Child Care Licensing

The Division of Licensing, Child Care Licensing Unit, is responsible for issuing Child Care Center Licenses, Family Child Care certificates, and Nursery School licenses. The Child Care Licensing Unit is also responsible for monitoring compliance with regulations set by the Department of Health and Human Services under direction of the Maine Legislature.

child Licensing Rules support childcare services which meet childrens' psychosocial and developmental needs while providing a safe, healthy and secure environment.

All child care personnel operating or working at a licensed child care facility, home, or nursery school are mandated reporters to the Department of Health and Human Services when there is reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect of a child under the age of 18. To report abuse/neglect, call 1-800-452-1999. This is a 24 hour hotline. TTY: (207) 287-5048

People interested in obtaining information about child care rules or applying to become a licensed child care provider should contact the Child Care Licensing Unit at 1-207-287-5060. Further information about licensing and certification rules is provided in the Information for Providers section.

Licensing Rules can be viewed or printed on-line (If you cannot access the documents listed below, contact Child Care Licensing at 1-207-287-9300.):

Rules for the Licensing of Child Care Facilities
- Cover Sheet (Microsoft Word*)
- Table of Contents (Microsoft Word*)
- Rules (Microsoft Word*)
Rules for the Licensing of Nursery Schools (Microsoft Word*)
- Rules for Family Child Care Providers (Microsoft Word*)

For a free viewer or to request a hard copy

General information

Early Childhood Information

Information for

Child Care Licensing