1. In order for care to be done on a lower level, more than 6' below grade, there must be a second exit from that level - either a second stairway, or an exit door in an “exposed” basement, or a legal exit window (one at least 20" x 24", that can be opened from the inside.) Spiral stairways may not be used. The two exits should be located in different areas of the basement, i.e., the exit window should not be next to the stairway.
   
   
2. If children are cared for on a upper level, more than 6' above grade, a window (as described in #1) may serve as the second exit. It is not required to have a fire escape or balcony.
   
   
3. If any children under age 2 are cared for on an upper level (as described above), there must be interconnected smoke alarms, and no more than 2 such children may be cared for on these levels by one provider.
   
   
4. Fencing at least 48" high is required around outdoor play space whenever any potential hazard is present. “Hazards” include proximity to high speed and/or high volume traffic, sharp change in elevation, presence on or near property of water- - stream, lake, pool. In the absence of definite hazards, a licensor has the option of asking the provider to sign a “stipulation” promising to be outside directly supervising the children at all times.
   
   
5. Interior railings along stairs, balconies, etc. must be spaced no more than 4" apart. Netting, Plexiglas panels, lattice or other materials may be used with railings spaced more widely. If outdoor balconies, decks, or porches are used as play spaces, these are held to the same 4" requirement. If, however, children merely pass across that space to reach the playground, this would not be imposed.
   
   
6. Safety issues are as follows: facility must have a fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 2A-10BC; smoke detectors are required on each level of the center and in nap areas; cribs and playpens with wood slats must have no more than 2 3/8" space between slats; high chairs must have safety straps that go between legs.
   
   
7. Smoking is not permitted anywhere in licensed space, indoor or outdoor, when children in care are present. This includes rooms used by children, bathrooms, halls and entryways, and lobbies used by children to leave and enter the child care center.
   
   
8. If the day care program is located in a building other than a 1- or 2-family dwelling, a commercial building inspection will be required. Local zoning regulations may be imposed. If you rent, be sure the owner will allow you to operate a child care program/business in that location.
   
   
9. All residents (10 and older) in the home are subject to a background screening. Criminal background checks will be run by the Department of Justice.
   
   
10. Factors which can result in delay or denial of license include (but are not limited to) broken steps or rails; cracked or broken glass; torn carpeting,; holes in ground, floor or porch; toy boxes without safety hinges; unprotected basement stairwells or window wells; failure to have references reply to request for information and failure to pass the background check.