Seattle Childcare Construction & Consulting

Building high-quality childcare facilities throughout Seattle, Bellevue, and King County. Local expertise, DCYF-compliant construction.

Your Seattle Childcare Construction Partner

Seattle's thriving tech economy and growing families have created unprecedented demand for quality childcare. Yet building in Seattle presents unique challenges: high construction costs, complex permitting, and limited available space. We know the Seattle market and have the expertise to navigate these challenges while building facilities that serve families for decades.

Seattle permitting expertise
SDCI & King County approvals
DCYF licensing support
Local grant opportunities
Site selection assistance
Building conversions
Discuss Your Seattle Project

Areas We Serve

  • Seattle (all neighborhoods)
  • Bellevue & Eastside
  • Kirkland & Redmond
  • Renton & Kent
  • Federal Way & Auburn
  • Shoreline & North King County

Navigating Seattle's Unique Challenges

Building childcare in Seattle isn't like building anywhere else. High land costs, strict environmental regulations, complex permitting processes, and competitive construction markets require specialized knowledge. We've built and consulted on childcare projects throughout the Seattle metro area and understand what it takes to succeed.

SDCI permit navigation
Design review process
Zoning compliance
Environmental review

Seattle Childcare Challenges We Solve

  • Finding affordable land or buildings
  • Navigating City of Seattle permitting
  • Meeting outdoor play space requirements
  • Parking and drop-off logistics
  • Converting commercial spaces
  • Maximizing capacity within budget

What We Offer in Seattle

Full-service childcare construction and consulting for the Seattle metro area.

New Construction

Ground-up childcare facility construction designed for Seattle's market. DCYF-compliant from the start.

  • Custom facility design
  • Seattle code compliance
  • DCYF requirements built-in
  • Playground construction

Building Conversions

Convert retail, office, or other commercial space into licensed childcare facilities. Often faster and more affordable than new construction.

  • Feasibility assessment
  • Code compliance renovation
  • Change of use permitting
  • DCYF licensing support

Consulting

Expert guidance on funding, licensing, site selection, and operations for Seattle-area childcare projects.

  • Site feasibility studies
  • ELF grant applications
  • DCYF licensing navigation
  • Business planning

Seattle-Area Childcare Funding

Seattle and King County offer multiple funding pathways for childcare construction beyond state programs. The City of Seattle has childcare incentives, King County has community development funds, and several local foundations support early learning infrastructure.

State ELF grants (up to $1.5M)
City of Seattle incentives
King County development funds
SBA loan assistance
Learn About Funding Options

Why Seattle Needs More Childcare

  • Only 1 licensed slot per 4 children who need care
  • Severe infant/toddler care shortage
  • Waitlists averaging 12-18 months
  • Growing population of young families
  • Strong employer support for childcare

Seattle Childcare Construction FAQ

What areas of Seattle do you serve for childcare construction?

We serve all of Seattle and the greater King County area including Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Renton, Kent, Federal Way, and surrounding communities. We also work throughout the Puget Sound region.

How much does it cost to build a childcare center in Seattle?

Seattle childcare construction typically ranges from $200-400 per square foot depending on finish level and site conditions. A 5,000 sq ft center might cost $1-2 million. Seattle's higher labor and material costs, plus strict permitting requirements, affect pricing. We provide detailed estimates after site assessment.

What permits are required for childcare construction in Seattle?

Seattle childcare projects typically require: building permits from SDCI, land use/zoning approval, fire department review, King County Health Department approval, and DCYF licensing approval. We manage the entire permitting process for you.

Are there grants available for Seattle childcare facilities?

Yes. Seattle-area childcare projects can access Washington State's ELF grants (up to $1.5M), City of Seattle childcare incentives, King County community development funds, and federal programs like CCPG. We help identify and apply for all available funding.

Ready to Build Childcare in Seattle?

Schedule a free consultation to discuss your Seattle-area childcare project. We'll help you navigate permitting, funding, and construction.