Site Analysis and Feasibility

Ask these questions about the location:

• Is the site in the community you want to serve?
• Is it easy for families and staff to get to? 
• Can it be a place where the community gathers?
• Is public transportation nearby?
• Is traffic safe and manageable? 
• Can people easily see the site from the street? 
• Are nearby businesses appropriate for children and families?
• Is there a history of crime or vandalism nearby?
• Is the area safe for evening events?

Ask these questions about the land:

• Does the site have electricity, sewer, water, gas, and phone service?
• Will the property need major work, such as drainage fixes, retaining walls, or soil work?
• Does zoning allow your planned child care project? 
• Is there enough parking?
• Is the soil stable enough for construction?

Ask these questions about the building:

• Is the building large enough now and for future growth?
• Is it structure in good condition?
• What condition are the roof, walls, and windows in?
• Are the plumbing, electrical, heating and ventilation systems working well?
• Does the basement drain properly?
• Can the seller provide recent utility bills?
• Will costs be affordable?
• Has the building been checked for asbestos, lead paint, or other hazards?
• Are there enough fire exits?
• Does the building meet American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements?
• Is it energy efficient or LEED-certified?
• Can the inside space be changed easily for classrooms and offices?
• Are nearby buildings and properties in good condition? 

Ask these questions about costs:

• Is there a recent appraisal?
• Is the purchase price or lease cost fair compared with similar properties?
• Are renovation costs reasonable? 
• Has your architect or project manager reviewed those costs?
• What will ongoing maintenance cost?

Ask these questions before moving forward:

• Can the seller meet your timeframe?
• Is financing available in time?
• Are there zoning restrictions or required hearings? 
• Are there setbacks, easements, or title problems?
• Can you place signs on the property? 
• Will building permits be ready on time?
• Are there political or neighborhood concerns that could delay approval? 

Zoning is how local governments decide what land can be used for. 

Zones may include: 

• Residential
• Commercial 
• Industrial 
• Agricultural

You must make sure the property is zones for an early learning program. 

Start with your city or county planning department. Many local governments post zoning maps online.  

City and County Development Regulations and Zoning Codes are found on the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) website.

MRSC Services is a non-profit organization that helps local governments serve their communities. It provides:

• Legal guidance 
• Policy support
• Consultant services
• Training sessions
• Online resources

You may need building permits if you: 

• Build a new structure
• Change an existing building
• Make major repairs 

You may also need environmental permits depending on the project. 

Contact your local building or planning department first.

Find Your Local Building Official 

You can find your local building office on the Washington Association of Building Officials (WABO) website. Choose your city or county from the drop-down menu, then select Search to find contact information.

ORIA helps people understand Washington’s permit and business rules.

ORIA offers: 

• A Regulatory Handbook 
• Information about Land Use Permits 
• A Project Questionnaire to help identify needed permits and approvals

Some projects must be reviewed for impacts to historic or cultural places. 

This may apply if your project: 

• Uses state funding
• Uses federal funding
• Buys property
• Disturbs the ground
• Includes buildings more than 50 years old

If you renovate a building built before 1978, you must follow lead-safe rules.  

Certified contractors must handle work that disturbs lead paint in: 

• Homes
• Child Care facilities
• Schools 

You will need to comply with Washington State Department of Commerce’s Lead-Based Paint Program. 

Washington requires public buildings to use green building practices that save energy and lower costs. (RCW 39.35D)

Some projects that receive state funds may need to meet LEED Silver standards when practical. 

There are two exemptions to the LEED silver standard. These exemptions depend on: 

• The type of facility, or
• The type of project

LEED building practices work best when they are included early in the design process. You Should talk with your architect as soon as possible about meeting LEED silver standards. The LEED rating system is run by the U.S. Green Building Council.