LAC 28:CLXI.701. Initial Application Process

A. Forms. Applications for licensure of new early learning centers shall be submitted using the department’s online electronic system. B. Each center shall provide a current email address to the department on its initial application for licensure. The center shall maintain a current email address and notify the department immediately upon a change in such email address by submitting a change of email address form to amend the existing licensing application. All communication from the department shall be sent via email to the most recent email address provided to the department on the center’s current application for licensure or renewal. C. Initial Licensing Packet. After the center’s location has been established, a completed initial licensing packet shall be submitted to the department. D. Review of Licensing Packet 1. If a submitted application is incomplete, the department shall notify the applicant of the missing information. a. The applicant shall have 21 calendar days from receipt of notification to submit the additional information. b. If the department does not receive the additional information within 21 calendar days of notification, the application shall be closed and the application fee shall be forfeited. c. Once an application has been closed, an applicant still interested in obtaining a license must submit a new application and application fee, electronically. 2. If the application is complete, the department will notify the applicant and will request the Office of State Fire Marshal, city fire (if applicable), Louisiana Department of Health, and the academic approval section to make an inspection of the center, as per agency standards. However, the applicant is responsible for obtaining the required inspections and approvals. a. Upon receipt of notification that an application is complete, the applicant has 45 calendar days in which to coordinate an on-site inspection of the center by the department. b. If the applicant fails to coordinate the inspection within 45 calendar days, the application shall be closed and the application fee shall be forfeited. c. Once an application has been closed, an applicant still interested in obtaining a license must submit a new application and application fee, electronically. E. Initial Licensure. A license shall be issued on a completed initial application when the following items have been met and written verification has been received by the department: 1. Office of State Fire Marshal approval; 2. Office of Public Health approval; 3. city fire approval, if applicable; 4. zoning approval/certificate of occupancy, if applicable; 5. academic approval by the department, if it is a type III center; 6. full licensure fee paid; 7. licensure inspection verifying compliance with all minimum standards; 8. CCCBC-based determination of eligibility for child care purposes from the department for all owners, operators, and staff; and 9. written documentation establishing direct or indirect ownership of the center, as defined in §501 of this Part.