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1. Do I need to be licensed?

Minnesota Statutes 245A clearly defines who must be licensed as anyone who is providing care to children, unless:

• The children are related to the day care provider
• The children are from one family
• The care is for less than 30 days in any 12-month period

Unless you meet one of these exclusions, you must be licensed in order to provide child care. Operating a child care without a license and outside of the exclusions is a misdemeanor under Minnesota States 245A.03, subdivision 3.

2. How long does it take to get licensed?

This depends on a number of factors. One of them is how quickly you return the completed forms and any information requested by the licensor. If you need a fire marshal inspection, it will take longer to finish the licensing process. Also, conducting the background study may take additional time if you have lived out of state.

3. What is unlicensed care?

Under “Legal Unlicensed Care” limits, a provider is allowed to care for children related to them and children from 1 unrelated family. "Related" means any of the following relationships by marriage, blood, adoption: parent, grandparent, brother, sister, stepparent, stepsister, stepbrother, uncle, aunt, child, niece, nephew.  Related also includes a legally appointed guardian.  A legal unlicensed provider who wishes to care for children receiving county assistance must “register” with Goodhue County Income Maintenance. Interested persons may call 651-385-3200 or Email.

4. How do I make a complaint on a child care home?

Call Goodhue County Social Services at 651-385-3200 and ask to speak to the child care licensor. The licensor will determine if the complaint is a licensing violation.