State Child Care Licensing Division

The State of California regulates child care in an effort to protect the health and safety of participating children’s personal rights. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD), is responsible for licensing child care centers and family child care homes. The state does not regulate certain types of child care, such as persons who care for the children from just one family.

Licensing regulates the number of children to be cared for as well as the number of adult caregivers. Licensing sets staff and caregiver qualifications that are based on education and experience. The caregiver or center must meet specific health, nutrition, maintenance, and safety requirements. For more information about child care licensing visit the Child Care Licensing web page.

To file a complaint regarding a state licensed child care facility , call 1-844-LET US NO (1-844-538-8766). For information about filing a complaint visit the CCLD Complaint Hotline web page or contact the local Regional Office:

Community Care Licensing Division

Palmdale Regional Office

39115 Trade Center Drive, Ste. 201, Palmdale, CA 93550

Tel. (661) 202-3318

Fax (661) 202-3810

For information about how to become a licensed child care provider please our page dedicated to Becoming a Licensed Provider