The Child Care Team has been busy advocating and assisting several business owners as they expand their home day care business to a center-based business.  We have encountered several situations as it relates to the availability of parking for the center.  Many towns require that there be sufficient parking for both staff and parents as safety is the main concern for the children.Here are some things to keep in mind when seeking a location for your business:

• Talk to the Department of Zoning to find out what the minimum parking space requirements are.
• Have a "Plan B" talk to nearby businesses to see if they will allow you to use their parking lot. (Make sure this is allowed with Department of Zoning)

• Do not commit to a lease until you are absolutely sure that you have been cleared by all required departments.  If you find yourself committing to a lease, seek the assistance of an attorney to make sure you have the necessary clauses to back out in a worst case scenario.