Exemptions

As of October 1, 2024, newly adopted rule changes regarding exemption status are in effect. All programs shall complete an online self-assessment to determine their exemption eligibility. Based on the results, some programs will be instructed to continue the application process through their DECAL KOALA accounts.

Important Notes:

A separate self-assessment must be completed for each type of program operated.
Programs that fall under exemption categories not required to maintain a DECAL KOALA account have had their accounts closed as of February 3, 2025.

Exemption Categories Still Required to Maintain a DECAL KOALA Account:

Category 1 – Government Owned and Operated
Category 5 – Faith-Based Accredited or Religious Schools
Category 7 – Day Camp Programs and School Break Programs

Health and Safety Standards Update – Effective July 1, 2025 Exempt and Informal providers who receive subsidies are subject to updated Health and Safety Standards as of July 1, 2025. A two-part webinar is available below with detailed information on these updates.

^*Programs are strongly encouraged to complete the self-assessment process to determine the need to apply for a license, exemption, or be deemed as self-assessed.

For questions or additional information, please contact: ExemptionRuleChanges@decal.ga.gov

Click here to complete the Self-Assessment and/or Apply for an Exemption

Annual Monitoring Visits for Exempt Providers Receiving CAPS Funding:

In accordance with the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014, the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is required to conduct annual monitoring visits for exempt child care providers receiving subsidy payments through the Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program.

Eligible Exempt Categories for CAPS Funding:

Category 1 – Government Owned and Operated Programs
These include programs operated by any department or state agency, county or municipal government, such as:
- Local School Systems (LSS)
- Parks and Recreation Departments
- College/University Systems
  Note: There is no age restriction for Category 1 programs.
Category 7 – Day Camps
Eligible day camps must:
- Serve children age 5 and older
- Operate during school breaks (e.g., summer, holiday breaks)
- Run for no more than 12 hours per day

Programs falling under these two categories and receiving CAPS subsidies are subject to annual monitoring by DECAL to ensure compliance with applicable health and safety standards.

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Exempt Programs Required Training Clarifications