When do the plans need ministry approval?
Before any work starts. The ministry's child care centre licensing manual says section 14 of O. Reg. 137/15 requires a ministry official to approve the plans for a new centre and for renovations to an existing one, so that nobody builds a room that later fails licensing. At a minimum that means floor plans; a centre with outdoor play also submits a site plan.
What has to be proven about the building?
Under section 13, the licensee shows that the centre complies with the local public health unit, fire protection, building and zoning requirements, and keeps complying. The permit, the inspections and the fire sign-off from the build are the paper that proves it, so they are collected as the job goes, not after.
How much play space does each child need?
The licensing manual measures unobstructed floor space in each play activity room, and the amount depends on the children's ages. Counters, sinks, built-in shelves and cubbies are obstructions and do not count, so millwork is drawn after the room sizes are fixed. A centre open six hours or more a day needs a playground of 5.6 square metres per child the centre is approved to hold, unless a director approves less.
Which rooms and spaces does the regulation require?
Section 15 lists designated spaces, including storage for medical supplies, cleaning materials and anything that could harm a child, and space for heating and electrical equipment, all out of children's reach. Infant, toddler and family groups need a table or counter next to a sink, and infant rooms need a separate sleeping area. The ministry's planning and design guidelines give the detail and checklists.
What does Cruzz do on a child care job?
Cruzz Construction was the general contractor for Heart at the Door Daycare, a child care centre in Hamilton. On a centre, Cruzz builds to the approved plans, coordinates the trades and the inspections, and keeps the records the licence needs. See tenant improvements for a centre in a leased unit and the commercial permit guide for the City steps.
| Check | Rule | When |
|---|---|---|
| Floor and site plans | Ministry approval of the plans, section 14. | Before construction or renovation starts. |
| Zoning, Building Code, Fire Code | Proof of compliance, section 13. | At application and ongoing. |
| Play activity rooms | Unobstructed floor space per child by age group. | Measured on site. |
| Playground | 5.6 square metres per child for programs of six hours or more. | In the site plan. |
| Designated spaces | Storage and equipment spaces children cannot reach, section 15. | Shown on the floor plan. |