GHFL

Florida

Group Home Requirements

Official State Website

Licensing Agency

Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) - Office of Licensing

License: Child-caring agencies (Group Care)

Key Requirements & Qualifications

9 items
  • 1

    High-level training

  • 2

    adequate policy and procedures

  • 3

    family engagement

  • 4

    suitable staff to youth ratio

  • 5

    delivery of appropriate services/treatments

  • 6

    background screenings for all child-placing agencies (OCA from DCF)

  • 7

    Traditional group home in single or multi-family community

  • 8

    licensed bed capacity no greater than 14

  • 9

    Suitable staff to youth ratio

Governing Law & Regulatory Code

Chapter 409.175, F.S.; Florida Administrative Code 65C-46 Child-Caring Agency LicensingView Official Text

Click the code above to open the official state regulations website in a new tab.

Official State Resource

Visit the official state government website to access current application forms, full regulatory text, and contact information for the licensing agency.

Open Official Website

https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/licensing/residential-group-care-licensing/

Fees & Costs

For child care facility licensed pursuant to s. 402.305, $1 per child (minimum $25, maximum $100); For family day care home registered pursuant to s. 402.313, $25; For family day care home licensed pursuant to s. 402.313, $50; For large family child care home licensed pursuant to s. 402.3131, $60.

Getting Started Checklist

Research state-specific requirements
Contact the licensing agency
Complete required training/education
Pass background checks
Secure appropriate facility/location
Obtain liability insurance
Submit license application
Pass facility inspection

Important Notice

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the state licensing agency before submitting applications. This information is for educational purposes only.