How often are daycares inspected?

Most states inspect licensed childcare centers at least once a year, and the visit is usually unannounced. Several states inspect more often: New Mexico, Nevada, and Rhode Island require at least two visits per year, and a few (Oklahoma, Arkansas, Pennsylvania) run three or more monitoring visits annually. On top of the routine cadence, every state investigates complaints as they come in, so a center can be inspected at any time.

What are the fines for daycare licensing violations?

Penalties vary widely by state and by how serious the violation is. California fines up to $150 per day per deficiency, Texas up to $2,000 per day per violation, and Illinois and several others reach $5,000. Many states use a tiered schedule (a Class I/serious violation costs far more than a Class III/administrative one), and operating without a license is frequently a misdemeanor on top of any civil fine.

Are childcare inspections announced or unannounced?

Most routine licensing inspections are unannounced — an inspector can arrive during operating hours without notice. Some states pair one announced (scheduled) visit with one or more unannounced visits, and initial or renewal inspections are often scheduled in advance. Complaint investigations are almost always unannounced.

Can my childcare license be revoked for noncompliance?

Yes. Across every state, licensing agencies can suspend, deny, or revoke a license for serious or uncorrected violations, separate from any monetary fine. Most states first issue a corrective action plan and give a deadline to fix the problem; immediate suspension or emergency closure is reserved for conditions that put children in imminent danger.

How do I find the exact inspection rules for my state?

Find your state in the table below, note the regulatory citation, and confirm the current rule with your state's childcare licensing office — fines and inspection schedules are amended frequently. Each state's licensing page is linked from the TotReady state requirements directory.

50-State Reference

Childcare Inspection Frequency & Penalties by State

Name: U.S. Childcare Inspection Frequency & Noncompliance Penalties by State
Creator: TotReady Research Team
License: https://totready.com

How often inspectors visit — and what noncompliance costs

Last updated: June 2026

Compiled by the TotReady Research Team

Every state inspects licensed childcare centers on its own schedule and fines violations under its own rule. This page is a plain-language reference for two questions providers ask most: how often will an inspector show up, and what does a violation cost. Each state below cites the administrative code or statute the rule comes from, so you can verify it directly with your licensing agency.

Key finding: Most U.S. states inspect licensed childcare centers at least once a year, usually unannounced, with complaint-based visits at any time. Fines for noncompliance range from about $25 per administrative violation to $5,000 or more per day for serious violations, and a license can be suspended or revoked regardless of any fine.

Method: Compiled by the TotReady Research Team from published state administrative codes and licensing statutes. Each state's inspection cadence and penalty schedule below quotes or summarizes the governing rule and lists its citation. Inspection schedules and fine amounts are amended frequently — always confirm the current rule with your state's childcare licensing office before relying on it. TotReady provides information, not legal advice.

How often each state inspects daycares — and what violations cost

A one-line summary per state. Read the full rule and citation in the reference table below, or open a state's page for its complete licensing requirements.

Alabama

Inspections: Alabama licenses are valid for two (2) years (Ala.

Penalties: Per Ala.

Alaska

Inspections: Alaska no fixed numeric inspection interval is set in 7 AAC 57.

Penalties: Enforcement is governed by 7 AAC 57.900 under AS 47.32 (Centralized Licensing).

Arizona

Inspections: Arizona annual.

Penalties: Fines.

Arkansas

Inspections: Arkansas unannounced on-site monitoring visits at least three (3) times per year for child care centers.

Penalties: Civil monetary penalties under Ark.

California

Inspections: California annual unannounced inspection.

Penalties: Fines up to $150/day per deficiency.

Colorado

Inspections: Inspection cadence for Colorado could not be confirmed — contact your Colorado childcare licensing office to confirm.

Penalties: 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

Inspections: Connecticut 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.

Penalties: 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.

Delaware

Inspections: Delaware oCCL has authority to inspect centers, grounds, and files (14 DE Admin.

Penalties: Under 14 Del.C.

Florida

Inspections: Florida annual inspection.

Penalties: Fines up to $100/day per Class I violation.

Georgia

Inspections: Georgia annual.

Penalties: Administrative sanctions.

Hawaii

Inspections: Hawaii 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)).

Penalties: Statutory penalty under HRS §346-156 (Penalty.

Idaho

Inspections: Idaho health and safety inspections are conducted annually by a qualified inspector designated by the Department and are unannounced (IDAPA 16.06.03.380).

Penalties: Operating a daycare facility without first obtaining a basic daycare license is a misdemeanor (Idaho Code § 39-1115(1)).

Illinois

Inspections: Illinois annual.

Penalties: Fines up to $5,000.

Indiana

Inspections: Indiana 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).

Penalties: 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).

Iowa

Inspections: Iowa 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.

Penalties: A license may be denied (Iowa Admin.

Kansas

Inspections: Kansas At least once every 12 months (K.S.A.

Penalties: 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.

Kentucky

Inspections: Kentucky 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.

Penalties: 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.

Louisiana

Inspections: Louisiana 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.

Penalties: Civil fines under La.

Maine

Inspections: Maine The Department generally conducts unannounced site inspections.

Penalties: Civil penalties under 10-148 C.M.R.

Maryland

Inspections: Maryland routine unannounced inspections required at least once within each 12-month period after an initial or continuing license is issued.

Penalties: Civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each violation.

Massachusetts

Inspections: Massachusetts annual.

Penalties: Fines up to $1,000/day.

Michigan

Inspections: Michigan annual.

Penalties: Fines.

Minnesota

Inspections: Minnesota At least one unannounced licensing inspection of each licensed child care center once per calendar year (statutory authority Minn.

Penalties: For child care centers under the DCYF chapter, the commissioner may issue a correction order or conditional license (Minn.

Mississippi

Inspections: Mississippi An agency representative inspects each child care facility prior to issuing or renewing a license to assure compliance — Rule 1.2.5.

Penalties: Monetary penalties under Rule 1.25.9 (authority Miss.

Missouri

Inspections: Missouri 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.

Penalties: 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.

Montana

Inspections: Montana 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.

Penalties: 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).

Nebraska

Inspections: Nebraska 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).

Penalties: Under 391 NAC 3-008.02 (Types of Disciplinary Action), DHHS may impose any one or a combination of: (1) a probationary license.

Nevada

Inspections: Nevada 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.

Penalties: 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.

New Hampshire

Inspections: New Hampshire 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).

Penalties: Administrative fines under N.H.

New Jersey

Inspections: New Jersey annual.

Penalties: Fines.

New Mexico

Inspections: New Mexico 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.

Penalties: 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.

New York

Inspections: New York annual inspection plus unannounced visits.

Penalties: Fines up to $500/violation.

North Carolina

Inspections: North Carolina annual.

Penalties: Civil penalty up to $5,000/day.

North Dakota

Inspections: North Dakota 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.

Penalties: Criminal: Any person or entity that violates any provision of N.D.C.C.

Ohio

Inspections: Ohio annual inspection.

Penalties: Fines up to $500/day.

Oklahoma

Inspections: Oklahoma 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].

Penalties: Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act (10 O.S.

Oregon

Inspections: Oregon A regular certified child care center certification is valid for no more than 1 year (OAR 414-305-0140), so certification is renewed annually.

Penalties: 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

Inspections: Pennsylvania annual unannounced inspection.

Penalties: Fines up to $5,000/day.

Rhode Island

Inspections: Rhode Island unannounced monitoring visits at least two (2) times per year for child care centers (218-RICR-70-00-1.7(F)).

Penalties: Per R.I.

South Carolina

Inspections: South Carolina 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.

Penalties: 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.

South Dakota

Inspections: South Dakota At least one pre-licensure inspection and at least one annual unannounced inspection by the Department to determine compliance (ARSD 67:42:17:03).

Penalties: Noncompliance is typically addressed via a plan of correction (ARSD 67:42:17:03).

Tennessee

Inspections: Tennessee minimum of four (4) monitoring visits per year per licensed agency using a standardized observation tool (typically two announced and two unannounced).

Penalties: Under T.C.A.

Texas

Inspections: Texas annual inspection.

Penalties: Fines up to $2,000/day per violation.

Utah

Inspections: Utah The Office of Licensing may schedule both announced and unannounced inspections to follow statute, contract, and federal (CCDF) requirements for each program category.

Penalties: Enforcement under Utah Admin.

Vermont

Inspections: Vermont The Division conducts a licensing visit at least once every 365 days (annually) at each center-based program (Rule 2.3.9.4).

Penalties: Enforcement is administrative, not a fixed monetary fine schedule.

Virginia

Inspections: Virginia annual.

Penalties: Civil penalty up to $5,000/violation.

Washington

Inspections: Washington licensing inspections during initial and renewal periods.

Penalties: Civil fines.

West Virginia

Inspections: West Virginia The Secretary may conduct announced and unannounced inspections of all aspects of the center's operation and premises (W.

Penalties: 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.

Wisconsin

Inspections: Wisconsin department licensing representatives shall have unrestricted access to the premises and may inspect during licensed hours (Wis.

Penalties: Enforcement under Wis.

Wyoming

Inspections: Wyoming A minimum of 2 licensing inspections per facility per year — one annual unannounced and one annual announced (Ch.

Penalties: Operating a child caring facility without certification is a misdemeanor under W.S.

Inspection frequency & penalties: full state table

Coverage for 49 of 50 states. Each cell quotes or summarizes the governing administrative code. Confirm current amounts with your licensing agency before relying on them.

Childcare licensing inspection frequency and penalty for noncompliance, by U.S. state, with regulatory citations.
State	Inspection Frequency	Penalty for Noncompliance
Alabama	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)).	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	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).	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	Annual; unannounced visits; complaint investigations	Fines; corrective action; license revocation under ARS §36-897.01
Arkansas	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.	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	Annual unannounced inspection; additional inspections following complaints	Fines up to $150/day per deficiency; license suspension or revocation; criminal penalties for certain violations under Health & Safety Code §1596.885
Colorado	Contact your Colorado licensing office to confirm.	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	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.	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	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).	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	Annual inspection; additional risk-based inspections	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	Annual; unannounced inspections at least twice per year for high-risk facilities	Administrative sanctions; fines; license denial, suspension, or revocation under Georgia Code §20-1A-43
Hawaii	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)).	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	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)).	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	Annual; complaint investigations as needed	Fines up to $5,000; license suspension or revocation under 225 ILCS 10/9
Indiana	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).	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	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.	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	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)).	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	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.)	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	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).	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	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.	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	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).	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	Annual; unannounced monitoring visits; complaint investigations	Fines up to $1,000/day; license suspension or revocation under MGL c.15D §11
Michigan	Annual; complaint investigations; random unannounced visits	Fines; license refusal, suspension, or revocation under MCL 722.128
Minnesota	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.	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	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.	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	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.	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	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).	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	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.)	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	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).	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	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.	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	Annual; complaint-based; unannounced follow-up visits	Fines; license suspension or revocation under NJSA 30:5B-30
New Mexico	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.	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	Annual inspection plus unannounced visits; complaint-based inspections	Fines up to $500/violation; corrective action plan; revocation under Social Services Law §390
North Carolina	Annual; frequency increases for lower-rated facilities (1-5 star)	Civil penalty up to $5,000/day; license revocation under NC General Statutes §110-103
North Dakota	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).	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	Annual inspection; unannounced visits; complaint investigations	Fines up to $500/day; license revocation under Ohio Revised Code §5104.05
Oklahoma	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].	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	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.	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	Annual unannounced inspection; complaint-based inspections	Fines up to $5,000/day; provisional, suspended, or revoked certificate under Human Services Code §1026
Rhode Island	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).	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	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)).	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	At least one pre-licensure inspection and at least one annual unannounced inspection by the Department to determine compliance (ARSD 67:42:17:03). Additional visits may occur to verify plans of correction, investigate complaints, or respond to reported incidents. (Construction/fire-safety standards are addressed under ARSD 67:42:17:31; a separate annual fire inspection is not stated in 67:42:17:03.)	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	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.	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	Annual inspection; additional inspections for complaints or risk-based monitoring	Fines up to $2,000/day per violation; corrective action plan; license denial, suspension, or revocation under Texas Human Resources Code §42.078
Utah	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).	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	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).	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	Annual; complaint investigations; re-inspections following violations	Civil penalty up to $5,000/violation; license suspension or revocation under Virginia Code §63.2-1709
Washington	Licensing inspections during initial and renewal periods; complaint investigations	Civil fines; license suspension or revocation under RCW 43.216.325
West Virginia	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).	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	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)).	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	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)).	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.

Alabama

Inspection frequency: 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)).
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

Inspection frequency: 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).
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

Inspection frequency: Annual; unannounced visits; complaint investigations
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines; corrective action; license revocation under ARS §36-897.01

Arkansas

Inspection frequency: 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.
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

Inspection frequency: Annual unannounced inspection; additional inspections following complaints
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

Inspection frequency: Contact your Colorado licensing office to confirm.
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

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 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.
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

Inspection frequency: 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).
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

Inspection frequency: Annual inspection; additional risk-based inspections
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

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

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 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)).
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

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). 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)).
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

Inspection frequency: Annual; complaint investigations as needed
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $5,000; license suspension or revocation under 225 ILCS 10/9

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 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).
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

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 complaints, per Iowa Admin. Code r. 441-109.3 (109.3(1)). VERIFIED.
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

Inspection frequency: 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)).
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

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 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.)
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

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 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).
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

Inspection frequency: 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.
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

Inspection frequency: 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).
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

Inspection frequency: Annual; unannounced monitoring visits; complaint investigations
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $1,000/day; license suspension or revocation under MGL c.15D §11

Michigan

Inspection frequency: Annual; complaint investigations; random unannounced visits
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines; license refusal, suspension, or revocation under MCL 722.128

Minnesota

Inspection frequency: 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.
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

Inspection frequency: 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.
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

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 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.
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

Inspection frequency: 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).
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

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-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.)
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

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 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).
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

Inspection frequency: 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.
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

Inspection frequency: Annual; complaint-based; unannounced follow-up visits
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines; license suspension or revocation under NJSA 30:5B-30

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. 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.
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

Inspection frequency: Annual inspection plus unannounced visits; complaint-based inspections
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $500/violation; corrective action plan; revocation under Social Services Law §390

North Carolina

Inspection frequency: Annual; frequency increases for lower-rated facilities (1-5 star)
Penalty for noncompliance: Civil penalty up to $5,000/day; license revocation under NC General Statutes §110-103

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, 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).
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

Inspection frequency: Annual inspection; unannounced visits; complaint investigations
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $500/day; license revocation under Ohio Revised Code §5104.05

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-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].
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

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. 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.
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

Inspection frequency: Annual unannounced inspection; complaint-based inspections
Penalty for noncompliance: Fines up to $5,000/day; provisional, suspended, or revoked certificate under Human Services Code §1026

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)); 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).
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

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 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)).
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

Inspection frequency: At least one pre-licensure inspection and at least one annual unannounced inspection by the Department to determine compliance (ARSD 67:42:17:03). Additional visits may occur to verify plans of correction, investigate complaints, or respond to reported incidents. (Construction/fire-safety standards are addressed under ARSD 67:42:17:31; a separate annual fire inspection is not stated in 67:42:17:03.)
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

Inspection frequency: 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.
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

Inspection frequency: Annual inspection; additional inspections for complaints or risk-based monitoring
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

Inspection frequency: 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).
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

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). 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).
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

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

Washington

Inspection frequency: Licensing inspections during initial and renewal periods; complaint investigations
Penalty for noncompliance: Civil fines; license suspension or revocation under RCW 43.216.325

West Virginia

Inspection frequency: 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).
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

Inspection frequency: 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)).
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

Inspection frequency: 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)).
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.

Frequently asked questions about childcare inspections & penalties

How often are daycares inspected?: Most states inspect licensed childcare centers at least once a year, and the visit is usually unannounced. Several states inspect more often: New Mexico, Nevada, and Rhode Island require at least two visits per year, and a few (Oklahoma, Arkansas, Pennsylvania) run three or more monitoring visits annually. On top of the routine cadence, every state investigates complaints as they come in, so a center can be inspected at any time.
What are the fines for daycare licensing violations?: Penalties vary widely by state and by how serious the violation is. California fines up to $150 per day per deficiency, Texas up to $2,000 per day per violation, and Illinois and several others reach $5,000. Many states use a tiered schedule (a Class I/serious violation costs far more than a Class III/administrative one), and operating without a license is frequently a misdemeanor on top of any civil fine.
Are childcare inspections announced or unannounced?: Most routine licensing inspections are unannounced — an inspector can arrive during operating hours without notice. Some states pair one announced (scheduled) visit with one or more unannounced visits, and initial or renewal inspections are often scheduled in advance. Complaint investigations are almost always unannounced.
Can my childcare license be revoked for noncompliance?: Yes. Across every state, licensing agencies can suspend, deny, or revoke a license for serious or uncorrected violations, separate from any monetary fine. Most states first issue a corrective action plan and give a deadline to fix the problem; immediate suspension or emergency closure is reserved for conditions that put children in imminent danger.
How do I find the exact inspection rules for my state?: Find your state in the table below, note the regulatory citation, and confirm the current rule with your state's childcare licensing office — fines and inspection schedules are amended frequently. Each state's licensing page is linked from the TotReady state requirements directory.

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State Childcare Licensing Requirements

Full licensing rules, ratios, and required policies for your state.

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How Much Does a Daycare License Cost?

Application fees, renewals, and first-year cost estimates by state.

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Daycare Rules & Regulations Guide

What the regulations actually require, in plain language.

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How to Start a Daycare: Complete Guide

From program type through opening day, step by step.

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Inspection schedules and penalty amounts are compiled from published state administrative codes and are provided for informational purposes only. Rules change frequently — always verify the current requirements with your state's childcare licensing agency. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.