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School & Daycare Program

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Mission

The mission of the daycare and school program is to reduce the incidence of accidents or illnesses related to daycares and schools through education and enforcement of safe practices. This is accomplished through conducting inspections of facilities, providing education to operators and investigating complaints.

The Flathead City-County Health Department inspects schools in Flathead County for health and safety. Childcare facilities are licensed and regulated by the State of Montana through the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), not by the county. Use the sections below to find school inspection resources and to reach the state childcare licensing program.

Childcare Regulations Review Montana DPHHS rules and regulations for licensed childcare facilities. School Regulations Review Montana DPHHS information for schools, daycares, and community homes.

School inspections and resources

The Flathead City-County Health Department inspects schools in the county as provided under Montana law (MCA 50-1-203 and 50-1-206). Inspections are done together with school staff and focus on health and safety issues, including safe water, adequate waste disposal, air quality, food safety, and playground safety.

Resources for schools

Childcare and daycare licensing

Childcare facilities in Montana are licensed and regulated by the State, not by Flathead County. The DPHHS Child Care Licensing (CCL) program monitors, inspects, and supports licensed and registered childcare facilities, as well as those working to become licensed or registered. CCL also sets health and safety regulations for the children in these facilities. Licensed and registered programs receive a pre-inspection before providing care, ongoing monitoring, an annual inspection, and follow-up on complaints.

Visit DPHHS Child Care Licensing

You can also review Montana childcare rules and regulations.

2013 School Environmental Health Study Report

Communicable Disease Guide for Schools & Daycares

Location

40 11th St W
Suite 210
Kalispell, MT 59901

Contact Info

+1 (406) 751-8130

Email Us

+1 (406) 751-8131

Page Last Updated: Aug 6, 2026