General Requirements for Licensure – Partner Providers must meet or exceed all

General Requirements for Licensure – Partner Providers must meet or exceed all standards prescribed within these and other applicable rules in order to receive and maintain licensure. 1. Location of Partner Provider Facility. The facility must be located in a residential zoning area that is aware of the Partner Provider’s mission and purpose. Any disputes arising from the facility’s location must be resolved before licensure can be received. 2. Facility Grounds. The facility and premises must be maintained in a clean, sanitary, comfortable and safe condition. Garbage and trash must be secured in covered containers and removed on a weekly basis. Unsafe areas such as steep grades, cliffs, open pits, lakes, ponds, swimming pools, drainage ditches or other hazards must have appropriate barriers to protect children. The facility must be located on land that is properly drained. 3. Changes to Partner Provider Facility. The Partner Provider must submit a written plan of action to MDCPS for approval prior to start-up operation and/or commencing any new construction work. All Partner Providers must obtain approval of local fire, safety, building construction and zoning authorities. The Partner Provider must provide documentation as follows: a. Written records of inspections from the appropriate local fire, and safety authorities annually. b. Documentation that appropriate action was taken to correct deficiencies cited by the above entities. c. Evidence and documentation of a routine pest control service. 4. Smoke-Free Environment. The Partner Provider must maintain a smoke- free environment in all indoor areas of the home and in all vehicles used to transport a child in placement.