Inspection Research

Most Common Daycare Inspection Violations

What Gets Cited and How to Prevent It

Last updated: June 2026

Compiled by the TotReady Research Team

Most childcare citations aren't exotic. The same handful of violations show up on inspection reports across every state: rooms that slip out of ratio during a staff break, a spray bottle left within a toddler's reach, a CPR card that expired last month, a child file missing a current immunization record, a fire drill that happened but was never logged, and an outlet without a cover. Below is what inspectors look for in each category, how to prevent it, and the penalty your state can impose for noncompliance.

Key finding: The childcare violations cited most often by state inspectors are staff-to-child supervision and ratio lapses (especially during breaks), unsecured cleaning supplies and medications, expired CPR and background checks, incomplete child files, missing fire-drill logs, and uncovered electrical outlets. Penalties for noncompliance range from roughly $50 per day per violation in some states to $5,000 per day or per violation in others, with license suspension or revocation for serious or repeated cases.

Method: The violation categories below are compiled by the TotReady Research Team from published state administrative codes and state licensing inspection summaries. The per-state inspection frequency and penalty figures are drawn directly from each state's administrative code with the governing citation shown. Rules change — always verify current requirements with your state's childcare licensing office before relying on any figure here.

The Six Most Common Daycare Violations

Ranked by how frequently they appear on childcare inspection reports. Each is preventable with routine.

Supervision and ratio lapses (especially during breaks)

What inspectors look for
An inspector counts children and counts qualified staff in the room, then checks it against your state's required ratio for the youngest child present. The most common failure isn't understaffing on paper — it's the moment a teacher steps out for a bathroom break, lunch, or a phone call and the room slips out of ratio for ten minutes.
Why it happens
Centers staff to ratio but not to coverage. When one teacher leaves, no float is assigned, so the remaining staff is briefly responsible for too many children.
How to prevent it
Build a written break-coverage plan that names who covers each room during lunches, restroom breaks, and call-outs. Post the ratio for each room at eye level so any staff member can self-check. Keep a float or director qualified to step in.

Unsecured cleaning supplies, chemicals, and medications

What inspectors look for
Inspectors open cabinets at child height. Bleach, sanitizer spray, dishwasher pods, hand sanitizer, diaper cream, and medications must be stored where children cannot reach them — typically locked or above the reach of the oldest child in care.
Why it happens
Staff leave a spray bottle on a counter during cleanup, or a parent's medication sits in a diaper bag in the classroom instead of a locked box.
How to prevent it
Lock all chemicals and medications in a fixed, labeled cabinet. Do a daily walkthrough at a child's eye level. Never leave a spray bottle or sanitizer pump within reach, even during active cleaning.

Expired CPR, First Aid, and required staff training

What inspectors look for
Inspectors pull staff files and check that pediatric CPR and First Aid certifications are current, that pre-service orientation was completed before a staff member was left alone with children, and that annual training hours are documented.
Why it happens
Certifications quietly lapse — CPR cards expire on a two-year cycle and nobody is tracking the renewal date. New hires start on the floor before orientation is finished.
How to prevent it
Keep a single training tracker with every staff member's CPR/First Aid expiration and annual-hour total. Set a 60-day renewal reminder. Don't schedule a new hire alone with children until orientation and the background check clear.

Incomplete or missing child files

What inspectors look for
Each enrolled child needs a complete file: signed enrollment form, current emergency contacts, up-to-date immunization records (or a valid exemption), and signed authorizations. Inspectors pull files at random and cite any that are missing a required document.
Why it happens
Immunization records expire as children get new shots, emergency contacts change and the form is never updated, and a signature gets skipped during a busy enrollment week.
How to prevent it
Use an enrollment checklist that no child starts without completing. Re-verify immunization dates and emergency contacts at least annually. Audit five random files each month the way an inspector would.

Missing fire-drill, emergency-drill, and inspection logs

What inspectors look for
States require documented fire drills (often monthly) and other emergency drills (severe weather, lockdown) on a set schedule. Inspectors ask to see the log with dates, times, and who participated. A drill you ran but didn't write down counts as a drill you didn't run.
Why it happens
Drills happen but the log is an afterthought, or the binder is months behind because nobody owns it.
How to prevent it
Keep a dated drill log in a binder by the front door. Assign one person to record every drill the same day. Match your drill frequency to your state's rule, not to memory.

Uncovered outlets and physical-safety hazards

What inspectors look for
Outlet covers on every accessible receptacle, working smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors, secured furniture and shelving, blocked or covered hazards, and no choking-size objects in infant and toddler rooms. These are quick, visible cites an inspector can write in seconds.
Why it happens
A cover pops off and isn't replaced, a new outlet is added during a renovation and overlooked, or a detector's battery dies.
How to prevent it
Walk the building monthly with a physical-safety checklist: every outlet capped, detectors tested, furniture anchored, hazards out of reach. Replace covers immediately — keep spares on site.

What Noncompliance Costs in Each State

The penalty an inspector can ultimately impose depends on your state's licensing code. Each sentence below states a single state's inspection schedule and penalty authority, with the governing citation, so you can verify it directly.

Alabama schedules inspections as follows: Licenses are valid for two (2) years (Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.02(8)(a)); renewal must be applied for at least 30 days before expiration (660-5-26-.02(6)). Annual compliance visits, and visits to investigate complaints, are made without prior notice (unannounced); pre-licensing visits may be made by appointment (660-5-26-.02(7)). Fire department inspections must be submitted prior to initial licensing and, per the current codified rule, updated at a minimum of every five (5) years (660-5-26-.03(1)); a health department inspection report is required prior to initial licensing, with subsequent inspections as requested (660-5-26-.03(2)). The penalty for noncompliance: Per Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.10 and Code of Ala. 1975, Title 38, Chapter 7: operating a child care facility without a license/six-month permit/approval, or violating any provision of the chapter, is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $1,000, or imprisonment in the county jail not longer than one year, or both (660-5-26-.10(2)(d)2; cases referred to the Attorney General and appropriate District Attorney for prosecution). Refusing to permit a lawful inspection is a Class C misdemeanor (fine not more than $500 or imprisonment in county jail not more than three months) (660-5-26-.10(2)(e)3). Administrative/adverse actions for noncompliance include deficiency reports, corrective action plans, restriction/modification of the license, probationary status (maximum 6 months), suspension (no longer than 120 days), and revocation of the license/permit/approval (660-5-26-.10(1) and 660-5-26-.10(2)(a)-(c)). Continuing to operate after license expiration is reported to the District Attorney and Attorney General (660-5-26-.02(6)(e)).

Alaska schedules inspections as follows: No fixed numeric inspection interval is set in 7 AAC 57. The department's monitoring/inspection authority is in 7 AAC 57.040 (Inspections and evaluations by an individual or agency) and 7 AAC 57.900 (Compliance and enforcement) under AS 47.32; the department monitors and investigates facilities for compliance and conducts complaint-driven investigations, and may conduct announced and unannounced on-site monitoring. Licenses are issued/renewed on a biennial (2-year) basis under 7 AAC 57.030 (Application for license; biennial renewal). The penalty for noncompliance: Enforcement is governed by 7 AAC 57.900 under AS 47.32 (Centralized Licensing). Under AS 47.32.140, a civil fine may not exceed $2,500 a day for each day of a continuing violation, or $25,000 for a single violation, and does not preclude a criminal penalty. The department may also take enforcement actions including license conditions, provisional licensure, suspension, revocation, or non-renewal (grounds at 7 AAC 57.035, Grounds for nonrenewal or revocation of license). Failure to report suspected child abuse/neglect is separately a class A misdemeanor under AS 47.17.068.

Arizona schedules inspections as follows: Annual; unannounced visits; complaint investigations The penalty for noncompliance: Fines; corrective action; license revocation under ARS §36-897.01

Arkansas schedules inspections as follows: Unannounced on-site monitoring visits at least three (3) times per year for child care centers; family/registered homes one to three times annually depending on program type. Conducted by the Office of Early Childhood Child Care Licensing Unit (Licensing Specialists). Statutory inspection/investigation authority: Ark. Code Ann. § 20-78-214 (Investigating child care facilities) and MLR Section 108 Licensing Investigations. NOTE: the 'three times per year' frequency is the Division's stated monitoring policy (per DESE/ADE), not a number fixed in § 20-78-214. The penalty for noncompliance: Civil monetary penalties under Ark. Code Ann. § 20-78-203 (Penalties): Class A violations (essential standards — fire, health, safety, nutrition, staff-to-child ratio, space; operating unlicensed = Class A) = $100 per violation; Class B violations (administrative standards) = $50 per violation; each day of noncompliance is a separate offense and aggregate fines in any one month shall not exceed $500. Criminal penalty (§ 20-78-203): any person violating the subchapter or assisting a violation is guilty of a violation and upon conviction fined not less than $25.00 and not more than $100.00. License actions — the Division may issue a provisional license, deny, suspend, or revoke a license under Ark. Code Ann. § 20-78-213 and MLR Section 103 (items on Suspension/Revocation) and Section 105 (Appeal of Licensing Actions). Unpaid fines/penalties are a debt owed the State collectible by civil action; collected fines/penalties are special revenues deposited to the Child Care Fund (Ark. Code Ann. §§ 20-78-219 and 20-78-224).

California schedules inspections as follows: Annual unannounced inspection; additional inspections following complaints The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $150/day per deficiency; license suspension or revocation; criminal penalties for certain violations under Health & Safety Code §1596.885

Colorado schedules inspections as follows: Fire department and local/CDPHE health department inspections are required before the original license, after qualifying renovations, and at least every two (2) years thereafter (8 CCR 1402-1, Rule 2.122 - Fire Inspections, Health Inspections, and Zoning Codes). CDEC Licensing Specialists also conduct routine licensing monitoring visits, with frequency adjusted based on risk/compliance history. Emergency drills are required separately under Rule 2.138: fire drills monthly; tornado drills monthly March through October; and lockdown/active-shooter drills at least quarterly. The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalties under 8 CCR 1402-1, Rule 2.113 (Civil Penalties and Injunctions), implementing the Child Care Licensing Act at C.R.S. 26.5-5-317: for each violation, fines up to $250 the first day, $500 the second day, and $1,000 per day for the third and subsequent days, to a maximum of $10,000. The same schedule applies to unlicensed operation and to intentionally false statements/reports. Operating after a cease-and-desist order can result in a fine up to $500, up to 10 days in jail, or both. Penalties are imposed only after a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge under Article 4 of Title 24, C.R.S., and do not preclude denial, suspension, revocation, probation, or non-renewal of the license, or injunctive proceedings under C.R.S. 26.5-5-320.

Connecticut schedules inspections as follows: The Commissioner of Early Childhood (or designee) shall make an unannounced visit, inspection or investigation of each licensed child care center and group child care home at least once each year (CGS Sec. 19a-80(b)(3)). At least once every two years the local health director (or designee) shall also inspect each licensed facility. Complaint investigations and follow-up inspections occur as needed, with corrective action plans for cited violations. The penalty for noncompliance: Operating a child care center or group child care home without a current and valid license is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $100 per day for each day of unlicensed operation under CGS Sec. 19a-87(a), imposed after written notice and an opportunity for a hearing under chapter 54. Under CGS Sec. 19a-87a, the Commissioner of Early Childhood has discretion to refuse to issue, suspend, or revoke a license, or take other enforcement action set forth in regulation, after notice and opportunity for a hearing as provided in CGS Sec. 19a-84.

Delaware schedules inspections as follows: OCCL has authority to inspect centers, grounds, and files (14 DE Admin. Code 933 §5, Authority to Inspect): visits occur prior to initial licensure, at renewal, and on an as-needed basis including complaint investigations under §12 and enforcement-period visits under §13. The licensee self-conducts monthly evacuation drills (§66.2) and a monthly fire prevention inspection (§66.4). The penalty for noncompliance: Under 14 Del.C. §3005A (Penalties for violations, Delaware Child Care Act): OCCL may impose civil penalties not to exceed $1,000 for each violation of §3004A; a person who operates a center without a license may be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned not more than 6 months, or both (the $1,000 / 6-month criminal tier took effect January 1, 2023). Administratively, under 14 DE Admin. Code 933 §13 (Enforcement Actions), OCCL may issue a corrective action plan, warning of probation (initially up to 6 months, renewable), probation (renewable), immediate license suspension (when children's health, safety, or well-being is in serious/imminent danger), revocation, or denial of a license application.

Florida schedules inspections as follows: Annual inspection; additional risk-based inspections The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $100/day per Class I violation; up to $50/day per Class II violation; license revocation under Florida Statutes §402.310

Georgia schedules inspections as follows: Annual; unannounced inspections at least twice per year for high-risk facilities The penalty for noncompliance: Administrative sanctions; fines; license denial, suspension, or revocation under Georgia Code §20-1A-43

Hawaii schedules inspections as follows: Authorized DHS representatives (and parents/guardians of enrolled children) may visit a facility at any time during hours of operation for monitoring and inspection (HAR §17-892.2-3(a)); renewal requires departmental re-evaluation including inspection. Licensing period (HAR §17-892.2-3(j)): 1 year for new applicants and providers licensed less than four years, and up to 2 years for providers licensed four years or more (unless sooner suspended/revoked); a provisional license may be issued for up to 6 months. Renewal application due at least 90 days before expiration. Background-check re-screening occurs annually (HAR §17-892.2-3(d)). The penalty for noncompliance: Statutory penalty under HRS §346-156 (Penalty; remedies): any person/entity violating any provision of HRS ch. 346 Part VIII (Child Care) or any rule adopted thereunder shall be fined up to $1,000 for each day of violation; the fine may be up to $3,000 for each day for a violation of HRS §346-161 or §346-171. The department may enforce via administrative and/or judicial proceedings. HAR §17-892.2-4 (Fines): operating a child care facility without a license is a violation punishable by a fine not to exceed the maximum allowable under law; additional fineable offenses (which may also lead to denial/suspension/revocation) include exceeding licensed capacity, violating staff-child ratios, improperly certifying staff credentials, failing to comply with timely background-check requests (ch. 17-801), allowing conditions of risk/imminent danger to children or resulting injuries, and failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect. A license shall be immediately suspended where conditions constitute an imminent danger to children's health, welfare, or safety (HAR §17-892.2-5(b)); denial/suspension/revocation procedures and appeal rights are in HAR §17-892.2-5.

Idaho schedules inspections as follows: Health and safety inspections are conducted annually by a qualified inspector designated by the Department and are unannounced (IDAPA 16.06.03.380). Fire safety inspections are completed by the local fire official or designee (a fire department or fire district official) at application/renewal (IDAPA 16.06.03.360.01; Idaho Code § 39-1104). A daycare license must be renewed every two (2) years (IDAPA 16.06.03.121.10). The Department may access the premises and records for reinspection at any time during the licensing period (IDAPA 16.06.03.420.01). Immunization-compliance inspections may be conducted with at least 30 days' notice (Idaho Code § 39-1118(5)). The penalty for noncompliance: Operating a daycare facility without first obtaining a basic daycare license is a misdemeanor (Idaho Code § 39-1115(1)); if found operating without a license, the licensing agency may grant a grace period of no more than 60 days to come into compliance (§ 39-1115(2)). Operating a family daycare home for 4+ children without obtaining and passing the required criminal history check is a misdemeanor (§ 39-1115(3)) — on an initial citation, the complaint is dismissed if the person makes the required applications within 20 days. Providing daycare services after a guilty finding for a § 39-1113 disqualifying offense is a misdemeanor (§ 39-1115(4)). Violations are prosecuted by the county prosecuting attorney (§ 39-1116). The Department may deny, suspend, or revoke a license for noncompliance (Idaho Code § 39-1113; application denial procedures at IDAPA 16.06.03.123). Idaho Code Title 39 Ch. 11 sets no specific dollar fine schedule; general misdemeanor penalties apply (commonly cited as Idaho Code § 18-113, up to 6 months jail and/or up to $1,000 fine — that general-penalty cross-reference not independently verified).

Illinois schedules inspections as follows: Annual; complaint investigations as needed The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $5,000; license suspension or revocation under 225 ILCS 10/9

Indiana schedules inspections as follows: The division (FSSA/OECOSL) and the State Fire Marshal must make annual on-site inspections of each licensed child care center and keep written records of their monitoring (IC 12-17.2-4-15). The licensee must cooperate with announced and unannounced inspections (IC 12-17.2-4-16). The division investigates compliance at a reasonable time, in announced or unannounced visits, through onsite inspections, record reading, observation, and interviewing (IC 12-17.2-4-7). Licenses expire two (2) years after issuance unless revoked, modified to probationary/suspended status, or voluntarily returned (IC 12-17.2-4-12). Custodial parents/guardians may make unscheduled visits at any time the center is in operation (IC 12-17.2-4-17). The penalty for noncompliance: General civil penalty: in addition to other penalties under the chapter, the division may impose a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for a violation of the article (IC 12-17.2-4-34); civil penalties are deposited in the division of family resources child care fund (IC 12-17.2-2-3). Safe-sleep escalating per-violation schedule (IC 12-17.2-4-4.1, applied per inspection within a licensure period): 1st inspection = formal warning letter + intent to take action + civil penalty; 2nd = $50 per violation; 3rd = $75 per violation; 4th = license probation up to 6 months + $100 per violation; 5th = license suspended or revoked for 1 year + $250 per violation; failure to pay may result in license revocation for up to 2 years (IC 12-17.2-4-4.1(c)). Operating without a license: civil penalty not to exceed $100 per day in a civil action, plus injunctive relief (IC 12-17.2-4-29); a knowing or intentional violation of the chapter is a Class B misdemeanor (IC 12-17.2-4-35). Additional sanctions: license suspension up to 6 months or revocation (IC 12-17.2-4-33), denial of license (IC 12-17.2-4-10), and emergency/temporary cease-operation order for violations posing an immediate threat to a child's life or well-being (IC 12-17.2-4-18.7).

Iowa schedules inspections as follows: At least one unannounced on-site visit each calendar year, plus an unannounced on-site visit for all initial and renewal license applications and upon valid complaints, per Iowa Admin. Code r. 441-109.3 (109.3(1)). VERIFIED. The penalty for noncompliance: A license may be denied (Iowa Admin. Code r. 441-109.2(3)) or revoked/suspended (441-109.2(4)) for noncompliance with Chapter 109 standards; adverse-action notice and appeal rights under 441-109.2(6) (per 441-Ch. 7 and 441-subrule 16.2(3)). Operating a child care CENTER without a license is a SERIOUS misdemeanor under Iowa Code 237A.19(1), with each day of continuing violation after conviction or after certified-mail notice from the department constituting a separate offense (operating a child development home or child care home unlawfully is a simple misdemeanor under 237A.19(2)-(3)). The department may also seek temporary or permanent injunctive relief under Iowa Code 237A.20. (Corrected: draft cited 'simple misdemeanor' and 109.2(4)/109.2(5) for denial/revocation.)

Kansas schedules inspections as follows: At least once every 12 months (K.S.A. 65-512(a)). KDHE shall also conduct an inspection upon receiving a complaint, prior to issuance of a license for any new facility, may inspect a facility with a record of repeated complaints or serious violations at any time, and shall inspect any facility serving military families receiving military child care assistance every 12 months (K.S.A. 65-512(b)(2)). The penalty for noncompliance: Criminal: a violation of article 5 of chapter 65 is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $5 nor more than $50, and each day the person fails or refuses to comply is a separate offense (K.S.A. 65-514). Civil fine: KDHE may assess a civil fine not exceeding $500 per violation of statute or rules and regulations that significantly and adversely affect the health, safety, or sanitation of children, with each day of a continuing violation a separate violation (K.S.A. 65-526). Administrative: KDHE may limit, modify, suspend, or revoke a license or temporary permit for violations (K.S.A. 65-523; emergency suspension prior to hearing under K.S.A. 65-524); a licensee who is a repeat (three or more times) violator or who is found to have contributed to the death or serious bodily harm of a child shall be permanently prohibited from applying for a new license or seeking employment under another licensee (K.S.A. 65-504(e)). Willful and knowing failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect is a class B misdemeanor (K.S.A. 38-2223).

Kentucky schedules inspections as follows: A child-care center shall allow the cabinet or its designee, another agency with regulatory authority, and a parent of an enrolled child unannounced access during hours of operation; inspections of licensed centers are unannounced (922 KAR 2:090). Where a license is granted after the seven-year period referenced in 922 KAR 2:090 Section 5(a), the licensee serves a two-year probationary period during which the center shall be inspected no less than semi-annually. (Note: contrary to the draft, the 2-year probationary/semi-annual-inspection rule is not a blanket requirement for all newly licensed centers — it is tied to that re-issuance scenario.) The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalties under 922 KAR 2:190 (authorized by KRS 199.990): Type A violation (creates harm or imminent danger) — no more than $1,000 for each occurrence, correctable within five (5) working days; Type B violation (concern or risk, not imminent danger) — $250 for each occurrence, with a corrective action plan due within fifteen (15) days. Monetary credits: $50 if no violations were cited during the three years prior, $50 for a timely accepted corrective action plan, and a 25 percent credit of the civil penalty for waiving appeal rights. Continued or serious noncompliance can result in denial, suspension, probation, or revocation of the license (922 KAR 2:090, Sections 16–17). Appeal rights via 922 KAR 2:090 Sections 19–20 (form OIG-DRCC-02).

Louisiana schedules inspections as follows: After initial licensure, inspections shall be conducted as deemed necessary by the department at regular intervals not to exceed one year (i.e., at least annually) and without notice to the early learning center, per La. Admin. Code tit. 28, Pt. CLXI, §713 (Renewal and Other Inspection Procedures). An initial inspection is required before licensure under Chapter 7 (§701/§703). The penalty for noncompliance: Civil fines under La. Admin. Code tit. 28, Pt. CLXI, §1105 (Identified Violations and Fines): for a second violation/deficiency of the same standard within a 24-month period (not resulting in revocation), a fine of up to $250 per day for each day of the violation, not to exceed $2,000 within a consecutive 12-month period. Continued or serious noncompliance can result in denial, revocation, or non-renewal of the license (Chapter 13). Annual licensure fees range from $25 (15 or fewer children) to $250 (101 or more children) per §313 (type I church/religious centers exempt). Separately, a mandated reporter who knowingly and willfully fails to report suspected child abuse/neglect is fined up to $500 and/or imprisoned up to 6 months (La. R.S. 14:403 / La. Children's Code art. 609-610); enhanced penalties up to $3,000 and/or 3 years apply for failure to report sexual abuse or abuse resulting in serious injury/death.

Maine schedules inspections as follows: The Department generally conducts unannounced site inspections. Routine inspections occur annually after the date of initial licensure (10-148 C.M.R. ch. 32, § 4(A)(2)); inspections also occur upon application (§ 4(A)(1)), on capacity/service changes (§ 4(A)(3)), and to investigate complaints or suspected abuse/neglect (§ 4(A)(4)). The Department may conduct more frequent inspections at its discretion. The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalties under 10-148 C.M.R. ch. 32, § 21 and 22 M.R.S. § 7702-B: Operating a child care facility without a license - not less than $500 nor more than $10,000 per day, each day a separate violation (22 M.R.S. § 7702-B(3)); violations regarding child-to-staff ratios - not more than $500 per incident or $500 per number of children above the limit, or both (§ 21(B)(3)(b)); violations regarding records/disclosure - $500 per violation (§ 21(B)(3)(a)). The Department may also impose intermediate sanctions and may refuse to issue/renew, condition, suspend (including emergency suspension), or revoke a license, with appeal rights under § 21.

Maryland schedules inspections as follows: Routine unannounced inspections required at least once within each 12-month period after an initial or continuing license is issued; an agency representative may make inspections without prior notice during the center's hours of operation (COMAR 13A.16.17.02). An announced inspection precedes issuance of an initial or continuing license. Complaint-based inspections occur as needed (COMAR 13A.16.17.01). The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each violation; each day a violation occurs or the center operates illegally is a separate violation; the total amount of civil penalties imposed in a civil action may not exceed $5,000 (COMAR 13A.16.17.08). Criminal penalties for operating without a license (misdemeanor): up to $1,500 for a first violation and up to $2,500 for a second or subsequent violation. Additional enforcement under COMAR 13A.16.17: warnings (.03), intermediate sanctions (.04), suspension (.05), emergency suspension (.06), and license revocation (.07).

Massachusetts schedules inspections as follows: Annual; unannounced monitoring visits; complaint investigations The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $1,000/day; license suspension or revocation under MGL c.15D §11

Michigan schedules inspections as follows: Annual; complaint investigations; random unannounced visits The penalty for noncompliance: Fines; license refusal, suspension, or revocation under MCL 722.128

Minnesota schedules inspections as follows: At least one unannounced licensing inspection of each licensed child care center once per calendar year (statutory authority Minn. Stat. 142B.10, subd. 11 ('Inspections; waiver'); predecessor Minn. Stat. 245A.04/245A.16). New centers in their first year receive four DCYF 'Early and Often' visits: an initial scheduled technical-assistance visit approximately 3 months after the license is issued, with the remaining first-year visits unannounced. The penalty for noncompliance: For child care centers under the DCYF chapter, the commissioner may issue a correction order or conditional license (Minn. Stat. 142B.16), and may suspend or revoke a license, impose a fine, or seek other sanctions (Minn. Stat. 142B.18, 'SANCTIONS'). Fine schedule (Minn. Stat. 142B.18, subd. 4(c)(4); parallel/predecessor Minn. Stat. 245A.07, subd. 3(c)(4)): $1,000 for each determination of maltreatment of a child under ch. 260E; $5,000 for each determination of serious maltreatment; $200 for each occurrence of a violation of law or rule governing health, safety, or supervision (including staff-to-child ratio violations and background-study noncompliance); and $100 for each occurrence of any other violation. In lieu of a correction order, the commissioner may issue a 'fix-it ticket' for eligible non-imminent-danger violations correctable at inspection or within 48 hours (Minn. Stat. 142B.17, 'Child Care Fix-it Ticket'; predecessor 245A.065). Failure of a mandated reporter to report suspected child maltreatment is a misdemeanor (Minn. Stat. 260E.08; reporting duty under 260E.06).

Mississippi schedules inspections as follows: An agency representative inspects each child care facility prior to issuing or renewing a license to assure compliance — Rule 1.2.5; licenses may be renewed annually (not to exceed one year) — Rule 1.2.7. A facility is also subject to inspection at any time at the discretion of the licensing agency — Rule 1.1.2(4). MSDH maintains a complaint hotline and investigates each complaint received — Rule 1.1.2(5). Inspection findings are recorded on an official inspection form and furnished to the operator/director at the time the inspection is made — Rule 1.2.6. The penalty for noncompliance: Monetary penalties under Rule 1.25.9 (authority Miss. Code Ann. §43-20-8). Class I violations (e.g., failure to prevent death/burns/dismemberment/permanent disability of a child; child left unattended) — $500 first occurrence, $1,000 each subsequent occurrence of the same violation; two Class I citations on separate occasions may cause suspension/revocation (Rule 1.25.9(2)–(3)). Class II violations (e.g., personnel requirements/records, emergency preparedness/evacuation planning, staff-to-child ratio/group size/supervision, discipline and guidance, exceeding capacity, releasing a child to an unauthorized individual, environmental health, failure to report a serious occurrence or communicable disease, transportation, immunization documentation in child/employee records, nutrition standards) — $50 first occurrence, $100 each subsequent occurrence within the same licensure term; four Class II citations on separate inspection dates may cause suspension/revocation (Rule 1.25.9(4)–(5)). Class III violations (any violation not listed as Class I or II) — $25 each occurrence (Rule 1.25.9(6)). Penalties payable within 30 business days; appeal of a monetary penalty must be filed within 10 business days (Rule 1.25.9(7)–(8)). No license is granted or renewed for an operator with outstanding monetary penalties (Rule 1.25.9(9)). License may also be denied, suspended (including emergency suspension), restricted, or revoked under Subchapter 25 (Rules 1.25.1–1.25.2), and MSDH may seek an injunction (Rule 1.25.7).

Missouri schedules inspections as follows: Per DESE Office of Childhood: licensed child care facilities are inspected at least twice annually by the Section for Child Care Compliance for compliance monitoring, plus at least one annual fire safety inspection and at least one annual environmental sanitation inspection. The provider must permit department access to the facility, premises, and records during all inspections (5 CSR 25-500.042(20)). NOTE: DESE's official inspection-process page does not explicitly characterize the compliance visits as 'unannounced,' and the draft's cite to 19 CSR 30-62.032(1)(Y) for unannounced visits could not be confirmed under the current Title 5 rule. The penalty for noncompliance: Per RSMo 210.245: violating any provision of sections 210.201 to 210.245 (child care licensing law) is a class C misdemeanor for a first offense with a fine not to exceed $750; subsequent offenses are a class A misdemeanor with a fine up to $2,000 per day, not to exceed a total of $10,000. Operating an unlicensed, nonexempt child care facility carries a civil penalty of not less than $750 and not more than $2,000. The department may also deny, suspend, place on probation, or revoke a license for noncompliance (RSMo 210.221 / 5 CSR 25-500.042). Failure by a mandated reporter to report suspected child abuse/neglect is a separate offense (RSMo 210.115 / 210.165).

Montana schedules inspections as follows: The department must visit and inspect all licensed and registered child care facilities annually, except RCE providers, and may conduct unannounced inspections (FFN providers receive scheduled inspections) (ARM 37.96.118, Facilities Inspections; statutory basis 52-2-733, MCA, Periodic Visits to Facilities by Department). Before a provider may care for children the department conducts a pre-inspection, then issues a 90-day provisional license/registration during which it observes the facility while children are in care before removing provisional status and issuing a regular license/registration (ARM 37.96.111, Issuing a License or Registration). Annual State Fire Marshal and local public-health authority approvals are also required (ARM 37.96.602). The penalty for noncompliance: Establishing or maintaining a day-care facility without first obtaining a license or registration certificate is a misdemeanor, punishable upon conviction by a fine not to exceed $500 (52-2-741(1), MCA). The department may report the results of its investigation to the attorney general or the county attorney for prosecution and request that an injunction be issued against the facility until a license or certificate is issued (52-2-741(2), MCA). For licensed/registered providers the department applies progressive enforcement, including corrective action and denial, suspension, revocation, modification, or reduction to probationary status of a license or registration (ARM subchapter 37.96.11, Compliance and Enforcement, incl. ARM 37.96.1101 Complaints and Investigations and ARM 37.96.1116 Fair Hearing).

Nebraska schedules inspections as follows: Initial on-site inspection within 30 days of receipt of a completed provisional-license application (391 NAC 3-005.01), and an unannounced provisional-to-operating inspection within 30 days of receipt of the operating-license application (391 NAC 3-005.02). Routine unannounced inspections (391 NAC 3-005.03 Annual and Semi-Annual License Inspections): a minimum of once each year for centers licensed for 29 or fewer children, and a minimum of twice each year for centers licensed for 30 or more children. Follow-up inspections, if conducted, occur no later than 60 days after the original inspection (391 NAC 3-005.04); discretionary monitoring inspections are also permitted (391 NAC 3-005.05). Complaint investigations are conducted under 391 NAC 3-005.07. (Note: the official PDF table of contents contains a typographical numbering error listing the annual/semi-annual provision as '3-004.03'; the section body correctly numbers it 3-005.03.) The penalty for noncompliance: Under 391 NAC 3-008.02 (Types of Disciplinary Action), DHHS may impose any one or a combination of: (1) a probationary license; (2) suspension or revocation of a provisional, probationary, or operating license; (3) a civil penalty of up to $5 per child - based on the number of children the program is authorized to care for on the effective date of the finding of violation - for each day the program is in violation; (4) restrictions on new enrollment; (5) restrictions/limits on the number or age of children served; or (6) other restrictions on the type of service provided. Unpaid fines constitute a debt to the State of Nebraska, collectible by lien foreclosure or court action in district court, and are remitted to the State Treasurer for credit to the permanent school fund (391 NAC 3-008.03). DHHS holds emergency power to issue an order without prior notice or hearing - including an immediate prohibition on the care of children - when an emergency requires immediate action to protect a child's physical well-being and safety; an affected person is afforded a hearing within 10 days of application (391 NAC 3-008.04). Statutory basis: Child Care Licensing Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. ss 71-1908 to 71-1923. ALL VERIFIED VERBATIM against the official 391 NAC 3 PDF.

Nevada schedules inspections as follows: Inspections may be unannounced and must be made at least two times during the 12-month licensing period (i.e., approximately once every 6 months), per NAC 432A.190 (Inspections; investigations) and NRS 432A.180. Fire safety inspections by the State Fire Marshal (or designee) are conducted at least annually per NRS 432A.180 (Inspection of child care facilities and small child care establishments by Division, State Fire Marshal and Administrator; publication and availability of reports). The penalty for noncompliance: For licensure violations, the Division may, under NRS 432A.186 (Administrative sanctions): impose an administrative penalty of not more than $1,000 per day for each violation, together with interest not to exceed 10 percent per annum; prohibit the facility from accepting additional children; limit the number of children to which the facility may provide care; appoint temporary management; or any combination of these sanctions. Under NRS 432A.190 the Division may deny, suspend, or revoke a license for any chapter/regulation violation and may impose an administrative fine, with an opportunity for a hearing. Separately, operating a child care facility without a license or with a suspended license may result in a court-imposed civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for a first offense and not less than $10,000 nor more than $25,000 for a second or subsequent offense (NRS 432A.210 — Operation of child care facility without license or with suspended license: cease and desist order; injunctive relief; civil penalties; use of money).

New Hampshire schedules inspections as follows: A licensing coordinator conducts a yearly unannounced monitoring visit at every licensed program, plus an additional unannounced visit prior to license expiration (licenses are valid 3 years per RSA 170-E:8, I). Complaint-based investigations may occur at any time under He-C 4002.42. The penalty for noncompliance: Administrative fines under N.H. Admin. Code He-C 4002.45 (verified): non-compliance with license provisions $200 plus $100/day (repeat $500 plus $100/day); operating without a license $500 plus $100/day; operating after expiration/voluntary closure $1,000 plus $100/day; operating after suspension/revocation $2,000 plus $500/day; failure to submit reports/records $500 per offense plus $100/day per offense; false/misleading documents $1,000 per offense; failure to cooperate with visits $1,000; failure to supervise children $750; abuse/neglect or failure to protect $1,000; corporal punishment $1,000; inappropriate discipline $500; endangering children $1,000 per citation plus $200/day; physical injury/jeopardy $2,000 per non-compliance plus $500/day; background check failure $500 plus $100/day. The Department may also deny, suspend, or revoke a license under He-C 4002.44 / RSA 170-E:11.

New Jersey schedules inspections as follows: Annual; complaint-based; unannounced follow-up visits The penalty for noncompliance: Fines; license suspension or revocation under NJSA 30:5B-30

New Mexico schedules inspections as follows: The licensing authority conducts on-site surveys at least twice a year (semi-annually) in each licensed child care facility, per 8.16.2.17(A) NMAC. Additional surveys/visits are conducted to provide technical assistance, verify correction of deficiencies, or investigate complaints; surveys may be announced or unannounced (8.16.2.17(A),(F)). A corrective action plan must be submitted within 10 working days of the survey (8.16.2.17(C) NMAC). Complaint investigations are initiated within 24 hours (Priority 1), 3 working days (Priority 2), or 5 working days (Priority 3) per 8.16.2.18(C) NMAC. The penalty for noncompliance: Civil monetary penalties under 8.16.2.13 NMAC are assessed by deficiency class at the rate of the most serious deficiency cited: Class A deficiency — not less than $500 and not greater than $5,000; Class B deficiency — not less than $300 and not greater than $3,000; Class C deficiency — not less than $100 and not greater than $500 (8.16.2.13(C)). The base penalty is assessed once per survey/investigation (8.16.2.13(B)). Factors considered include death/serious injury to a child, abuse/neglect, violations immediately jeopardizing child health/safety, and repeat or uncorrected violations (8.16.2.13(A)). Separately, under 8.16.2.12 NMAC the licensing authority may revoke, suspend, restrict, deny, or non-renew a license, reduce star status, impose conditions of operation, or issue a cease-and-desist letter; the department secretary may suspend operation for a period not to exceed 15 days where children's health/safety is in danger (8.16.2.12). Obstruction of an investigation may subject the licensee to sanctions up to revocation; the licensing authority may file criminal charges or pursue civil remedies (8.16.2.18(D), 8.16.2.18(E)(3)).

New York schedules inspections as follows: Annual inspection plus unannounced visits; complaint-based inspections The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $500/violation; corrective action plan; revocation under Social Services Law §390

North Carolina schedules inspections as follows: Annual; frequency increases for lower-rated facilities (1-5 star) The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalty up to $5,000/day; license revocation under NC General Statutes §110-103

North Dakota schedules inspections as follows: Licensed and self-declared child care programs receive one announced (scheduled) and one unannounced (drop-in) monitoring/inspection visit per year, verifying compliance with health and safety standards (per ND HHS Early Childhood Licensing monitoring practice; the once-announced/once-unannounced frequency is a Department policy, not a statutory term). The Department's inspection authority is established under N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-08; investigation authority under N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-07; and reinspection authority under N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-07.3. Annual fire inspections by local or state fire authorities also apply under N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-17(1). The penalty for noncompliance: Criminal: Any person or entity that violates any provision of N.D.C.C. ch. 50-11.1 (including operating without a required license) is guilty of a class B misdemeanor (N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-13). Civil: an owner who continues to provide services without a required license after written notice is subject to a civil penalty of $50/day per day of operation without a license (N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-03(9)). Administrative fiscal sanctions for uncorrected violations after the correction deadline, per N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-30: $25/day for the most serious tier (violations of N.D.C.C. ch. 50-11.1; staffing/ratios 75-03-10-08(2); substitute staffing 75-03-10-09(12); fire inspections 75-03-10-17; sanitation/safety items 75-03-10-18(6),(9),(13); space/lighting 75-03-10-19; discipline 75-03-10-23; conviction/background 75-03-10-27; abuse/neglect 75-03-10-28); $15/day for a second tier (director/staff qualifications 75-03-10-10 and -12, transportation 75-03-10-15, listed sanitation items 75-03-10-18(2),(3),(4),(7),(8),(11),(19), program items 75-03-10-20(3),(8),(19), and infant care 75-03-10-24(1)(a)); and $5/day for any other violation of the chapter. By statute, the fiscal sanction for any specific violation may not exceed $100 per day of noncompliance (N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-07.4); sanctions accrue/accumulate per N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-07.5 and are recovered per 50-11.1-07.6 until the Department receives notice the violation is corrected. The Department may also suspend, deny, or revoke the license (N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-05; N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-07.8, 50-11.1-09, 50-11.1-10).

Ohio schedules inspections as follows: Annual inspection; unannounced visits; complaint investigations The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $500/day; license revocation under Ohio Revised Code §5104.05

Oklahoma schedules inspections as follows: Unannounced monitoring visits: minimum of three (3) per year for programs operating full-year, and two (2) per year for programs operating less than a full-year, per OAC 340:110-1-9 (Case management) [verified verbatim]. Licensing staff varies visit times, including a lunch observation and an evening visit to centers with extended hours [verified verbatim]. Fire inspections at least every two years by the local/state fire authority, and health inspections at least every two years by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), per OAC 340:110-3-276 [verified verbatim]. Complaint-triggered investigations conducted under OAC 340:110-1-9.2 (Risk Level I within 24 hrs / II within 10 days / III within 15 days) [verified]. The penalty for noncompliance: Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act (10 O.S. §§ 401-418). (1) General violation: misdemeanor on conviction, punished per 21 O.S. § 10, and conviction is grounds for license revocation (10 O.S. § 410) [verified verbatim]. (2) DHS administrative enforcement: emergency order, license revocation/denial, and injunctive proceedings (10 O.S. § 407) [verified]; aggrieved licensees may appeal to district court within 10 days (10 O.S. § 408) [verified]. (3) CLEET-certified officer citation fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 for every day a facility continues to operate/receive children after an emergency order is issued or after a license is denied/revoked (10 O.S. § 407(F)); one-half of fines go to the Quality of Care Development Fund (10 O.S. § 407(G), fund established at § 410.1) [verified verbatim]. (4) Background/sex-offender violations under 10 O.S. § 404.1(F) [CORRECTED from draft's § 404.2(F)]: emergency order, license revocation/denial, injunctive proceedings, administrative penalty not to exceed $10,000, and referral for criminal proceedings (§ 404.1(F)(2)); sex offenders who work with/provide services to children or reside in a facility commit a felony punishable by up to 5 years and a fine up to $5,000 (§ 404.1(F)(1)); violators may also be liable for civil damages (§ 404.1(F)(3)) [all verified verbatim]. Injunction available via the Attorney General or a district attorney (10 O.S. § 409) [verified verbatim]. Note: § 404.2 is 'Demarion's Law — Short title' only and contains none of these penalty provisions; the draft's § 404.2(F) was incorrect.

Oregon schedules inspections as follows: A regular certified child care center certification is valid for no more than 1 year (OAR 414-305-0140), so certification is renewed annually. CCLD may conduct unannounced monitoring visits at least annually to determine compliance (OAR 414-305-1600(1)), and may inspect at any time in response to complaints or investigations (OAR 414-075-0130; OAR 414-305-1600). Health and safety, sanitation/environmental health, and fire inspections are required at certification and renewal; fire protection must meet requirements of the fire code official / Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OAR 414-305-0860) — OAR 414-305 does not specify a fixed fire-inspection interval. The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalties under OAR 414-305-1620: CCLD may assess up to $2,500 per violation of the rules or terms and conditions of certification (414-305-1620(1)). For a serious violation (as defined in OAR 414-305-0100(49)): civil penalty not to exceed $2,500 for each violation (414-305-1620(3)). For a non-serious violation: civil penalty of $800 for each violation (414-305-1620(4)). Operating an uncertified facility subject to certification: separate civil penalty for each day, not to exceed $1,500 per day of operation (414-305-1620(5)); see also OAR 414-075-0230 (Exempt Prohibition, Unlawful Care, Civil Penalties). In addition to civil penalties, CCLD may deny, suspend, or revoke certification (OAR 414-305-1610); a center denied or revoked for cause is ineligible to reapply for 5 years from the final order (OAR 414-305-1610(9)).

Pennsylvania schedules inspections as follows: Annual unannounced inspection; complaint-based inspections The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $5,000/day; provisional, suspended, or revoked certificate under Human Services Code §1026

Rhode Island schedules inspections as follows: Unannounced monitoring visits at least two (2) times per year for child care centers (218-RICR-70-00-1.7(F)); the DHS Director/designee and the Office of the Child Advocate also have right of entrance, file access, and authority to investigate complaints. Initial licensure proceeds through required facility inspections (fire, lead, radon, water, food safety, etc.) under 218-RICR-70-00-1.8(A). The penalty for noncompliance: Per R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.5-7(b): operating or conducting a child day care facility without a license, after license revocation/suspension, or refusing reasonable inspection is a misdemeanor, fined not more than $500 for each week the facility was maintained without a license or for each refusal to permit inspection (family day care home without a valid registration certificate: not less than $25 nor more than $100 per week under § 42-12.5-7(c)). Under § 42-12.5-6 (Violations, suspensions and revocations of license) and 218-RICR-70-00-1.7(G), DHS may also impose progressive administrative enforcement: written notice of noncompliance, education/training, plan of corrective action, suspension of enrollment, assessment of fines, denial, suspension (up to 6 months), revocation (no reapplication for 3 years), and summary suspension when the health, safety, or welfare of children or the public is in jeopardy.

South Carolina schedules inspections as follows: At least one unannounced annual inspection — DSS staff may visit and inspect a child care center once per year at any time during the hours of operation without prior notice to verify regulatory compliance (S.C. Code Regs. 114-502.C.(1)). Initial and renewal inspections require at least two working days' notice (114-502.C.(2)). A regular license/approval is valid for two years from issuance (114-502.B.(1)); the renewal process is initiated 120 days before expiration (114-502.F.(1)). Health and fire officials also inspect the facility (114-502.A.(2) and 114-502.A.(4)). Additional unannounced inspections occur upon receipt of a regulatory complaint (114-502.C.(5)). The penalty for noncompliance: Operating without a license or violating any provision of the childcare chapter is a misdemeanor: upon conviction, a fine not exceeding $1,500 or imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both (S.C. Code Ann. 63-13-170). A license is required to operate a private childcare center (S.C. Code Ann. 63-13-410). DSS may seek injunctive relief against a facility operating without a license, where a violation threatens serious harm to children, or where an operator has repeatedly violated the chapter or regulations (S.C. Code Ann. 63-13-160). DSS may also deny, revoke, or refuse to renew a license/approval (S.C. Code Regs. 114-502.D), and may issue a provisional license/approval with an accompanying correction notice for violations that do not seriously threaten children (114-502.A.(5)(b)). Separately, a mandated reporter (including childcare workers) who knowingly fails to report suspected child abuse/neglect is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not more than $500 or imprisonment not more than six months, or both (S.C. Code Ann. 63-7-410; duty to report under 63-7-310).

South Dakota schedules inspections as follows: Contact your South Dakota licensing office to confirm. The penalty for noncompliance: Noncompliance is typically addressed via a plan of correction (ARSD 67:42:17:03). The Department may revoke a license or registration certificate on 30-day written notice — or immediately when necessary to prevent danger to a child's life, health, or safety — after which the provider may not reapply for at least one year (ARSD 67:42:17:05). Operating child care without a required license or registration is a misdemeanor (SDCL 26-6-9). Hindering a monitor (SDCL 26-6-55), retaliatory acts (SDCL 26-6-56), and prohibited-person/background-check violations (SDCL 26-6-14.10, 26-6-14.11) are misdemeanors. A mandatory reporter who intentionally fails to report suspected child abuse or neglect is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor — up to one year in jail and/or a $2,000 fine (SDCL 26-8A-3 / 26-8A-8; class penalties per SDCL 22-6-2).

Tennessee schedules inspections as follows: Minimum of four (4) monitoring visits per year per licensed agency using a standardized observation tool (typically two announced and two unannounced); additional complaint-based investigations occur as needed. The penalty for noncompliance: Under T.C.A. 71-3-509, TDHS may assess a civil penalty for each separate violation ranging from fifty dollars ($50) for minor violations up to a maximum of one thousand dollars ($1,000) for major violations or violations resulting in death or injury to a child; each day of continued violation constitutes a separate violation. The Department may also place a license on probation, or suspend, deny, restrict, or revoke a license. Appeals are filed in writing with the commissioner within ten (10) days and heard by the Child Care Agency Board of Review (T.C.A. 71-3-509 & 71-3-510). Procedures are detailed in Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. Chapter 1240-04-05.

Texas schedules inspections as follows: Annual inspection; additional inspections for complaints or risk-based monitoring The penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $2,000/day per violation; corrective action plan; license denial, suspension, or revocation under Texas Human Resources Code §42.078

Utah schedules inspections as follows: The Office of Licensing may schedule both announced and unannounced inspections to follow statute, contract, and federal (CCDF) requirements for each program category; licensed child care centers are subject to annual licensing inspection plus unannounced monitoring and complaint investigations (Utah Admin. Code R380-600-7 — Inspection and Investigation Process). Anonymous complaints, and complaints about conditions that occurred six or more months before the complaint is received, are generally not investigated for child care licensing providers. Fire and food-service/health inspections are separately required (R381-100-4 — Fire and Other Health Inspections). The penalty for noncompliance: Enforcement under Utah Admin. Code R380-600-8 (Rule Compliance, Penalties, Agency Action Reviews, and Appeals). The Office of Licensing may issue corrective action, civil money penalties (CMPs), inspection fees, license conditions, suspension, revocation, or denial. A CMP is issued as a fine for repeat citations or when noncompliance results in, or is likely to result in, harm to clients; for each subsequent noncompliance of the same rule, the CMP amount doubles the previous CMP, not to exceed $10,000. Operating without a required license is a class A misdemeanor and subject to a CMP. Immediate closure is authorized for conditions posing imminent risk (R381-100-5 — Immediate Closure). Statutory basis in Utah Code Title 26B, Chapter 2 (Licensing and Background Checks).

Vermont schedules inspections as follows: The Division conducts a licensing visit at least once every 365 days (annually) at each center-based program (Rule 2.3.9.4). A full license is effective for 3 years from issuance (Rule 2.3.7.1.2). Complaint-driven investigations occur whenever a complaint pertinent to the regulations is received (Rule 2.3.6.2). Evacuation drills are required at least once a month (Rule 3.7.2.2). The penalty for noncompliance: Enforcement is administrative, not a fixed monetary fine schedule. Statutory authority: 33 V.S.A. § 3502 (a person shall not operate a child care facility without a license) and 33 V.S.A. § 105(b). When violations are found, the Division offers the licensee a program improvement plan / corrective action within a mutually agreeable timeframe (Rule 2.4.1). For violations posing an imminent risk of harm, a pattern of repeated non-compliance, or failure to complete corrective action, the Division may take additional regulatory action (Rule 2.4.2): immediate license suspension by written order when children's health/safety/well-being is in serious or imminent danger (Rule 2.5.1), and denial or revocation of a license for good cause (Rule 2.5.2). The licensee has appeal rights to the Human Services Board (Rule 2.6; the Board is defined at Rule 2.2.23 per 3 V.S.A. §§ 3090-3091). Vermont's center-based child care licensing regulations (Title 33, Chapter 35) do not publish a per-violation civil fine dollar schedule.

Virginia schedules inspections as follows: Annual; complaint investigations; re-inspections following violations The penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalty up to $5,000/violation; license suspension or revocation under Virginia Code §63.2-1709

Washington schedules inspections as follows: Licensing inspections during initial and renewal periods; complaint investigations The penalty for noncompliance: Civil fines; license suspension or revocation under RCW 43.216.325

West Virginia schedules inspections as follows: The Secretary may conduct announced and unannounced inspections of all aspects of the center's operation and premises (W. Va. Code R. §78-1-5.1). A regular license/certificate of approval is valid for up to two (2) years (§78-1-4.1.b, §78-1-4.5.b); new providers receive an initial six-month license (§78-1-4.5.a); a provisional license is issued to a licensee not in full compliance who does not pose a significant risk (§78-1-4.5.c). Renewal applications are due not less than 60 days before expiration (§78-1-4.2.c). The center rule does not fix a separate fixed annual visit cadence; pre-licensing State Fire Marshal and county Department of Health inspections are required at licensure and after operational/structural changes (§78-1-4). The penalty for noncompliance: Operating a child care center without a license when one is required is a misdemeanor: upon conviction, confinement in jail not exceeding one (1) year, or a fine of not more than $500, or both (W. Va. Code §49-2-120). Administratively, the Secretary may deny, refuse to renew, or revoke a license, or make it provisional, and may issue an order of closure for an immediate danger of serious harm (W. Va. Code R. §78-1-4.7, §78-1-4.8, §78-1-24). The Secretary may also obtain injunctive relief pursuant to W. Va. Code §49-2-105 (W. Va. Code R. §78-1-4.9.c).

Wisconsin schedules inspections as follows: Department licensing representatives shall have unrestricted access to the premises and may inspect during licensed hours (Wis. Admin. Code DCF 251.12(2)); DCF policy conducts at least one (announced or unannounced) monitoring inspection per licensing period (regular 2-year license inspected at least once during the term; new/provisional licenses inspected more frequently), plus inspections in response to complaints received (DCF 251.12(1)). The penalty for noncompliance: Enforcement under Wis. Admin. Code DCF 251.12(3) (department may order any sanction or impose any penalty in accordance with ss. 48.686, 48.715, or 48.76, Stats.). The department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a license, issue a plan of correction, or order a center to cease operation. Under s. 48.715(3)(a), Stats., the department may impose a daily forfeiture of not less than $10 nor more than $1,000 per violation per day. Operating a child care center without a required license is prohibited and may be enjoined, with forfeitures assessed for continued violation.

Wyoming schedules inspections as follows: A minimum of 2 licensing inspections per facility per year — one annual unannounced and one annual announced (Ch. 2 Section 5(a); confirmed by the DFS Child Care Licensing FAQ: 'a minimum of 2 visits to each facility per year. One visit is unannounced and one visit is scheduled'). Additional scheduled or unscheduled visits may occur for compliance monitoring, technical assistance, complaint investigation, or follow-up (Ch. 2 Section 5(b),(d)). Annual fire, food-safety, and health/sanitation inspections are also required (Ch. 2 Section 5(c)). Statutory right of entry/inspection: W.S. § 14-4-107. Licenses are renewed periodically with a renewal fee due upon expiration of the current license (Ch. 2 Section 9(b); statute frames continuation fees as due on the anniversary date per W.S. § 14-4-104(e)). The penalty for noncompliance: Operating a child caring facility without certification is a misdemeanor under W.S. § 14-4-111: a fine of not less than $50.00 nor more than $200.00 for each offense, with each day of operation without certification a separate offense. For certified/licensed facilities that violate the rules, DFS may suspend, refuse to renew, or revoke under W.S. § 14-4-108(a)-(b) (30 days' prior written notice with opportunity to request a hearing); if a child's life, health, or safety is in imminent danger, DFS may immediately temporarily suspend (W.S. § 14-4-108(c)). DFS may also impose interim restrictions (reduced ratios, capacity limits, additional monitoring, provisional license) for continued/willful/repeated non-compliance (Ch. 2 Section 12(e)). Denial of admission to an authorized inspector results in revocation/denial (W.S. § 14-4-107(b)). Denial/revocation/suspension procedures are detailed in Ch. 3 of the Child Care Licensing Rules.

Inspection Frequency and Penalties by State

Inspection schedule and penalty summary for all 50 states. The penalty column shows the leading sentence — see the prose above or your state page for the full citation.

Alabama
Inspection frequency
Licenses are valid for two (2) years (Ala.
Penalty
Per Ala.
Alaska
Inspection frequency
No fixed numeric inspection interval is set in 7 AAC 57.
Penalty
Enforcement is governed by 7 AAC 57.900 under AS 47.32 (Centralized Licensing).
Arizona
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Fines;
Arkansas
Inspection frequency
Unannounced on-site monitoring visits at least three (3) times per year for child care centers;
Penalty
Civil monetary penalties under Ark.
California
Inspection frequency
Annual unannounced inspection;
Penalty
Fines up to $150/day per deficiency;
Colorado
Inspection frequency
Fire department and local/CDPHE health department inspections are required before the original license, after qualifying renovations, and at least every two…
Penalty
Civil penalties under 8 CCR 1402-1, Rule 2.113 (Civil Penalties and Injunctions), implementing the Child Care Licensing Act at C.R.S.
Connecticut
Inspection frequency
The Commissioner of Early Childhood (or designee) shall make an unannounced visit, inspection or investigation of each licensed child care center and group c…
Penalty
Operating a child care center or group child care home without a current and valid license is subject to a civil penalty of not more than $100 per day for ea…
Delaware
Inspection frequency
OCCL has authority to inspect centers, grounds, and files (14 DE Admin.
Penalty
Under 14 Del.C.
Florida
Inspection frequency
Annual inspection;
Penalty
Fines up to $100/day per Class I violation;
Georgia
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Administrative sanctions;
Hawaii
Inspection frequency
Authorized DHS representatives (and parents/guardians of enrolled children) may visit a facility at any time during hours of operation for monitoring and ins…
Penalty
Statutory penalty under HRS §346-156 (Penalty;
Idaho
Inspection frequency
Health and safety inspections are conducted annually by a qualified inspector designated by the Department and are unannounced (IDAPA 16.06.03.380).
Penalty
Operating a daycare facility without first obtaining a basic daycare license is a misdemeanor (Idaho Code § 39-1115(1));
Illinois
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Fines up to $5,000;
Indiana
Inspection frequency
The division (FSSA/OECOSL) and the State Fire Marshal must make annual on-site inspections of each licensed child care center and keep written records of the…
Penalty
General civil penalty: in addition to other penalties under the chapter, the division may impose a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for a violation of t…
Iowa
Inspection frequency
At least one unannounced on-site visit each calendar year, plus an unannounced on-site visit for all initial and renewal license applications and upon valid…
Penalty
A license may be denied (Iowa Admin.
Kansas
Inspection frequency
At least once every 12 months (K.S.A.
Penalty
Criminal: a violation of article 5 of chapter 65 is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $5 nor more than $50, and each day the person fails o…
Kentucky
Inspection frequency
A child-care center shall allow the cabinet or its designee, another agency with regulatory authority, and a parent of an enrolled child unannounced access d…
Penalty
Civil penalties under 922 KAR 2:190 (authorized by KRS 199.990): Type A violation (creates harm or imminent danger) — no more than $1,000 for each occurrence…
Louisiana
Inspection frequency
After initial licensure, inspections shall be conducted as deemed necessary by the department at regular intervals not to exceed one year (i.e., at least ann…
Penalty
Civil fines under La.
Maine
Inspection frequency
The Department generally conducts unannounced site inspections.
Penalty
Civil penalties under 10-148 C.M.R.
Maryland
Inspection frequency
Routine unannounced inspections required at least once within each 12-month period after an initial or continuing license is issued;
Penalty
Civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each violation;
Massachusetts
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Fines up to $1,000/day;
Michigan
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Fines;
Minnesota
Inspection frequency
At least one unannounced licensing inspection of each licensed child care center once per calendar year (statutory authority Minn.
Penalty
For child care centers under the DCYF chapter, the commissioner may issue a correction order or conditional license (Minn.
Mississippi
Inspection frequency
An agency representative inspects each child care facility prior to issuing or renewing a license to assure compliance — Rule 1.2.5;
Penalty
Monetary penalties under Rule 1.25.9 (authority Miss.
Missouri
Inspection frequency
Per DESE Office of Childhood: licensed child care facilities are inspected at least twice annually by the Section for Child Care Compliance for compliance mo…
Penalty
Per RSMo 210.245: violating any provision of sections 210.201 to 210.245 (child care licensing law) is a class C misdemeanor for a first offense with a fine…
Montana
Inspection frequency
The department must visit and inspect all licensed and registered child care facilities annually, except RCE providers, and may conduct unannounced inspectio…
Penalty
Establishing or maintaining a day-care facility without first obtaining a license or registration certificate is a misdemeanor, punishable upon conviction by…
Nebraska
Inspection frequency
Initial on-site inspection within 30 days of receipt of a completed provisional-license application (391 NAC 3-005.01), and an unannounced provisional-to-ope…
Penalty
Under 391 NAC 3-008.02 (Types of Disciplinary Action), DHHS may impose any one or a combination of: (1) a probationary license;
Nevada
Inspection frequency
Inspections may be unannounced and must be made at least two times during the 12-month licensing period (i.e., approximately once every 6 months), per NAC 43…
Penalty
For licensure violations, the Division may, under NRS 432A.186 (Administrative sanctions): impose an administrative penalty of not more than $1,000 per day f…
New Hampshire
Inspection frequency
A licensing coordinator conducts a yearly unannounced monitoring visit at every licensed program, plus an additional unannounced visit prior to license expir…
Penalty
Administrative fines under N.H.
New Jersey
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Fines;
New Mexico
Inspection frequency
The licensing authority conducts on-site surveys at least twice a year (semi-annually) in each licensed child care facility, per 8.16.2.17(A) NMAC.
Penalty
Civil monetary penalties under 8.16.2.13 NMAC are assessed by deficiency class at the rate of the most serious deficiency cited: Class A deficiency — not les…
New York
Inspection frequency
Annual inspection plus unannounced visits;
Penalty
Fines up to $500/violation;
North Carolina
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Civil penalty up to $5,000/day;
North Dakota
Inspection frequency
Licensed and self-declared child care programs receive one announced (scheduled) and one unannounced (drop-in) monitoring/inspection visit per year, verifyin…
Penalty
Criminal: Any person or entity that violates any provision of N.D.C.C.
Ohio
Inspection frequency
Annual inspection;
Penalty
Fines up to $500/day;
Oklahoma
Inspection frequency
Unannounced monitoring visits: minimum of three (3) per year for programs operating full-year, and two (2) per year for programs operating less than a full-y…
Penalty
Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act (10 O.S.
Oregon
Inspection frequency
A regular certified child care center certification is valid for no more than 1 year (OAR 414-305-0140), so certification is renewed annually.
Penalty
Civil penalties under OAR 414-305-1620: CCLD may assess up to $2,500 per violation of the rules or terms and conditions of certification (414-305-1620(1)).
Pennsylvania
Inspection frequency
Annual unannounced inspection;
Penalty
Fines up to $5,000/day;
Rhode Island
Inspection frequency
Unannounced monitoring visits at least two (2) times per year for child care centers (218-RICR-70-00-1.7(F));
Penalty
Per R.I.
South Carolina
Inspection frequency
At least one unannounced annual inspection — DSS staff may visit and inspect a child care center once per year at any time during the hours of operation with…
Penalty
Operating without a license or violating any provision of the childcare chapter is a misdemeanor: upon conviction, a fine not exceeding $1,500 or imprisonmen…
South Dakota
Inspection frequency
Contact your South Dakota licensing office to confirm.
Penalty
Noncompliance is typically addressed via a plan of correction (ARSD 67:42:17:03).
Tennessee
Inspection frequency
Minimum of four (4) monitoring visits per year per licensed agency using a standardized observation tool (typically two announced and two unannounced);
Penalty
Under T.C.A.
Texas
Inspection frequency
Annual inspection;
Penalty
Fines up to $2,000/day per violation;
Utah
Inspection frequency
The Office of Licensing may schedule both announced and unannounced inspections to follow statute, contract, and federal (CCDF) requirements for each program…
Penalty
Enforcement under Utah Admin.
Vermont
Inspection frequency
The Division conducts a licensing visit at least once every 365 days (annually) at each center-based program (Rule 2.3.9.4).
Penalty
Enforcement is administrative, not a fixed monetary fine schedule.
Virginia
Inspection frequency
Annual;
Penalty
Civil penalty up to $5,000/violation;
Washington
Inspection frequency
Licensing inspections during initial and renewal periods;
Penalty
Civil fines;
West Virginia
Inspection frequency
The Secretary may conduct announced and unannounced inspections of all aspects of the center's operation and premises (W.
Penalty
Operating a child care center without a license when one is required is a misdemeanor: upon conviction, confinement in jail not exceeding one (1) year, or a…
Wisconsin
Inspection frequency
Department licensing representatives shall have unrestricted access to the premises and may inspect during licensed hours (Wis.
Penalty
Enforcement under Wis.
Wyoming
Inspection frequency
A minimum of 2 licensing inspections per facility per year — one annual unannounced and one annual announced (Ch.
Penalty
Operating a child caring facility without certification is a misdemeanor under W.S.

Frequently Asked Questions About Daycare Inspection Violations

What are the most common daycare inspection violations?
The violations childcare inspectors cite most often are: staff-to-child supervision and ratio lapses (especially when a teacher steps away for a break), unsecured cleaning supplies and medications stored within a child's reach, expired CPR and First Aid certifications, incomplete child files (missing immunization records or emergency contacts), missing fire-drill and emergency-drill logs, and uncovered electrical outlets or other physical-safety hazards.
What do daycare inspectors look for during a licensing inspection?
Inspectors count children against your required staff-to-child ratio, open cabinets at child height to check for chemicals and medications, pull staff files to confirm CPR and background checks are current, pull child files at random to check immunizations and authorizations, ask to see your fire-drill log, and walk the building for outlet covers, working smoke detectors, and physical hazards.
What is the most cited daycare violation?
Supervision and ratio lapses are the most frequently cited category. The common failure isn't being understaffed on paper — it's the brief window when a teacher leaves for a break, lunch, or restroom and the room slips out of ratio. A written break-coverage plan that names who covers each room prevents most of these citations.
What happens if my daycare fails an inspection?
Consequences vary by state and severity. Most states issue a deficiency report with a corrective-action deadline for minor issues, and escalate to fines (often charged per day per violation), probationary status, license suspension, or revocation for serious or repeated violations. Penalties range from roughly $50–$100 per day in some states to $1,000–$5,000 per day or per violation in others. See the per-state table on this page for your state's specific penalty authority.
How can I prevent the most common daycare violations?
Most citations are preventable with routine. Build a written break-coverage plan so no room slips out of ratio. Lock all chemicals and medications in a fixed cabinet and walk the room at a child's eye level daily. Track every staff member's CPR and training expiration dates. Use an enrollment checklist so no child file is incomplete. Log every fire drill the day it happens. Walk the building monthly for outlet covers and physical hazards.

Violation categories and penalty data are compiled from published state administrative codes and provided for informational purposes only. Regulations and enforcement vary by state and change frequently — always verify current requirements with your state's childcare licensing office. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.