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1. What does the term "non-resident children" mean?

"Non-resident” children are defined as children who are not the provider’s own children and children not residing in the home

2. What if I care for four or fewer children under the age of 13?

If a Child Care Home Provider is caring for four or fewer children under the age of 13, excluding his or her own children, then the use is not regulated by the Zoning Ordinance and no zoning permit is required. However, a business license still needs to be obtained from the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue.

3. How long does it take to obtain a zoning permit for home child care, and how much does it cost?

The average turn around time, which includes having to adhere to the 30-day notification process mandated by the state of Virginia, is four to six weeks. The cost is $200.

4. What happens during the 30-day waiting period?

Within the 30-day notification period, the application will be assigned a zoning permit number. A site visit will also be scheduled and conducted to verify the location, availability and adequacy of fencing, parking and outdoor play area.

5. What happens if an objection is received during the 30-day waiting period?

If the county receives a written response from an adjacent property owner objecting and/or voicing concern regarding the proposed Child Care Home, then the Zoning Permit cannot be approved without a public hearing. In such instances, the Child Care Home applicant will be notified.  The zoning permit application may be put on hold, while the applicant pursues approval of a Minor Special Exception application by the Board of Supervisors. This application is processed by the Department of Planning and Zoning. 

6. If my zoning permit application is denied, can I appeal?

If the approval of a Minor Special Exception is not pursued and the zoning permit is denied, the application has the option of appealing the denial to the Board of Zoning Appeals pursuant to Section 6-1700 of the Zoning Ordinance. Information regarding the appeal process is online: 

• Appeal to the BZA

7. Does the zoning permit for a Child Care Home have to be renewed annually?

No. The zoning permit for a Child Care Home does not have to be renewed annually.

8. Do I need a new permit if I already have one?

If an existing Child Care Home was legally established, meaning that the provider obtained a county Zoning Permit and continues to operate in the same location and under the terms of the approved Zoning Permit, then the provider does not need to obtain a new Zoning Permit. Any provider who wants to increase the number of children approved under a previous zoning permit must submit a new zoning permit application.

9. Do I need any other permits or licenses for a Child Care Home?

You will need to obtain a business license from the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue . You will also need to contact the Virginia Department of Education for state licensing requirements. Staff members in the Loudoun County Department of Family Services are also available to help.

10. What is the definition of a "play space?"

A play space is an area in which the children may play out of doors but are protected from traffic and other hazards.