Identifying a Location

Identifying a Location

Identifying a location early on in the process is extremely important. Location impacts the rest of the process as it will drive costs of start-up and ongoing operating budgets. You must have a location in order to submit an application to TDHS if you are opening a new center, and it is recommended that you work on identifying a location before you begin the process with TDHS for an expansion. Finding a location can be a time consuming, iterative process and should take priority. You may get a few steps into the process before you learn a particular location will not work and return to seeking a suitable location. Several factors influence the viability of a location for expansion, including the size and geographic location, who owns the property, how old the property is or when it was renovated last, and the type of building.

It is helpful if the center was previously a child care center, as this will likely minimize the need for a large amount of adjustments. Churches and schools, as well as older buildings, are often considered for child care centers. Unfortunately, these locations usually need the most adjustments and will have higher retrofitting costs.

SECTION SEVEN

Understand the zoning of your potential location.

Zoning is described in more detail in the Codes and Building Safety section of this document. If your potential location is not zoned for the size of the child care center that you plan to open, you will likely need to find another location or adjust the size of center you plan to operate. If you do need to appear before the Zoning Board of Appeals for zoning changes, plan to add 6-8 weeks to your overall process.

Investigate the location’s code compliance.

In general, Directors recommend finding a code-compliant building if at all possible, and getting early feedback from your architect about what would need to be changed at your location to comply with codes. It will help reduce costs if you can find a building that is already fire code and ADA compliant. Your location will need playground space, parking, and ADA access, in addition to meeting the specific requirements that exist for child care centers. It is unlikely that a property will need no renovation work to comply with TN State and Metro Nashville codes for child care centers.

The most commonly identified options for expanding child care into existing structures include:

• Churches

• Nonprofit organizations

• Private commercial businesses

• City-owned buildings

• State-owned buildings