Licensing Agency
Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), Children's Division
License: Group Home Offering Residential Care (under Residential Care Facility for Children)
Key Requirements & Qualifications
8 items- 1
License required for care of 7-12 children
- 2
Foster parents must be economically self-sufficient
- 3
Background checks for all members of the foster family and employed staff
- 4
Physical examination for all members of the foster family and employed staff every two years
- 5
Maximum of 12 children including foster family's own children
- 6
Adult supervision available at all times (1:6 staff-to-child ratio)
- 7
Compliance with state and local building, sanitation, zoning, fire and safety regulations
- 8
Minimum of two toilets for children and one tub/shower for each six children
Governing Law & Regulatory Code
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 Websitehttps://dss.mo.gov/provider-services/children/residential-program.htm
Fees & Costs
No specific licensing fees found in reviewed regulations for group homes. General licensing for Residential Care Facilities for Children may not have a separate fee.
Getting Started Checklist
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.