LOS ALAMITOS : City Tentatively Relaxes Rules for Home-Based Child-Care Businesses

The City Council has tentatively approved an ordinance relaxing some restrictions on residents who run day-care and after-school-care businesses from their homes.

The ordinance, unanimously approved this week, would end the requirement for a public hearing on applications for home-based child care, unless there is a request from a neighbor.

In addition, the ordinance would permit smaller indoor and outdoor play areas in some circumstances, and limit to 12 the number of children who may be cared for in the home.

City officials said the ordinance is intended to comply with state law, which is less restrictive than current city regulations, and encourage more residents to provide child care in their homes.

The council will consider the ordinance for final approval on March 13.

The ordinance applies to so-called large family day-care homes, which provide services for seven to 12 children. Along with homes that care for up to six children, these facilities are permitted in residential areas.

Under the ordinance, the Community Development director may issue a permit for a day-care home after the applicant pays a $425 fee and obtains a license from the Orange County Social Services Department.

If a permit is denied, the applicant may appeal.

Property owners within 100 feet of the proposed child-care facility have the right to request a public hearing to determine the effects on the neighborhood.