.

$100–$3002–6 weeks
Official government source

Maryland State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Maryland Comptroller — Sales Tax Registration

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in Maryland. Maryland charges a 6% state sales tax. Most services are not taxable; retail product sales are taxable. Register free with the Maryland Comptroller.

FreeImmediate (online via bFile)
Official government source
2

Maryland Background Check Requirement

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