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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 22. Social Services
Agency 40. Department of Social Services
Chapter 141. Licensing Standards for Independent Foster Homes
11/21/2024

22VAC40-141-190. Physical accommodations in the independent foster home.

A. The home shall be clean and have sufficient space and furnishings for each child receiving care in the home to include:

1. Space to meet the needs of the foster family in addition to that required for the foster children;

2. Bedrooms which are not used as passageways and which have doors for privacy;

3. Space for each child to keep clothing and other personal belongings;

4. Indoor bathing and toilet facilities in good working order with a door for privacy;

5. At least one toilet, basin, and tub or shower shall be available for every eight persons;

6. A separate, comfortable bed for each child and sufficient bedding to ensure cleanliness and comfort. A crib that meets current Consumer Product Safety Commission standards (16 CFR Parts 1508 and 1509) shall be provided for infants and children not developmentally ready to sleep in a bed. Exception: Two siblings of the same sex may occupy a double bed; and

7. Sleeping space on the first floor for children unable to use stairs unassisted, except children who can easily be carried.

B. All rooms used by children shall be heated to at least 68°F in winter, dry and well-ventilated.

C. A child-safe, mechanical cooling device, e.g., an electric fan or air conditioner, shall be used when the temperature inside the room exceeds 80°F.

D. All doors and windows used for ventilation shall be screened.

E. Rooms used by children shall be well-lighted for activities and the comfort of children.

F. The home shall have a working telephone available to all household members for use in case of emergency.

G. The telephone number shall be provided to:

1. The licensing representative;

2. Parents and legal guardians of children placed in the home; and

3. Children when they are away from the home.

H. No more than four children shall occupy one bedroom.

1. Children of the opposite sex over the age of two shall not share a bedroom.

2. Children shall not share a bed or bedroom with the provider or other adult.

I. There shall be at least three feet between each bed and sufficient space for each child to move about safely.

J. There shall be provision for isolation of sick children.

K. If the licensing representative observes conditions that indicate the need for an inspection by the local health department and makes this request of the provider, the provider shall comply and provide a copy of the report to the department.

L. The provider shall ensure that a smoke-free environment is provided in rooms accessible to children while children are in care.

Statutory Authority

§§ 63.2-217 and 63.2-1734 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 15, Issue 10, eff. March 3, 1999; amended, Virginia Register Volume 21, Issue 6, eff. February 1, 2005; Volume 22, Issue 10, eff. February 22, 2006.

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