This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and
universities.
| Rule |
Rule 5180:2-9-02 | Staffing requirements.
Effective:
February 15, 2024
(A) When children are present during
waking hours in a residential facility living unit, there is to be at least one
child care staff person for each ten children. Child care staff is to be on
duty providing supervision to children where two or more children are
congregated to ensure an appropriate level of supervision of all areas of the
facility considering the ages and functioning levels of children in
care. (B) Child care staff is to provide
supervision within sight or sound of the child or pursuant to the level of
supervision specified in the child's service plan. A child may be left
alone or unsupervised only in accordance with the service plan of that
child. (C) At least one child care staff person
for every five infants or toddlers is to be present in a residential parenting
facility to provide care and supervision to children in the absence of teenage
mothers. (D) A residential parenting facility will
not permit a teenage mother to provide care or supervision to any child other
than her own in the absence of the child's mother or child care
staff. (E) A children's residential center
(CRC) or residential parenting facility is to have at least one awake child
care staff person in each living unit where children are present during
nighttime sleeping hours. (F) Staff members at a residential
facility will not have overnight guests in the facility except for the children
of live-in staff members, who have resided in the home and are under the age of
twenty-two. (G) In accordance with rule 5101:2-5-09.1
of the Administrative Code, a criminal records check and background check is to
be requested for each person eighteen years of age or older that resides with
the staff members in a residential facility. (H) A JFS 01653 "Medical Statement
for Foster Care/Adoptive Applicant and All Household Members" is to be
completed for each person eighteen years of age or older that resides with the
staff members in a residential facility. (I) Children of staff members and children of residents living in
a residential facility are to be counted in all child care staff
ratios. (J) Each residential facility is to have a written work schedule
including provisions for use of relief staff, and a backup plan for emergency
relief staff. (K) A residential facility is to have at
least one child care staff on site who is: (1) Trained in the
reasonable and prudent parent standard as described in division (C) of section
5103.162 of the Revised Code. (2) Designated to make
decisions involving the participation of a child in age appropriate or
developmentally appropriate activities. (3) Designated to be the
caregiver authorized to apply the reasonable and prudent parent
standard. (L) All relief child care staff and emergency child care staff of
a residential facility are to meet the requirements of rules 5101:2-5-09,
5101:2-5-09.1 and 5101:2-9-03 of the Administrative Code. (M) Newly hired child care staff are to be given on-the-job
supervision and will not be left unsupervised with residents until all of the
following requirements have been met: (1) The person has
completed the initial orientation required by rule 5101:2-9-03 of the
Administrative Code; (2) The person possesses a current
American red cross, American heart association or equivalent first aid and
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification. The CPR certification is to
be the type applicable to the age and size of the children able to be served in
the facility.
Last updated July 31, 2026 at 3:34 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-03 | Staff development and evaluation.
(A) A residential facility shall provide
each child care staff person with a minimum of twenty hours of orientation
within the first thirty days after the date of hire. The training required by
this paragraph may be conducted outside the residential facility. Regular
ongoing duties of an employee, including casework supervision and consultation,
shall not be counted toward the requirements of this paragraph. (1) If a training is
conducted outside the residential facility, the training shall include a
transfer of learning component prior to or following the training. (2) The transfer of
learning component may include a pretest, a posttest, or a discussion following
the training. (B) Each child care staff person shall
receive an additional thirty-two hours of training during the first year of
employment. This requirement shall result in each child care staff person
receiving a minimum of fifty-two hours of training during the first twelve
months of employment. The training required by this paragraph may be conducted
outside the residential facility. Regular ongoing duties of an employee, under
the supervision of child care staff who have met all of their training
requirements, including casework supervision and consultation, shall not exceed
fifty per cent of the requirements of this paragraph. (1) If a training is
conducted outside the residential facility, the training shall include a
transfer of learning component prior to or following the training. (2) The transfer of
learning component may include a pretest, a posttest, or a discussion following
the training. (C) If an agency requires more than
twenty hours of initial orientation, the additional hours may be counted toward
the total number of hours required by paragraph (B) of this rule. (D) Following the completion of the
training as required by paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule, each child care
staff person shall receive at least twenty-four hours of annual training
related to agency policy, procedure, rules and the population that the agency
serves. The training shall include documentation of the transfer of learning
components addressed in paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule. Regular ongoing
duties of an employee, including casework supervision and consultation, shall
not be counted toward the requirements of this paragraph. (E) If a child care staff person is or
will be providing care for a youth at least fourteen years of age, the person
shall be prepared adequately with the appropriate knowledge and skills to
understand and address the issues confronting adolescents preparing for
independent living, and provide such services as are needed and appropriate. To
the extent possible, such services shall be coordinated with the life skills
services required to be provided by rule 5101:2-42-19 of the Administrative
Code. (F) If a child care staff person is separated from employment
from the agency and returns to work with the agency, the employee shall not be
required to complete the new orientation training requirements of paragraph (A)
of this rule if the employee returns to work with the agency within one year
from the date the employee separated employment. (G) A child care staff person may still be allowed to work if the
employee was not able to meet the continuing training requirements due to any
of the following: (1) Extended
leave. (2) Separation of
employment for less than one year. (3) Extended
illness. (4) Critical
emergencies. (5) Cancellation of
training classes. (H) If a child care staff person fails to complete their
continuing training timely: (1) The employee shall
not be left alone with residents until all of the incomplete training hours are
met. (2) The record shall
contain documentation of the reason the training hours were not
met. (3) The employee shall
complete the missed training within sixty days of returning to
work. (4) The employee is
responsible for completing their ongoing annual continuing training in addition
to any training they failed to complete. (I) Initial orientation of new child care staff pursuant to
paragraph (A) of this rule shall include, but not be limited to: (1) Familiarization of
the employee with emergency and safety procedures of the residential
facility. (2) The principles and
practices of child care. (3) Administrative
structure, procedures, and overall program goals of the residential
facility. (4) The trauma informed approach
implemented by the agency as required by rule 5101:2-9-42 of the Administrative
Code, if the individual does not have a current "Level 2 Trauma
Informed" or "Level 3 Trauma Competent"
certificate. (5) Appropriate techniques of behavior
management. (6) Techniques and methodologies of
crisis management including acceptable physical restraint or acceptable
alternatives to restraint, if restraint is prohibited. (7) Familiarization of the employee with
the discipline policy restrictions outlined in rule 5101:2-9-21 of the
Administrative Code, the discipline and behavior intervention policy required
by rule 5101:2-5-13 of the Administrative Code, and any additional requirements
the agency may have. (8) Procedures for reporting suspected
child abuse or neglect pursuant to section 2151.421 of the Revised
Code. (9) The emergency medical plan of the
residential facility. (10) Universal precautions. (11) If a child care staff person will be
providing care for a youth at least fourteen years of age, the person shall be
prepared adequately with the appropriate knowledge and skills to understand and
address the issues confronting adolescents preparing for independent living,
and provide such services as are needed and appropriate. To the extent
possible, such services shall be coordinated with the life skill services
required to be provided by rule 5101:2-42-19 of the Administrative
Code. (12) A review of Chapter 5101:2-9 of the
Administrative Code as applicable to the functions of the agency. (13) The implementation of the community
engagement plan as described in division (B) of section 5103.051 of the Revised
Code. (14) The procedures for responding to
incidents involving a child at the facility and neighbors or the police as
described in division (B) of section 5103.051 of the Revised Code. (15) The reasonable and prudent parent
standard as described in division (C) of section 5103.162 of the Revised
Code. (J) Each residential facility shall assure that all child care
staff hired possess a current American red cross, American heart association,
or equivalent first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification
at the time of hire or within six months following the date of hire. Child care
staff of a group home or children's residential center shall be certified
in the type applicable to the age and size of the children to be served in the
facility. Child care staff of a residential parenting facility and a
children's crisis care facility shall be certified in infant, adult and
child CPR. The first aid and CPR certifications shall be maintained current at
all times unless the employee meets one of the following
exceptions: (1) Extended
leave. (2) Separation of
employment for less than one year. (3) Extended
illness. (4) Critical
emergencies. (5) Cancellation of
training classes. (K) A child care staff person shall not be permitted to work with
children without another child care staff who is current on all first aid and
CPR training and who is present at all times. If a child care staff
person's first aid and CPR certification has been expired for more than
ninety days, the staff member shall not be permitted to work in the facility
without the required certification. (L) There shall be at least one staff person with first aid and
CPR certification on duty at all times in a living unit. (M) Each residential facility shall document the completion of
the training activities required by this rule in the personnel record
maintained pursuant to rule 5101:2-5-09 of the Administrative
Code. (N) Physical restraint of a child shall only be utilized by a
child care staff person who has received specific training and annual review in
acceptable methods of restraint. Documentation of such training shall be
contained in the employee's personnel record. (O) If the facility revises any policy pertaining to children or
child care staff, the child care staff shall receive training on the policy
within thirty days of the revision. (P) If a residential facility has a policy prohibiting the use of
physical restraint, the facility shall complete annual training for all child
care staff in acceptable alternatives to restraint. (Q) If a residential facility has a policy allowing the use of
physical restraint, the facility shall complete annual training in acceptable
methods of restraint for the child care staff. (R) Physical restraint may be used by child care staff
only: (1) For self
protection. (2) For protection of the
child from imminent harm. (3) To protect another
person from the child. (S) Child care staff shall use only the least restrictive
physical restraint necessary to control a situation. (T) Each residential facility is to
ensure completion of initial and annual training for all employees, volunteers,
and independent contractors within the facility in trauma-informed care, or the
individual must have a current "Level 2 Trauma Informed" or
"Level 3 Trauma Competent" certificate.
Last updated July 31, 2026 at 3:34 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-04 | General maintenance of a residential facility.
(A) All structures, grounds, furnishings
or equipment used by or located on the grounds of a residential facility shall
be continually maintained in good repair and in clean condition. (B) All rooms, corridors, and stairways
inside a residential facility shall be equipped with operable electric
illumination. (C) Each residential facility shall have
working exterior electrical illumination for operable entrances and stairways
to occupied buildings. (D) A residential facility shall have a
continuous supply of clean drinking water. If the residential facility's
water supply is not obtained from a municipal water supply, a water district
water supply or a vendor of bottled water, the facility's water supply
shall be tested and approved by a municipal or county health department or by
the Ohio department of health within twelve months prior to initial
certification and annually thereafter.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-05 | Requirements for residential parenting facility and crisis care facility furniture, materials and equipment; diaper changing.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What safety requirements apply to equipment, materials, and furniture in residential parenting and crisis care facilities? All equipment, materials, and furniture in a residential parenting facility and crisis care facility are to be sturdy and safe, easy to clean and maintain, and free of sharp points or corners, splinters, protruding nails, loose or rusty parts or other hazardous features. (B) What precautions should be taken with toys and small objects? Toys or other materials small enough to be swallowed by an infant or toddler are to be kept out of their reach. (C) How should cleaning equipment and chemicals be stored? Cleaning equipment, cleaning agents, aerosol cans, or other chemical substances are to be stored in the original containers or clearly labeled, and not accessible to children. Items are to be locked in a cabinet, drawer or room when not in use. (D) How should stationary outdoor recreational equipment be maintained? Stationary outdoor recreational equipment including, but not limited to, climbing gyms, swings or slides are to be securely anchored. (E) Are lawn mowers or hedge clippers allowed near children? Lawn mowers, hedge clippers and other similar machinery are not to be used in an outdoor play area when a child is present in the play area. (F) What safety measures apply to hard surfaces under climbing equipment? A tile floor, concrete, asphalt, or other hard surface under any indoor or outdoor climbing apparatus are to be covered by a cushioned protective surface, such as, but not limited to, mats, mulch, sand or wood chips. (G) How should wading pools be managed? Wading pools are to be stored or are not to be accessible to children when not in use. When any child is in a wading or swimming pool, the child's parent and/or child care staff of the facility are to be present to supervise the child. (H) What precautions apply to electrical outlets? All electrical outlets within reach of an infant or toddler are to have protective coverings when not in use. (I) How should toilets and sinks be adapted for children? Toilets and sinks are to be of suitable height for use by a child or are to have a sturdy portable platform on which a child may stand. (J) What are the guidelines for potty chairs? Potty chairs are not to be located in areas used for food preparation or serving. Potty chairs are to be emptied, washed, rinsed and disinfected after each use. (K) How often should toilets be disinfected? Toilets are to be disinfected at least once daily or more often as needed using an appropriate germicidal agent. (L) How should washable furniture and toys be cleaned? Washable equipment and furniture are to be cleaned with soap and water at least once per month. Any item soiled during daily use with, but not limited to, blood, vomit, feces, urine and spills are immediately to be cleaned with soap and water and disinfected with an appropriate germicidal agent. Toys and other items placed in a child's mouth are to be cleaned thoroughly and disinfected with an appropriate germicidal solution and rinsed with water at least daily and immediately if soiled with blood, feces, urine or vomit. (M) What are the requirements for diaper changing areas? Changing diapers for all non-toilet trained children in a residential parenting facility or crisis care facility are to be handled in conformity with the following methods: (1) Diaper changes for all non-toilet trained children is to occur in a space that has a hand washing facility. (2) Hands of the person caring for the child are to be washed with soap and water before and after each diaper change. (3) When a central diaper changing station is used, there is to be a disposable separation material, that acts as a barrier placed between the child and the changing surface, which is discarded after each use. (4) Any product used during diapering, which is used on more than one child, is to be used so that the container does not touch the child. Any product obtained from a common container is to be removed and applied in such a manner so as not to contaminate the product or its container. Common containers are to be cleaned and sanitized after each use. (5) Storage and laundering of soiled diapers are to be handled in accordance with the following methods: (a) Soiled diapers are to be disposed of in a plastic lined receptacle that prevents hand contamination. The receptacle is to be covered or otherwise enclosed and be inaccessible to children. These containers are to be emptied, cleaned and sanitized at least daily, or more frequently as needed to eliminate odor. (b) Soiled diapers to be laundered are to be stored in an appropriate germicidal solution, out of the reach of children, until laundered. Diapers to be laundered are to be held for laundering for no longer than one day.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:24 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-06 | General Safety.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) Can a residential facility maintain explosives, firearms, or similar dangerous items on its grounds? No residential facility shall maintain any explosives, pyrotechnics, firearms, chemical weapons, or other similar device or substance anywhere on the grounds of the facility. (B) May staff, children, or security personnel carry weapons while on duty or on the grounds of a residential facility? No residential facility shall permit any staff person, child, or security personnel to bear any firearm, chemical weapon, or other weapon or similar device while such person is anywhere on the grounds of the facility or on duty or engaged in the transportation of a child. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed as prohibiting law enforcement authorities from bearing arms when they are present at the residential facility in conjunction with their official responsibilities. (C) What are the requirements regarding paint conditions in a residential facility? A residential facility is to be free of peeling or chipping paint. If a potential lead hazard is identified, the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) is to make a referral to the appropriate agency. (D) What safety measures are required for elevated structures like porches or patios? All porches and patios more than thirty-six inches above ground level, elevated walkways, and elevated play areas on the grounds of a residential facility shall be enclosed with barriers designed to prevent falls. (E) How should workshop or outdoor power-driven equipment be maintained and used? All workshop or outdoor power-driven equipment used by a residential facility shall be maintained and operated in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Such equipment may be used by children as permitted by law but only when under the supervision of a staff person. (F) Is smoking allowed in residential facilities? Smoking shall not be permitted in the presence of a child. If a residential facility permits smoking, the facility shall allow smoking only in an outdoor designated area. In the designated smoking area there shall be a proper smoking waste receptacle for collection of waste. All employees who engage in smoking shall wash their hands when they reenter the facility. There shall be no smoking in vehicles while transporting children of the facility. (G) What are the requirements for stairways accessible to children? All stairways accessible to children within or on the grounds of a residential facility which contain more than four steps shall be equipped with a railing. In addition, any facility which is a residential parenting facility or crisis care facility shall guard all stairways accessible to children with a safety gate. (H) How should outdoor hazardous areas be managed? Outdoor areas located on or directly adjacent to a residential facility which are potentially hazardous to residents shall be safeguarded considering the age and functioning level of the residents. (I) What documentation is required for swimming pools at residential facilities? Each residential facility must maintain documentation verifying that all swimming pools maintained by the facility comply with the requirements of any local or state codes. (J) How should pets or domesticated animals be managed? Pets and other domesticated animals on residential facility premises shall be kept in a safe and sanitary manner in accordance with state and local laws. Pet vaccinations must be kept up to date at all times. (K) How are children and teenage mothers protected from potentially dangerous animals? All children or teenage mothers residing at a residential facility shall be protected from animals in or on the premises of the facility which are potentially dangerous to their health and safety. (L) What are the requirements for door locks in rooms or storage areas? (1) Any room or storage area within a residential facility where a child could be confined must have at least one door equipped with a lock that can be opened from both sides and unlocked from the inside without a key. (2) Doors located on the grounds of a residential facility that do not require a lock that can be unlocked from either side of the door are: (a) A separate entrance to a portion of the residential facility such as a cellar, basement or outside storage room that is not accessible from within the residential facility. (b) A separate building such as a garage, barn or storage shed on the grounds of a residential facility. (c) Keys to these type of doors shall be kept in a place accessible only to staff of the facility. (M) What are the requirements for toilet and shower stall doors? All doors on toilet stalls and bathtub or shower stalls used by children in a residential facility shall be of the type which permit the door to be unlatched from either side of the door unless the stall design allows emergency access by climbing over or crawling under the partitions. (N) How must poisonous, toxic, or flammable substances be stored? (1) Residential facilities that store poisonous, toxic, or flammable substances for any purpose must keep these materials in locked storage areas separate and apart from food and handle them in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction. (2) Flammable substances are to be stored and vented in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions in addition to any instructions of the local or state fire inspector. (3) All hazardous material are to be properly labeled. (4) Laundry supplies, except bleach, may be stored in an unlocked storage space separate and apart from food. (O) What are the requirements for outdoor recreational equipment? Stationary or portable outdoor recreational equipment such as designated climbing structures, swings and slides shall be anchored or stable. All recreational equipment must be age-appropriate and suited to the child's functional abilities. (P) What are the surface requirements around recreational equipment? Outdoor recreational equipment designated for climbing, swinging and sliding must be installed over a protective, resilient surface that meets the following safety standards: (1) Fall zones shall have a protective resilient material on the ground under and around the equipment. (2) The material shall be, but not limited to, washed pea gravel, mulch, sand, wood chips, synthetic material such as rubber mats or tiles manufactured for this purpose. Synthetic surfaces shall follow manufacturer's guidelines for depth. (3) Equipment shall not be placed over grass, concrete, asphalt, blacktop, dirt, rocks, or any hard surface. (4) Any loose-fill particulate impact absorbing material under and around recreational equipment shall be checked at least monthly for packing, and shall be turned over or raked up to increase the resilience capability.
Last updated August 14, 2026 at 7:47 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-07 | Emergency planning and preparedness.
Effective:
January 1, 2026
(A) What are the requirements for a
residential facility's emergency procedures? A residential facility is to develop and
implement written procedures for staff and residents to follow in emergencies
and disasters. These procedures are to be approved by a local or state fire
inspector and are to include: (1) Specific
instructions and procedures for the evacuation of buildings. (2) Assignment of
staff during emergencies. (3) A contingency
plan for the care of residents who have been evacuated. (4) If the
residential facility cares for children with disabilities, the facility is to
provide specific instructions for their evacuation. (B) What is the requirement for
residential facilities regarding emergency on-call procedures? Pursuant to section 5103.0510 of the Revised Code
regarding emergencies involving a child under the care and supervision of the
facility, each operator of a residential facility is required to establish a
twenty-four hour emergency on-call procedure describing how they will respond
to contact from: (1) Emergency
departments. (2) Hospitals. (3) Law enforcement
officers. (4) First
responders (firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical
technicians). (C) What is the expected response time
for a residential facility to address an emergency? The residential facility is expected to address
the emergency within four hours of an emergency call from any of the emergency
departments outlined in paragraph (B) of this rule. (D) Who should a residential facility
endure are familiar with the agency's emergency procedures? The facility is to ensure that all staff and
residents are familiar with its emergency procedures. (E) What is the requirement regarding
fire drills and emergency evacuations? In consultation with state or local fire
personnel, the facility is to develop and implement a calendar of periodic fire
drills and emergency evacuations at varying times and shifts. (1) The evacuation
plan is to be approved by a fire inspector and clearly posted in each facility
so that it may be easily seen by all staff and residents. (2) Fire drills are
to occur at least once each month or in accordance with the calendar of
periodic drills developed with fire personnel. (3) A log of all
drills and evacuations is to be maintained within the agency's policies and be
available for review upon request.
Last updated January 5, 2026 at 9:02 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-08 | Fire safety.
Effective:
January 1, 2025
(A) A residential facility is to secure a
JFS 01200 "Fire Inspection Report Child Care Facilities Licensed/Certified
by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services" fire safety approval or
other form used for a local or state fire inspection in each of the following
instances: (1) Within six months
prior to initial certification. (2) At the time of any
major modification or alteration of any existing structure, unless the
structure will no longer be in use and is inaccessible to
children. (3) Not more than twelve
months following the date of the previous inspection. (B) A residential facility is not to be
certified without an approved fire safety inspection obtained pursuant to
paragraph (A) of this rule. (C) All fire safety approvals are to be
secured from the state fire marshal or from a township or municipal fire
department which has personnel certified to inspect and approve the fire and
building code use group applicable to the residential facility. (D) Each residential facility is to have
smoke detectors located according to instructions of the local fire safety
inspector or state fire marshal. (E) Each smoke detector located in a
residential facility is to be tested at least twice annually at regularly
spaced intervals. Such testing is to be documented in a log which indicates the
date of the test, the results, and action taken if the result of the test
indicated that the smoke detector was inoperable or malfunctioning. If the
facility has a combined smoke detector and fire alarm system a fire alarm
inspection is to be conducted by a company approved to test such equipment at
least twice annually at regularly spaced intervals or approved by local or
state fire inspector. The facility is to obtain annual alarm system testing and
is to have documentation of testing. (F) Each residential facility is to have
fire extinguishers in specific locations as specified by the certified fire
inspector. Fire extinguishers are to be inspected as specified by the fire
inspector and documentation maintained. (G) No residential facility is to allow candles to be burned in
sleeping areas. (H) Free-standing wood-burning stoves and unvented heaters that
burn kerosene, gas or oil are not to be used in a residential
facility. (I) Portable heaters may be used and
maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions, if the heater
has been approved by the underwriter's laboratory, and are not prohibited
by any local or state ordinances or fire inspector.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-09 | Emergency medical plan and first aid supplies.
(A) A residential facility shall have a
written medical emergency plan which shall include: (1) Current emergency
telephone numbers for fire, emergency squad, police, poison control, and
security services. (2) Locations of first
aid supplies. (a) There shall be first aid supplies in each residential living
unit, in each building used by children and in each vehicle used, owned, leased
or rented by the residential facility to transport children. (b) All first aid supplies shall be stored in closed containers
and shall be accessible to staff at all times. (3) General instructions
for medical emergencies including supervision of children during the
emergency. (4) General instructions
in case of illness of a child. (B) A residential facility shall document
and keep in the employee training records that each employee is trained in
implementation of the emergency medical plan. (C) A copy of the emergency medical plan
shall be posted in each building used by children.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-11 | Admissions and admissions log.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What is to be included in a residential facility's admission policy? (1) A description of the type of child who will be accepted into the facility, including but not limited to age and sex and needs of the child. (2) The conditions under which a child would not be accepted. (B) Can a residential facility admit a child who does not meet its admission policy or certified criteria? (1) A residential facility can not accept into care any child who does not meet the facility's policy or the facility's certified capacity and gender criteria. (2) Under specific circumstances a facility may admit a child who falls outside of its age limitation policy if, in conjunction with a court. it determines that: (a) The facility can meet the child's immediate needs; and (b) The placement will not negatively impact the current population of children served under the agency's policy. (C) Are adults allowed to be admitted as residents into a residential facility? A residential facility is not to admit adults as residents into the facility. A facility may admit a person aged eighteen or older if the person meets the definition of a child pursuant to rule 5180:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code and is in the care and custody of a public children services agency (PCSA). (D) What happens if a current resident turns eighteen? If a current resident of the facility reaches age eighteen and is expected to graduate from secondary school by his or her nineteenth birthday or remains in the care and custody of a PCSA and meets the definition of a child pursuant to rule 5180:2-1-01 of the Administrative Code, the facility may allow the resident to remain as a resident. (E) Can children under six years of age be admitted? A residential facility will not admit any child under the age of six years except: (1) If the child is at least four years of age and is part of a sibling group being admitted to the residential facility where at least one of the members of the sibling group is six years of age or older. Placement of such child under the age of six years is not to exceed fourteen days. (2) If the child is the child of a teenage mother being admitted with the child's parent to a residential parenting facility. (3) If the child is admitted into a children's crisis care facility in accordance with rule 5180:2-9-36 of the Administrative Code. (4) If the child is admitted into a residential infant care center in accordance with rule 5180:2-9-43 of the Administrative Code. (F) What agreement is to be in place for each child admitted? A residential facility is to have a written individual child care agreement for each child, as required by rule 5180:3-13-90 of the Administrative Code, with the person or agency holding custody of the child. A written individual child care agreement will also be executed for each child of a teenage mother placed in a residential parenting facility with the person or agency holding custody of the child. (G) How should the facility handle child care agreement documentation? (1) If the custodial agency provided a child's individual child care agreement, the residential facility is to maintain a copy of the agreement in the child's file. (2) A residential facility is to maintain documentation that the agency requested a copy of each child's individual child care agreement executed between the custodial agency and the residential facility, in the child's record. (H) Can a residential facility exceed its certified capacity? A residential facility is not to exceed its certified capacity. (I) What information is to be included and available in a residential facility's onsite admissions log? (1) The name of each child admitted. (2) The date of admission. (3) The child's date of birth. (4) The date of discharge. (5) Such information will also be recorded on the admissions log for a child of a teenage mother admitted to a residential parenting facility. (J) What documentation is to be completed at or before admission? (1) A photograph along with a physical description of each child. (2) Any available medical information. (3) The name, phone number and address of the custodial agency or custodian placing the child. (4) The reason for placement. (5) The name of the person who transported the child to the residential facility and the name of the agency with which the person transporting the child is affiliated, if any. (6) The name of the placing agency contact person for the child, when applicable.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:25 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-12 | Service plans.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) When is a service plan to be developed for a child or teenage mother admitted to a residential facility? The service plan is to be developed in writing and approved within thirty days before or after a child's or teenage mother's admission to the residential facility. (B) Who is to be invited to help create and carry out the service plan? (1) The following are to be invited to a meeting for the purpose of the development and implementation of the service plan: (a) The child, as appropriate to age and functioning level, including a child involved in OhioRISE. (b) The child's family, if applicable. (c) The individual or agency that placed the child. (d) The guardian ad litem (GAL) and probation officer, if applicable. (e) The court appointed special advocate (CASA), if applicable. (f) Staff members of the residential facility who provide direct care or service to the youth. (g) OhioRISE care coordinator, if applicable. (2) If any party is unable to attend in person, their input may be obtained and documented in writing or through phone or virtual participation. (C) Who is authorized to approve the service plan in writing? (1) A licensed social worker. (2) A licensed independent social worker. (3) A licensed professional counselor. (4) A licensed professional clinical counselor. (5) A civil service employee engaging in social work or professional counseling for a residential facility operated by a public children services agency (PCSA) or a local public entity (LPE) as described in rule 5180:2-5-02 of the Administrative Code. If a civil service employee is not a licensed social worker or licensed counselor, the employee is not to approve service plans for any other facility except a residential facility operated by the PCSA they are employed with. (D) What is the service plan to include, at a minimum? (1) A description of child specific goals and objectives the placement is designed to achieve including the timeframe for meeting the placement goals and objectives. (2) A statement of the placement plans upon discharge. (3) A description of educational, counseling, recreational, vocational, religious and health care activities or services that will be provided to the child by the residential facility. (4) A review of medication the child is currently prescribed pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-14 of the Administrative Code. (5) A description of any specialized services that will be provided or arranged. (6) Frequency of progress reports to be provided to the individual or agency having custody which placed the child. (7) Specifications for visitation between the child or teenage mother and family or friends, pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-16 of the Administrative Code. (8) A behavior intervention plan that is to identify each behavioral management technique to be used with the child and the techniques that are not advised based upon the child's medical, psychological or developmental history. Behavioral management techniques selected are to be based, at a minimum, upon the following considerations: (a) The age, size and developmental level of the child. (b) Known behavioral triggers for the child. (i) Effective positive behavioral interventions and de-escalation strategies. (ii) Preferred coping mechanisms or supports that help the youth self-regulate. (c) The nature, pattern, and number of complaints or adjudicated felonies against the child. (d) The previous placement history of the child (absences without leave, disciplinary problems). (e) An assessment completed by a certified or licensed health care professional that documents whether there are medical restrictions to the use of specific behavior management interventions or behavior management techniques. (f) An assessment completed by a certified or licensed practitioner of behavioral science that documents whether there are psychological or developmental restrictions to the use of specific behavior management interventions or behavior management techniques. (g) The behavior intervention plan including all considerations outlined in paragraph (D)(8) of this rule are to be documented in the service plan. (9) Specifications for supervision of the child. (a) The service plan is to specify the type of supervision needed for the child, including any conditions under which the child may be permitted unsupervised time in the community. (b) The child's legal custodian is to approve any unsupervised community time. This approval is to be documented in the service plan. (E) What are the requirements for conducting service plan reviews in a residential facility? (1) Service plan reviews are to be conducted no later than ninety days after the initial approval and every ninety days from the most recent review thereafter. (2) For each review, the facility is to invite all individuals involved in the development and implementation of the service plan. (a) If the status or assignment of an individual has changed, the facility is to invite the current individual or representative in that role. (b) A lack of prior response or participation does not remove the opportunity to extend an invitation for subsequent reviews. (3) In consultation with the individual or agency holding custody of the child, the team is to evaluate the entire plan and make any necessary amendments. (4) The service plan review is to include an assessment of the current adjustment of the child and a determination of whether the child should remain in the facility. (5) Reviews should be scheduled at reasonable times to ensure availability and participation of all invited parties. (F) Where should information regarding service plans be documented? (1) Documentation of invitations and any input provided outside of the service plan review should be included in the child's record. (2) The reviews are to be documented in the child record. (G) Who receives copies of the service plan and its reviews? (1) A residential facility is to provide a written copy of the service plan and service plan review to the individual or agency that placed the child. (2) The residential facility is to document that the service plan and service plan review was provided to the individual or agency that placed the child. (H) Where is the service plan and behavior plan kept for staff access? (1) Each youth's service plan and behavior plan are to be accessible onsite at the residential facility and available for review by staff responsible for the youth's care. (2) Staff should review the plans regularly to ensure consistent, informed care and timely responses to the youth's needs and behaviors.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:25 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-14 | Medications.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What is the proper procedure for managing a child's medication during admission to a residential facility? Upon admission to a residential facility the staff of the facility is to document all medications the child is currently prescribed, as well as any over the counter medications the child takes on a regular basis, in accordance with rule 5180:2-42-66.2 of the Administrative Code. (B) How often is a child's mediation regimen to be reviewed and documented? (1) The residential facility is to review a child's medication regimen at least every six months during service plan reviews. (2) Any changes to the medication regimen authorized by the licensed health professional is to be documented by staff immediately upon implementation. Implementation refers to: (a) At the point medication change is carried out with the child, when the first does of a new or altered medication is administered; or (b) When the first scheduled dose is withheld, authorized by the licensed health professional's order. (C) What kind of approval is needed before starting, altering, or stopping medication? In no event shall staff of a residential facility begin, alter, or suspend a child's or teenage mother's medication without the documented verbal or written approval of a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe medication. (D) What is staff to do if a child misses a does or multiple doses of medication? If a child misses dosages of the medication for longer than a forty-eight hour period, staff of the residential facility will contact a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe medication or the pharmacist that filled the prescription and obtain verbal or written instruction on how to restart the medication. (E) What information should staff responsible for administering medication have access to? Each staff person who is responsible for administering medication to a child is to be provided with a written schedule of the child's medication. This schedule is to be maintained in each child's case record as outlined by rule 5180:2-5-10 of the Administrative Code and is to include, but is not limited to, the following instructions and information: (1) The name of the child. (2) The name of each medication to be administered. (3) The proper dosage of each medication to be administered. (4) The timetable for administration of medication. (5) Instructions regarding administration of medication. (6) Information concerning possible side effects of each medication as indicated by the drug manufacturer's official website, a physician, pharmacist or a licensed health professional authorized to prescribe drugs. (7) Contact information for the prescribing physician. (F) Is it permissible to administer medication to a child that was prescribed for someone else? A child is not to be given any prescription medication which has not been prescribed for the child. (G) How does a residential facility track the administration of medication? Each residential facility is to maintain a written cumulative record of all prescribed medication administered to a child during placement in the facility. The current record is to be located with the medication and is to reflect reasons for altered or missed dosages of prescribed medication. (H) How are medication to be stored in a residential facility? All medication in a residential facility is to be stored in a locked cabinet or storage area away from children except that an inhaler or other medication may be available to a person with a special health condition, who may need these for an emergency.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:25 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-15 | Residential facility handbook for residents and their families.
(A) A residential facility shall have a
handbook for residents and their families. This handbook shall be written in
simple language and shall summarize the information included in the residential
facility statement of purpose and program. In addition the handbook is to
contain, but is not limited to: (1) Rules and
expectations for residents. (2) Visiting hours and
visitation and communication policies pursuant to rule 5101:2-5-13 of the
Administrative Code. (3) The role and
responsibility of the family in the care and treatment of the
child. (4) A complaint procedure
for the resident and family pursuant to rule 5101:2-9-24 of the Administrative
Code. (5) An explanation of the
procedure to report alleged child abuse or neglect to the local PCSA or law
enforcement agency. (6) The foster youth bill
of rights as contained in rule 5101:2-5-35 of the Administrative
Code. (7) Contact information
for the Ohio youth ombudsman and information on how to make a complaint to the
Ohio youth ombudsman. This information is to include the phone number and
online complaint form for the Ohio youth ombudsman along with procedures for
the resident to have private access to a phone or computer for the purpose of
contacting the Ohio youth ombudsman. (B) A residential facility shall provide
the handbook to the custodial agency, custodial parent or guardian of a
resident and to each resident. The residential facility shall explain the
contents of the handbook to the resident not later than three days after
admission, according to the age and functioning level of the resident,
providing assistance for the parent or guardian and resident who may have a
disability. The residential facility shall document the handbook was provided
and explained in the child's case record. (C) Any revisions to the handbook shall
be provided to the custodial agency, custodial parent or guardian of a resident
and to each resident in writing no later than fourteen days after the
revision.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-16 | Visiting and communications.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What is a residential facility to do regarding visitation and communication? A residential facility is to develop procedures to ensure that arrangements for visitation and communication between the child and family, including siblings, or friends are consistent with the family case plan and that such arrangements are documented in the service plan. (B) Can a child in a residential facility send and receive mail? A residential facility is to allow a child to send and receive mail subject only to the residential facility's rules regarding contraband and directives from the child's legal custodian when such rules and directives do not conflict with federal postal regulations. (C) Can staff open or read a child's mail? A residential facility is not to open or read a child's mail unless specified in the child's family case plan and/or service plan and approved by the child's custodian. (D) What happens if staff suspect contraband in the mail? A residential facility may require the child to open mail in front of a staff person if contraband is suspected and empty the package or envelope. (E) Can a child in a residential facility have phone access? A residential facility is to, in accordance with the service plan, allow a child access to a telephone which will permit the child to make and receive calls with appropriate privacy. (F) How quickly can a child contact essential individuals after a request? (1) Within twenty-four hours of requesting, a child is allowed to privately contact their: (a) Attorney. (b) Caseworker or custodial agency worker. (c) Probation officer. (d) Court-appointed special advocate (CASA). (e) Guardian ad litem (GAL). (f) Youth ombudsman office. (2) If a child has a disability, the child is to have the opportunity to contact the state protection and advocacy organization, in accordance with section 5123.60 of the Revised Code. Staff are to ensure the child receives any necessary assistance or accommodation to facilitate this contact. (G) Is a residential facility to provide private spaces for visits? A residential facility must provide a private space that has a door and can be used for confidential conversations, phone calls, and visits. This area is to be separate from any area where children sleep or live. (H) How is electronic communication to be handled? A residential facility is to ensure that a child who has access to electronic media within or outside of the facility while under the supervision of agency staff, which may include internet, cell phones and e-mail service, adheres to the agency's policy regarding communications.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:25 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-17 | Child's money.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) Who owns the money a child earns or receives while in a residential facility? Any money provided to or earned by a child is considered to be the child's money and not funds belonging to the staff or the residential facility. (B) How should the facility manage and protect a child's money? A residential facility is to ensure that any child having the opportunity to receive or earn money has an account either at an established financial institution or in the residential facility for the safe keeping of such money. (C) If the facility holds the child's money, what record keeping is required? (1) A written record of the current balance, deposits, withdrawals, and any interest earned is to be provided upon request. (2) At least every three months or at the time of discharge a written report of the current balance, deposits, withdrawals, and any interest earned is to be provided to the child. (3) A copy of the written report is to be maintained in the child's record. (D) Can the facility give the child something other than cash to use in-house? A residential facility may issue credit script to children, in lieu of legal tender, for use within the facility. (E) When is the facility return a child's money? (1) At the time of a planned discharge. (2) Within ten days if the discharge is not planned. (F) Can the facility charge a child for things they are supposed to receive? A residential facility is not to charge a resident for an item recommended to be provided to the resident as outlined in Chapter 5180:2-9 of the Administrative Code unless the resident is learning life skills as part of an independent living program pursuant to rules 5180:2-42-19 and 5180:2-42-19.1 of the Administrative Code.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:25 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-18 | Recreation and leisure activities and equipment.
(A) A residential facility shall have a
recreational program and make available recreational equipment and activities
sufficient to implement its recreational program. All recreational equipment
necessary for the implementation of the recreation program shall be maintained
in a safe and usable condition. (B) A residential facility shall make
available in each living unit within the facility, leisure-time equipment
appropriate to the age and developmental stage of the children housed in each
residential unit. (C) A residential facility shall have a
written plan for supervising organized or structured group activities. All off
site activities shall comply with rule 5101:2-9-02 of the Administrative
Code. (D) A residential facility shall permit
the children to swim only when monitored by a person who has completed
lifesaving or water safety training.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-19 | Personal belongings, hygiene, socialization, religious practice and education.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What is a residential facility to allow in terms of a child's personal belongings? A residential facility is to allow children in care to: (1) Acquire personal belongings. (2) Bring personal belongings with them. (3) Decorate bedrooms consistent with the limitations established by the residential facility that consider: (a) The developmental stage of the child. (b) The child's social, racial, cultural, religious, or ethnic background. (B) Can the facility supervise or restrict items brought by children? While children may have personal items, nothing in this rule is to be interpreted as preventing a residential facility from: (1) Supervising the use of a child's personal property. (2) Confiscating any items which: (a) Pose a clear health or safety risk. (b) Interfere with the rights or privileges of others. (c) Are illegal to possess as a matter of state law or local ordinance. (C) What if a child's belongings need to be searched? An agency is to ensure the child is present during a search of the child's personal belongings, unless there is a clear imminent health or safety risk. Searches are to be conducted only when there is reasonable suspicion of contraband or other safety concerns that could pose a risk to the child, other residents and staff in the facility. (D) What kind of clothing and footwear is to be provided by the residential facility? (1) A residential facility is to provide each child, in cooperation with the individual or agency holding custody of the child, with clothing and footwear which is clean, well-fitting, and seasonal. (2) Clothing provided by a residential facility is to be appropriate to the child's age and is to consider personal preferences. (3) Clothing provided to a child is to be considered to be a child's personal property. (E) Is the residential facility to provide hygiene products? A residential facility is to provide each child with adequate personal toiletry supplies. These supplies are to be appropriate to the child's age, developmental needs, and personal preferences, and are to be considered to be the child's personal property. (F) Is the residential facility to provide hygiene instruction? A residential facility is to provide instruction on good habits of personal care, hygiene, and grooming. This instruction must be tailored to each child's age, developmental level, and individual needs, with consideration for personal preferences and background. (G) What type of chores or work tasks can the residential facility assign a child? (1) A residential facility may assign a child daily tasks and work assignments on the grounds of or within the facility. Such assignments are to be of the type normally performed by a child and are to not be beyond the child's developmental ability to perform. (2) Daily tasks and work assignments made pursuant to paragraph (G)(1) of this rule are not to place the child in physical danger and are not to interfere with the child's studies, normal social development, or child care responsibilities of a teenage mother. (3) A residential facility is not to permit a child to be taken to the private residence of any staff member for the purpose of work, respite, or any form of "time away." All interactions between staff and children will occur within the bounds of the facility or in approved community settings consistent with the child's service plan and supervision requirements. (4) A residential facility is not to assign a child to perform tasks that are ordinarily compensated for when performed by staff. Under no circumstances will youth be required or expected to perform duties that substitute for paid staff responsibilities. If a child voluntarily performs such a task, the facility is to ensure the child receives appropriate monetary compensation. (H) How is education handled for children in care? A residential facility is to make arrangements with the person or agency placing a child for each school-age child to attend a school that complies with the minimum standards as prescribed by the department of education and workforce (DOEW) and is to ensure that the child attends school in accordance with the child care agreement. (I) Is a child permitted to attend extracurricular and cultural activities? In accordance with the child's service plan, a residential facility is to encourage a child to participate in community, school, recreational, and cultural heritage activities which are appropriate to the child's age and functioning level and is to, as is necessary and reasonable, arrange appropriate transportation for the child to and from such activities. (J) How are decisions made about a child's participation in extracurricular and social activities? In accordance with sections 5103.162 and 2151.315 of the Revised Code, child care staff are to use the reasonable and prudent parent standard when considering whether to authorize a child who resides in the residential facility to participate in extracurricular, enrichment, and social activities. Decisions should prioritize: (1) The child's safety. (2) The child's developmental needs. (3) The child's right to normalcy (such as participating in sleepovers, sports, clubs, etc) in ways that align with the child's peers. (K) What are the obligations of a residential care facility in relation to religious practices of a child? (1) A residential facility is to permit a child to practice the chosen religious faith of the child or his or her parent(s), guardian or legal custodian and is not to subject a child to any form of religious coercion. (2) A child is not to be baptized or submitted to any religious procedures without prior consent of the child, according to their age and functioning level, and prior approval of the child's parent, guardian or custodian. (L) Are life skills to be taught in the facility? A residential facility is to, as appropriate, teach a child tasks and skills essential for life in the community.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-20 | Food and nutrition.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) How many meals does a residential facility provide each day? A residential facility is to make available or make provision for each child to have available three nutritious meals per day scheduled at regular intervals. If more than four hours elapse between any two meals or if fourteen hours elapse between the evening meal and breakfast, a nutritious snack is to be served. (B) What is the standard to follow regarding food served to a child in a residential facility? The resident's daily allowance of food is to meet the most recent dietary guidelines for Americans published by the food and nutrition information center of the United States department of agriculture (USDA). The most current guidelines can be accessed at https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov. (C) Is there a standard for meat? All meats served by the facility subject to inspection are to be inspected and graded by the federal or state department of agriculture. (D) Is milk required in the daily diet? A minimum of three daily servings of pasteurized milk, vitamin D fortified, are to be provided or made available in recommended amounts according to each child's age and sex. (E) If a facility operates a farm or dairy, what rules apply? A residential facility is to document that all agricultural, livestock, or dairy operations maintained by the facility conform to all applicable regulations adopted by the department of agriculture and the department of health. (F) What are the requirements for menus in a residential facility? Each children's residential center (CRC) is to prepare menus at least one week in advance. Cycle menus, if used, are to be at least three weeks long. (G) How does a residential facility respond to a child's medical or religious dietary needs? A residential facility is to accommodate and not to interfere with documented medical dietary needs or restrictions or religious dietary restrictions of an individual child. (H) Are meals for staff different from meals for children in the residential facility? Meals provided by a residential facility for direct child care staff are to be the same as those provided for the children unless staff has a documented dietary restriction. (I) How is infant formula handled in a residential parenting or crisis care facility?. Formula for an infant prepared by or in a residential parenting facility or a children's crisis care facility is to be prepared in accordance with the instructions of the formula or by the techniques recommended by the attending physician which is to be on file at the facility. (J) How is infant formula or breast milk preparation equipment cleaned in a residential facility? Before preparing formula or breast milk for an infant, all equipment used in the preparation and storage of the formula or breast milk is to be thoroughly washed with hot water and detergent followed by a thorough rinsing in hot running water. (K) How should infant formula or breast milk be labeled when stored in a residential facility? Formula or breast milk for an infant to be stored at the facility for any period of time is to be labeled with the child's name and date of preparation (L) How long can infant formula or breast milk be stored after preparation in a residential facility? Formula or breast milk for an infant is to be refrigerated immediately after preparation and is not to be used more than twenty-four hours after preparation. The timeframe for use after preparation may be longer than twenty-four hours if directed by a physician or as documented in the instructions of the formula. The timeframe is not to be extended beyond the physician's recommendation or the instructions of the formula. (M) Can breast milk or formula be heated in a microwave? Formula nor breast milk for an infant is not to be heated in a microwave oven. (N) Are parenting youth permitted to breastfeed? Parenting youth are permitted to breastfeed, but the facility cannot require a youth to breastfeed.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-21 | Residential care, supervision and discipline.
Effective:
December 15, 2023
(A) Disciplinary procedures of a
residential facility shall be explained to all staff and each child according
to their age and functioning level. A copy of the disciplinary procedures shall
be made available to persons or agencies who desire to place children in the
facility. (B) The residential facility disciplinary
procedures shall be humane, instructive and shall be administered with
fairness, consistency and respect and regardless of the child's race, sex,
gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, religion or cultural heritage.
All cruel and unusual punishments/practices are prohibited including, but not
limited to: (1) Physical punishment
such as spanking, punching, paddling, shaking, biting, spitting, hair pulling,
pinching, pushing, physical hitting inflicted in any manner upon the body or
roughly handling a child. (2) Physically strenuous
work or exercises, when used as a means of punishment, consequence or
discipline. (3) Forcing a child to
maintain an uncomfortable position, or to continuously repeat physical
movements when used as a means of punishment, consequence or
discipline. (4) Group punishments for
the behavior of an individual. A group activity shall not be cancelled for the
entire group, prior to the activity, due to the behavior of one or more
individuals. (5) Verbal abuse,
including swearing, directed at a child or derogatory remarks about a
child's family, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability,
religion, or cultural background or threats of physical violence against the
child or removal of the child from the facility. (6) Denial of social or
recreational activities for more than five consecutive days without prior
written approval of the facility administrator or designee and a certified or
licensed practitioner of behavioral science. (7) The denial of social,
mental health or casework services, medical treatment, educational services or
access to their guardian ad litem or attorney, probation officer, court
appointed special advocate, placement worker or caseworker. (8) The deprivation of
meals or any required snack. (9) The use or denial of
any medication as a punishment or discipline. (10) The denial of
visitation or communication rights with a child's family as a means of
punishment or discipline. (11) The denial of
sleep. (12) The denial of
shelter, clothing, bedding, or restroom facilities. (13) The use of physical
restraint as a means of punishment or discipline. (14) Organized social
ostracism such as codes of silence. (15) The use of chemical
restraint. (16) The use of
mechanical restraint. (17) Isolation in a
locked or unlocked room used as punishment. (18) Separation of a
teenage mother and her child in a residential parenting facility as a means of
punishment. (19) The use of prone
restraints. Prone restraint is defined as a method of intervention where a
person's face and/or frontal part of his or her body is placed in a
downward position touching any survace for any time. Prone restraint includes
physical or mechanical restraint. (20) Time out exceeding
one minute for each year of the child's age, unless approval is granted by
a certified or licensed practitioner of behavioral science and documented in
the child's service plan. (21) Punishment for
actions over which the child has no control such as bedwetting, enuresis,
encopresis or incidents that occur in the course of toilet training
activities. (C) Discipline shall be administered only
by persons who are administrators or employees with direct care
responsibilities of the residential facility. Children shall not discipline
other children, except their own. All staff involved in the discipline of
children shall meet the requirements of rule 5101:2-9-03 of the Administrative
Code. (D) Agency employees, contract staff,
student interns and volunteers shall not engage in any act of omission or
commission which results in the death, injury, illness, abuse, neglect, or
exploitation of any child.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 2:38 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-22 | Isolation, seclusion and restraint.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) Under what circumstances can physical restraint and isolation be used in a residential facility? Physical restraint and isolation are only to be used in emergency circumstances when less restrictive interventions have been determined to be ineffective and in accordance with written approval of a certified or licensed health care professional and a certified or licensed practitioner of behavioral science. (B) What are the emergency situations that justify the use of physical restraint or isolation? (1) For protection of the child from imminent harm. (2) To protect another person from a child. (3) For self protection. (C) Who is authorized to use physical restraint or isolation? Physical restraint and isolation are only to be utilized by staff who have current American red cross, American heart association or equivalent first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, and who are current on their training in the acceptable methods of restraint. (D) Is approval needed to use restraint techniques? (1) Any restraint techniques used to restrain a child are to be previously approved and listed in the behavioral intervention policy of the residential facility. (2) Prone restraint is prohibited. Prone restraint is a method of intervention where a person's face and/or frontal part of his or her body is placed in a downward position touching any surface for any amount of time. Prone restraint includes physical or mechanical restraint. (E) When should physical restraint or isolation end? The physical restraint or isolation is to end when the child's behavior no longer constitutes an emergency. (F) What are the requirements for a residential facility to use isolation rooms? (1) A residential facility is to isolate residents only in accordance with the facility's written policy, which has received the prior approval of the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY). (2) Isolation is only to be used by a residential facility with an isolation room approved by DCY that meets the requirements of this rule. (G) How many children can be placed in an isolation room at one time? Only one child is to be placed in an isolation room at a time. (H) Are there time limits on how long a child can be isolated? (1) A child is not to be isolated longer than fifteen continuous minutes without written supervisory approval. (2) A child is not to be isolated for longer than one continuous hour and no longer than a total of two hours in any twenty-four hour period. (I) What reasons can isolation be used? A residential facility is to ensure that isolation is used exclusively for the behavior management of a child who is out of control at the time of isolation. (J) What are the environmental requirements for an isolation room? (1) Any room used for isolation is to be lighted, well-ventilated, and maintained at the same temperature as the rest of the facility. The room is to be at least fifty-six square feet in size, and is to have a ceiling height of at least seven feet, six inches and is to be free of any objects or materials which might be used to inflict self-injury. (2) Any room used for isolation is not to be used for any other purpose, at any other time. (K) How should staff communicate with a child during isolation? When a child is placed in isolation, staff are to inform the child of the reason for placing him or her in isolation. Before continuing a child's isolation, staff are to discuss with the child the need for continued isolation. Upon release from isolation, staff are again to discuss with the child the reason for the use of isolation. (L) What procedures must staff follow during isolation? (1) Staff members are to ensure that a child who is placed in isolation is not in possession of any object or material which might be used to inflict self-injury. (2) Staff is to be in auditory contact with an isolated child at all times and is to make visual observation of an isolated child every five minutes during the period of isolation. (3) Visual observations as outlined by this rule are to be documented in an isolation log. The isolation log is to contain as outlined in DCY 01386 "Restraint and Isolation Incident Report": (a) The name of the child. (b) The time of placement in isolation. (c) The reason for the placement in isolation and the discussion of the reason for isolation with the child. (d) The chronology of observations including the signature or initials of the staff who placed the child in isolation. (e) The written supervisory approval of a child isolated longer than fifteen continuous minutes. (f) The written approval of the administrator or designee for continued isolation of a child for any period of isolation longer than thirty minutes. (g) The time of removal from isolation. (M) Is there an age limit for a child placed in isolation? No child under the age of six is to be isolated.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-23 | Notification and documentation of critical incidents.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) When must a residential facility notify the placing individual or agency and the person or agency holding custody of a child? (1) A residential facility shall notify the individual or agency which placed the child and the person or agency holding custody, if different, within one hour if any of the following occur while the child is placed in the facility: (a) Death of the child or teenage mother. (b) Alleged child abuse or neglect by a staff member. (c) When a child's whereabouts are unknown and the child is believed to be at risk of harm or pose an imminent risk of harm to self or others. (d) Any other unusual incident that poses an urgent action to reduce harm to the child such as a medical or mental health incident resulting in emergent transportation to a hospital or in-patient facility. (2) A residential facility shall notify the individual or agency which placed the child and the person or agency holding custody, if different, within twenty-four hours if any of the following occur while the child is placed in the facility: (a) An incident when a youth's whereabouts are unknown for longer than the period of time specified in the child's treatment plan that does not result in imminent risk of harm to self or others. (b) Any serious injury or illness involving initial non-routine medical treatment. (c) Expulsion or suspension from school. (d) Any alleged delinquent or criminal activity of the child or teenage mother involving law enforcement. (e) Any situation in which the child or teenage mother is a victim of alleged delinquent or criminal activity. (f) Suicide ideation or self-mutilation attempts. (g) Any incident of alleged abuse or neglect by a non-staff member. (h) Any involvement with law enforcement resulting in a report. (i) Whenever a youth returns to the facility after any incident when their whereabouts were unknown pursuant to either paragraph (A)(1)(c) or (A)(2)(a) of this rule. (j) Any use of physical restraint or isolation pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-22 of the Administrative Code. (k) Any other unusual incident as defined in the agency's policies or by the agency. (B) What documentation is required for these incidents? (1) A residential facility is to complete a critical incident report (CIR) for each occurrence of any of the items listed in paragraph (A) of this rule and is to document that the report was provided no later than the next business day after the occurrence to the individual or agency which placed the child and person or agency holding custody, if different. (2) The residential facility is to complete all CIRs in the Ohio's comprehensive child welfare information system (CCWIS). (C) Who is required to report suspected child abuse or neglect in a residential facility? (1) Pursuant to section 2151.421 of the Revised Code, the following persons shall immediately report a situation listed in paragraph (C)(2) of this rule. This includes but is not limited to: (a) Administrator. (b) Employee. (c) Clinical contractor. (d) College intern. (e) Volunteer. (2) An individual listed in paragraph (C)(1) of this rule shall make a report when they know or suspect any of the following: (a) Physical abuse. (b) Mental abuse. (c) Sexual abuse. (d) Exploitation. (e) Neglect. (f) Human trafficking. (g) Threatened abuse or neglect. (3) A report shall be made when the offense is committed by any person, including another resident of the facility.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-24 | Child and family complaint policy and procedure.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What is provided to the child and family regarding complaints when a child is admitted? The residential facility is to have a complaint policy and procedure written in clear and simple language that is to be given and explained to the child and legally responsible adult including family, guardian or custodian at the time of the child's admission to the residential facility. Documentation that the child and family received the complaint policy and procedure is to be placed in the child's file. (B) Can a child or family member file a complaint without going through the staff member involved? The residential facility is to ensure that a child or family member is not required to transmit a complaint through the staff member who is the subject of the complaint. (C) What protections are in place to prevent retaliation for making a complaint? The residential facility is to ensure against retaliation by staff or by other children against the person making the complaint. (D) How are complaints handled once submitted? (1) A residential facility is to: (a) Establish a procedure to make every effort to ensure that any complaint is resolved within thirty days of the filing of the complaint. (b) Ensure unresolved complaints are reviewed by the administrator of the facility or designee within thirty days of the filing of the complaint. (2) For any complaint not resolved within thirty days, a written explanation of the reason why the complaint has not been resolved within thirty days is to be placed in the child's record maintained pursuant to rule 5180:2-5-10 of the Administrative Code. (3) A written report of each complaint and the resolution is to be compiled, and a copy placed in the child's record maintained pursuant to rule 5180:2-5-10 of the Administrative Code.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-25 | Residential parenting facility and crisis care facility location and programmatic requirements.
Effective:
January 1, 2024
(A) A residential parenting facility or crisis care facility
shall not be integrated as a part of another children's residential center
(CRC) or group home. A residential parenting facility or crisis care facility
shall be a self-contained facility. The mixing of the differing populations is
prohibited. (B) Each residential parenting facility shall assure the
availability of a program for each minor mother in residence which teaches
parenting skills either individually or in a group setting. The facility's
plan for the provision of such a program shall be presented for approval to
ODJFS prior to initial certification. (C) A minor mother residing in a residential parenting facility
shall meet at least one of the following requirements: (1) Enrolled in school on
a full-time basis during the school year or working towards a general
educational development (GED) certificate. (2) Employed in a
full-time job or documentation of actively seeking employment, if she has
completed their education plan, which may include receipt of a GED
certificate. (3) Enrolled in school on
a part-time basis or working towards a GED certificate and employed in a
part-time job or documentation of actively seeking employment, during the
school year. (D) Any school aged child residing in a
residential parenting facility or crisis care facility shall be enrolled in
school during the school year. (E) If a minor mother or expectant minor
mother, who is a current resident of the residential parenting facility,
reaches eighteen years of age, the facility may allow the resident to remain at
the facility until age nineteen.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-26 | Living rooms, dining areas and lounges.
(A) Each living unit of a children's
residential center (CRC) shall have at least sixty square feet of activity
space per child residing in the living unit, exclusive of bedrooms, halls,
bathrooms, kitchens, and storage areas. (B) Activity space shall include areas
equipped with sofas, armchairs, tables, and recreational
equipment. (C) For the purposes of this requirement,
dining areas may be included in square footage requirements if used for
activity space. (D) A residential facility shall have at
least one area specifically used for dining within the facility. (1) If a CRC maintains a dining area in each living unit,
the dining area table and seating places will be of sufficient size and number
so that all children may eat together comfortably at one time. (2) If a CRC maintains one or more dining areas that are
separate and apart from the living units, all dining area tables and seating
places will be of sufficient size and number so that at least fifty per cent of
all children may eat together comfortably at one time. (3) If a group home maintains a dining area, the dining
area tables and seating places will be of sufficient size and number so that
all children may eat together comforably at one time. (E) During meal hours, the dining area
portion of each residential facility shall be used only for the purpose of
eating. (F) Each dining area within a residential
facility shall be equipped with tables and chairs appropriate to the age,
physical condition, and developmental stage of the children who will eat in the
area.
Last updated July 21, 2026 at 1:06 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-28 | Bedrooms.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What are the space requirements for bedrooms in a children's residential center (CRC)? All bedrooms contained within a CRC are to have seventy-four square feet for the initial occupant and an additional fifty square feet for each additional occupant, and a ceiling height of at least seven feet, six inches. (1) If a residential facility certified prior to the effective date of this rule has an approved variance for the square footage requirement, the facility may still remain in operation as long as the agency has a copy of the approved variance on file for review by the department of children and youth (DCY). (2) All facilities certified after the effective date of this rule are to adhere to the square footage requirements of this paragraph. (B) How are bedrooms to be assigned in a CRC or group home? Bedrooms in a CRC or group home are to be used to sleep children of the same sex. (C) What is the maximum number of children allowed per bedroom? No bedroom in a residential facility, constructed or put into use after January 1, 1991, can be used to sleep more than four children. (D) Can non-ambulatory children sleep on upper floors? A residential facility is not to permit non-ambulatory children to sleep above the entry level of a building, unless the facility is specifically approved for such children by the state fire marshal or a local certified fire safety inspector. (E) What are the window requirements for bedrooms? Each bedroom in a residential facility is to have at least one outside wall window. The window is to be equipped with a means for providing privacy. The window is also to be screened and capable of opening and closing, unless the room is provided with a ventilation system which provides a regular change of fresh air such as a central air conditioning system. (F) Do live-in child care staff need separate sleeping spaces? Residential facilities are to provide separate sleeping space for live-in child care staff. (G) Can bedrooms be accessed through another bedroom or bathroom? Bedrooms in a residential facility must not require a child to pass through another bedroom or bathroom, and no other person should need to pass through a child's bedroom to access another room. (1) If a residential facility certified prior to December 1, 2010, has an approved variance for the pass through requirement, the facility may still remain in operation as long as the agency has a copy of the approved variance on file for review by DCY. (2) All facilities certified after December 1, 2010, are to adhere to the pass through requirements of this paragraph. (H) Are there other requirements for bedrooms? All bedrooms in a residential facility are to have a standard door that is capable of opening and closing. (I) What are the requirements for beds in a residential facility? Each bedroom in a residential facility is to have one bed for each child assigned to the bedroom. Beds are not to be less than thirty inches wide and not less than five feet in length and appropriate to the child's size. Each bed is to have a clean and comfortable mattress. A child's bed should not be used by another child when the child is temporarily away from the facility. (1) If a residential facility certified prior to December 1, 2010, has an approved variance for any requirement of this paragraph, the facility may still remain in operation as long as the agency has a copy of the approved variance on file for review by DCY. (2) All facilities certified after December 1, 2010, are to adhere to the requirements of this paragraph. (J) How often should bedding be changed and laundered? (1) Sheets and pillowcases are to be changed and laundered at least weekly or more frequently if needed. Waterproof mattress coverings are to be provided to a child as needed. (2) Each child in a residential facility is to be provided with clean sheets, pillowcases, a pillow, and blankets. (K) What are the bunk bed safety requirements? (1) Bunk beds in residential facilities should provide a safe and secure sleeping environment. To ensure safety, upper bunks need to have protective safety rails for children under ten or for those who may require extra support due to physical, mental, or emotional needs. (2) Children under six years of age are to sleep on lower bunks. (3) Bunk beds can be no higher than two tiers. (4) Bunk beds can not be used in a residential parenting facility. (L) Are children to be provided with storage space and an area for hanging clothes? (1) Each child is to have storage for clothing and personal items in their bedroom and a space in their bedroom for hanging clothes. (2) Each teenage mother in a residential parenting facility is to be provided with storage space and a space in their bedroom for hanging clothes for herself, and for her child's clothing, in her bedroom. (M) What happens if required bedroom items are removed for safety? If a residential facility removes any necessary items from a child's bedroom, the facility is to document the reason for the removal and is to have a statement showing the removal of the items was necessary for the safety and well-being of the child signed by one of the following: (1) A licensed social worker. (2) A licensed independent social worker. (3) A licensed professional counselor. (4) A licensed professional clinical counselor. (5) A civil service employee engaging in social work or professional counseling for a residential facility operated by a public children services agency (PCSA) or a local public entity (LPE) as described in rule 5180:2-5-02 of the Administrative Code. If a civil service employee is not a licensed social worker or licensed counselor, the employee is not to sign statements for any other facility except a residential facility operated by the PCSA they are employed with. (N) Can teenage mothers and their children share a bedroom with others? (1) In a residential parenting facility, no teenage mother and her child is to share a bedroom with another teenage mother and her child. (2) In a residential parenting facility, each teenage mother is to have a bed of her own and is not permitted to sleep with her child in the same bed. (O) What are the crib safety requirements? Each infant, toddler or preschool age child is to have an age appropriate bed. A bassinet is to be used only for infants under three months of age or less than fifteen pounds in weight. An infant or toddler under thirty-five inches in height is to be provided with a full sized crib which meets the following requirements: (1) Cribs with a documented manufacture date after June 28, 2011, have to meet the new federal standards to be sold. The date of manufacture shall be attached to the crib. (2) Any crib manufactured before June 28, 2011, shall have a certificate of compliance (COC) on file. The facility may have to contact the manufacturer of the crib to receive a COC if they do not request one from the retailer when they purchase the crib. (3) Each crib shall be of sturdy construction and have: (a) Each crib is to have a firm mattress which is at least one and one-half inches thick and covered with a waterproof material. The mattress is to fit snugly enough in the frame so that there is no more than a one and one-half inch gap between the mattress and the sides of the crib. (b) The facility is responsible for monitoring for recall and safety information as issued by the consumer product safety commission (CPSC).
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-29 | Bathrooms.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What are the requirements for bathrooms in a residential facility? (1) A residential facility is to have a bathroom for every eight children of the same sex that can be placed in the facility. (2) A residential facility may have congregate bathrooms that have more than one sink, toilet, and shower. (3) Each bathroom must have: (a) Each toilet capable of flushing. (b) Each sink with both hot and cold running water. (c) Each shower with both hot and cold running water. (B) Can a private, single bathroom be used to meet the bathroom requirement for a residential facility? If a residential facility has a private, single bathroom containing one sink, one flushing toilet, and one bath or shower, the bathroom may be used to meet the ratio requirement of one bathroom for every eight children, or fraction thereof. (C) Are infants and toddlers counted in the bathroom ratio? Children at a crisis care facility who are still using diapers and under the age of three are not to be counted in the bathroom ratio requirements of paragraphs (A) and (B) of this rule. (D) What is the standard for bathroom access in a residential facility? (1) A children's residential center (CRC) is to have at least one bathroom with a toilet and sink on the floor with the sleeping rooms. (2) Bathrooms in a residential facility are to be situated so as to allow direct access to them without the necessity of passing through a bedroom, except when a bedroom has an attached bathroom used only for the children who reside in that bedroom. (E) What hygiene items and equipment must be available in bathrooms? Each bathroom in a residential facility is to have toilet paper, towels or air dryers, soap, and wastebaskets available for use. (F) Do bathtubs and showers need safety features? Bathtubs and showers in a residential facility are to have nonskid surfaces. (G) What privacy requirements apply to showers and toilets? Except for bathtubs exclusively used to bathe children age zero to three in a crisis care facility, all bathtubs and showers in a residential facility are to have enclosures or screens which afford individual privacy. When more than one toilet is located in the same bathroom, each toilet is to be partitioned and include a door capable of remaining closed.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-30 | Kitchens and kitchen supplies.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) Does a children's residential center need a food service license to prepare meals? Each children's residential center owned or operated by a private child placing agency (PCPA) or private noncustodial agency (PNA) is to secure a food service license for each kitchen in which meals are prepared in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 3717. of the Revised Code and Chapter 3701-21 of the Administrative Code pertaining to food service operation as administered and enforced by the local department of health. (B) What must be available in each kitchen within a residential facility? (1) Permanent or disposable utensils. (2) Appliances for storage and preparation of meals served in the facility. (C) What items are to be provided at food serving areas in residential facilities? Each food serving location within a residential facility is to provide the following permanent or disposable items in sufficient quantity to serve the population assigned to eat at that location: (1) Serving dishes. (2) Cups or glasses. (3) Silverware. (D) How should a kitchen be equipped if a residential living unit does not have a full kitchen? In instances where a residential living unit does not include a full kitchen, the unit shall be furnished with appropriate equipment to allow for the preparation of light snacks.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-31 | Laundry facilities.
(A) Each residential facility shall have
operable laundry facilities at the facility, or contract with a vendor of
laundry services. A public laundromat may be used; (1) If the residential laundry facilities become
temporarily inoperable. (2) As a life skills training for youth, as applicable for
age and developmental level, at no cost to the residents. (B) If a residential facility furnishes
laundry facilities for use by children or teenage mothers within the facility,
it shall provide necessary laundry supplies and shall locate these facilities
in an area that: (1) May be readily
supervised by an adult. (2) Is equipped with
washers and dryers that do not require payment to operate.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-32 | Transportation.
Effective:
August 13, 2026
(A) What transportation responsibilities does a residential facility have? A residential facility is to ensure that all necessary vehicles used to transport children are made available for implementing each child's service plan. (B) What are the requirements for vehicles owned, rented, or leased by a residential facility? (1) Be annually inspected and approved by the Ohio state highway patrol and continually maintained in a safe operating condition. (2) Have written maintenance records maintained by each facility on all vehicles which are used for transporting children. (3) Contain first aid supplies in each vehicle, when the vehicle is used to transport children. (4) Be maintained in a safe condition and in compliance with all motor vehicle laws. (5) Be covered by liability insurance in accordance with current state laws. (C) What are the requirements for privately owned, rented, or leased vehicles used by a residential facility? (1) Be annually inspected and approved by the Ohio state highway patrol and continually maintained in a safe operating condition. (2) The residential facility is to keep current documentation of automobile insurance for all privately owned vehicles used to transport children of the facility. (3) Contain first aid supplies in each privately owned vehicle when the vehicle is used to transport children of the facility. (4) Be maintained in a safe condition and in compliance with all motor vehicle laws and are to be covered by liability insurance in accordance with current state laws. (D) What are the driver requirements for transporting children? Each residential facility is to ensure that any employee is to have a valid driver's license when transporting children in either a privately owned vehicle or a vehicle owned by the facility. (E) What supervision is needed for transporting children? Each residential facility is to ensure that supervision appropriate to the number and ages of children being transported is available in any vehicle used by the facility to transport children. (F) What are the seat belt and child restraint requirements? In a vehicle, the driver and all passengers are to use the passenger safety belts and be properly restrained in accordance with sections 4511.81 and 4513.263 of the Revised Code while the vehicle is in motion. (G) What are the child restraint requirements for transporting children in residential facilities? (1) Children under four years old or under forty pounds must be restrained in a child restraint seat secured by a safety belt or the lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) system. The seat must not be placed in the front seat of a vehicle that has a back seat. (2) Infants under one year old or under twenty pounds must be restrained in a rear-facing position and, whenever possible, not placed in the front seat of a vehicle equipped with passenger airbags. (3) Children at least one year old and between twenty to forty pounds may be restrained in a rear-facing position. (4) Children under eight years old and under four feet nine inches must be properly restrained in a booster seat, placed in the back seat of a vehicle. (5) Children aged eight to fifteen years old must be restrained in either: (a) A belt-positioning booster seat in a forward-facing position; or (b) A seat belt that includes both a lap and shoulder belt, if available. (6) Children age twelve and under, when riding in a vehicle with a back seat, should not ride in the front seat, whenever possible. (7) Safety and recall information from the consumer product safety commission (CPSC) related to child safety seats or booster seats must be reviewed and implemented by the residential facility. (H) What if there is a medical exception for child restraints? Paragraph (G) of this rule does not apply if the facility has a signed affidavit by a licensed Ohio physician or an Ohio licensed chiropractor stating that the child has a physical disability that makes use of standard restraint systems impossible or impractical. In such cases, the child must be safely and appropriately restrained according to the medical recommendation noted in the affidavit.
Last updated August 13, 2026 at 8:26 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-34 | Building approval.
Effective:
January 1, 2026
(A) When is a residential facility to
secure a building approval and occupancy permit? A residential facility is to secure a building
approval and occupancy permit pursuant to section 3781.10 of the Revised
Code: (1) Prior to
initial certification. (2) At the time of
any major modification or alteration of any existing structure, unless the
structure will no longer be in use. (3) As required by
the Ohio department of commerce (DOC) or from a county or municipal building
department certified by the DOC to inspect and approve the building code use
group applicable to the residential facility . (B) Who can issue the building approval
and occupancy permit for a residential facility? Building approvals and occupancy permits are to
be secured from either: (1) The Ohio department of commerce. (2) A county or municipal building department certified by
the DOC to inspect and approve the building code use group applicable to the
residential facility. (C) What are the compliance requirements
for residential facilities regarding building codes? Each residential facility is to maintain
compliance with all local and state building codes and ordinances
including: (1) The residential
facility is to comply with any stipulations or limitations noted on the
certificate of occupancy. (2) Any
modifications that would otherwise need a plan approval as outlined by the
rules of the Ohio board of building standards. (D) What zoning requirements must a
residential facility adhere to? Pursuant to section 5103.05 of the Revised Code,
the residential facility is to maintain all applicable local planning and
zoning requirements.
Last updated January 5, 2026 at 9:02 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-35 | Additional programmatic requirements regarding behavior management.
(A) An agency certified to operate a
residential facility shall establish a system where instances of behavior that
are a danger to a child or to others shall be brought to the attention of
appropriately trained behavior management staff. (B) An agency certified to operate a
residential facility which uses isolation and/or physical restraint as a
behavior management tool shall establish an ongoing system for collecting and
reviewing monthly aggregate data that reflects the use of restrictive treatment
elements, including but not limited to: (1) The number of applications of isolation and/or physical
restraint. (2) The youth's name and age. (3) The names of staff members who participated in each
instance of isolation or restraint. (4) The range and average length of isolation and/or
physical restraint. (5) The injuries, in additon to the critical incident
report. (C) When there is an unusually high incidence of the use of
isolation and/or physical restraint, the administrator or designee is to review
the agency's policies on behavior intervention, physical restraint, and
isolation to determine how such incidents can be reduced.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-36 | Additional requirements for children's crisis care facilities.
Effective:
January 1, 2023
(A) As used in Chapters 5101:2-5 and
5101:2-9 of the Administrative Code, a "children's crisis care
facility" means a facility that has as its primary purpose the provision
of residential and other care to the children described in paragraph (A)(1) or
(A)(2) of this rule: (1) One or more pre-teens
voluntarily placed in the facility by the pre-teen's parent or other
caretaker who is facing a crisis that causes the parent or other caretaker to
seek temporary care for the pre-teen and referral for support
services; (2) One or more pre-teens
placed in the facility by a public children services agency (PCSA) or private
child placing agency (PCPA) that has legal custody or permanent custody of the
pre-teen and determines that an emergency situation exists necessitating the
pre-teen's placement in the facility rather than an institution certified
under section 5103.03 of the Revised Code or elsewhere. (3) "Children's
crisis care facility" does not include either of the
following: (a) Any organization, society, association, school, agency, child
guidance center, detention or rehabilitation facility, residential infant care
center, or children's clinic licensed, regulated, approved, operated under
the direction of, or otherwise certified by the department of education, a
local board of education, the department of youth services, the department of
mental health and addiction services, or the department of developmental
disabilities; (b) Any individual who provides care for only a single-family
group, placed there by their parents or other relative having
custody. (B) "Pre-teen" means an
individual under thirteen years of age. (C) No certified children's crisis care facility shall do
any of the following: (1) Provide residential
care to a pre-teen for more than one hundred twenty days in a calendar
year; (2) Subject to paragraph
(C)(3) of this rule and except as provided in paragraph (D) of this rule,
provide residential care to a pre-teen for more than ninety consecutive days,
which includes transfer of a pre-teen in a different location of the same
agency; (3) Provide residential
care to a pre-teen for more than fourteen consecutive days if a PCSA or PCPA
placed the pre-teen in the facility; (4) Fail to comply with
section 2151.86 of the Revised Code. (D) The director of job and family services may suspend or
revoke a children's crisis care facility's certificate pursuant to
Chapter 119. of the Revised Code and in accordance with rule 5101:2-5-07 of the
Administrative Code if the facility ceases to meet any provision of this rule
or the facility's operator ceases to comply with any of the rules
governing the certification of children's crisis care facilities. A PCSA,
PCPA or PNA operating a children's crisis care facility shall comply with
all the requirements of Chapter 5101:2-5 of the Administrative Code as
applicable to the type of the agency, depending on whether the agency is a
PCSA, a PCPA, or a PNA. An agency operating a children's crisis care
facility shall comply with all applicable requirements of the rules in Chapter
5101:2-9 of the Administrative Code for residential facilities, depending on
whether the facility is a group home or a children's residential center,
including those rules specified for a residential parenting facility. If there
is a conflict between a requirement of any provision in this rule or any
provision of Chapter 5101:2-5 of the Administrative Code or Chapter 5101:2-9 of
the Administrative Code, the provisions of this rule shall take
precedence. (E) An agency operating a children's crisis care
facility shall reasonably ensure that child care staff persons are assigned to
care for the same group of children each day and shall adhere to the following
child care staff to children ratios: (1) For children under
the age of six years, including the children of child care staff, there shall
be at least one child care staff person on duty during awake hours for every
five children or fraction thereof. (2) For children over the
age of six years, including children of child care staff, there shall be at
least one child care staff person on duty during awake hours for every six
children or fraction thereof. (3) For children ages
zero to twelve, including the children of child care staff, there shall be at
least one awake child care staff person on duty during sleeping hours for every
eight children or fraction thereof. (4) When a group of
children includes children from more than one of the age groups listed in
paragraph (E)(1), (E)(2) or (E)(3) of this rule, the staff to child ratio shall
be determined according to the age of the youngest child within any group of
children. (5) There shall be at least two staff
members on duty at all times when children are present in a crisis care
facility. (6) In case of an
emergency, the children's crisis care facility may include administrative
staff, interns and volunteers toward the required staff ratio for a period of
no more than three hours if the administrative staff, interns, or volunteers
meet the following requirements: (a) Completed training in the mission of the
children's crisis care facility. (b) Completed training pursuant to rule 5101:2-9-03 of the
Administrative Code. (c) Are supervised by facility staff. (d) Have completed a background check pursuant to rule
5101:2-5-09.1 of the Administrative Code. (F) An agency may use contracted transportation providers
on whom a background check and driving record check has been conducted and is
on file with the contracted company or agency, if such use is necessary for the
facility to maintain the required child care staff to child ratio, while
children are being transported. (G) In place of a service plan and a case plan, an
engagement plan is to be developed and completed no later than five business
days for any child placed for more than five business days. A children's
crisis care facility is to develop an engagement plan with the individual or
agency that placed the child and provide a copy at that time. The engagement
plan is to address at a minimum: (1) Steps that will be
taken to resolve the issues that necessitated the placement. (2) Obligations and
expectations of the individual or agency that placed the child while their
child is placed at the facility. (3) Identification of any
special care needs of the child that will need to be addressed while in
placement. (4) Projected timeline
for discharge. (5) Develop a visitation plan for the
pre-teen's parent or caretaker, which may include: (a) On-site visitation, which will not include overnight
visits. (b) Off-site, overnight visitation with parent or caretaker
and other approved relatives. (H) If a certified crisis care agency has multiple
facilities, a preteen may be transferred between facilities one time during
their stay. A transfer summary is to be completed and is to
include: (1) Reason for
transfer. (2) Originating location and location of
transfer. (3) Parent or caretaker
contact information. (4) Upcoming
appointments. (5) Dietary restrictions. (6) Medical services provided and
medications. (7) School. (8) Adjustment summary. (9) Projected discharge and discharge
caregiver. (I) Comprehensive health care for a child admitted to a
children's crisis care facility shall be in accordance with rules
5101:2-42-66.1 and 5101:2-42-66.2 of the Administrative Code. If there is a
conflict between a requirement of any provision in this rule or any provision
of rule 5101:2-42-66.1 or rule 5101:2-42-66.2 of the Administrative Code, the
provisions of this rule shall take precedence. (J) An agency is to employ a licensed social worker, a
licensed independent social worker, a licensed professional counselor or a
licensed professional clinical counselor. (K) Upon admission to an agency, there is to be a dedicated
and private enclosed space for completing admission paperwork and medical
forms. (L) If pediatric medical services are provided at the
facility, the following is to be provided: (1) Medical service is to
be provided by a qualified licensed and insured medical
professional. (2) Ensure all staff,
volunteers and interns comply with the privacy requirements of the Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. (3) An examining room which
contains: (a) A sink or tub. (b) Medical exam table, (c) Pediatric medical equipment. (d) Medical record system. (M) Upon discharge, if a pre-teen is admitted by the parent
or caretaker and the pre-teen requires on-going medical care following
discharge from the facility, a medical professional or licensed social worker
is to ensure the parent or caretaker is competent to provide the on-going care.
If the medical professional or licensed social worker determines the parent or
caretaker is not able to provide the on-going care, a referral to the PCSA will
be completed. (N) For the purpose of the management and prevention of
communicable diseases, a children's crisis care facility shall adhere to
the following procedures: (1) A child with any of
the following signs or symptoms of illness shall be immediately isolated from
other children. The child, while isolated shall be carefully watched for
symptoms listed in paragraph (N)(2) of this rule. (a) Unusual spots or rashes; (b) Sore throat or difficulty in swallowing; (c) Elevated temperature of one hundred degrees or
above; (d) Vomiting; (e) Evidence of lice, scabies or other parasitic
infection. (2) A child with any of
the following signs or symptoms of illness is to be immediately isolated and
medically assessed by a licensed physician or registered nurse. (a) Diarrhea (more than one abnormally loose stool within a
twenty-four hour period); (b) Severe coughing, causing the child to become red or blue in
the face or to make a whooping sound; (c) Difficult or rapid breathing; (d) Yellowish skin or eyes; (e) Vomiting more than one time or in combination with any other
sign or symptom of illness; (f) Temperature of one hundred degrees Fahrenheit taken by the
auxiliary method when in combination with any other sign of
illness; (g) Untreated infected skin patches, unusual spots or
rashes; (h) Unusually dark urine and/or grey or white stool; (i) Stiff neck with elevated temperature. (j) Redness of the eye or eyelid, with eye discharge,
matted eyelashes, burning, itching or eye pain. (3) A child isolated due
to suspected communicable disease shall be: (a) Cared for in a room or portion of a room not being used for
other types of child care, within sight and hearing at all times by the child
care staff. (b) Checked on every fifteen minutes and a notation made on an
isolation log regarding the observation made. (c) Made comfortable and provided with a bed. All linens and
blankets used by the ill child shall be laundered before being used by another
child. After use, the bed shall be disinfected with an appropriate germicidal
agent, or, if soiled with blood, feces, vomit or other body fluids, the bed
shall be cleaned with soap and water and then disinfected with an appropriate
germicidal agent. (d) Observed carefully for worsening condition. If the condition
has worsened, a physician shall be contacted. (4) The universal blood
and body fluid precautions according to the United States department of health
and human services' centers for disease control and prevention
(CDC). (5) A procedure for
immediate notification of the person or agency holding custody of a child when
the child is exhibiting signs or symptoms of illness or has been exposed to a
communicable disease. (6) The children's
crisis care facility's procedures regarding the care of a mildly ill
child. A "mildly ill child" is defined as one of the
following: (a) A child who is experiencing minor common cold symptoms, but
who is not exhibiting any of the symptoms specified in paragraph (N)(1) or
(N)(2) of this rule, or (b) A child who does not feel well enough to participate in
activities, but who is not exhibiting any of the symptoms specified in
paragraph (N)(1) or (N)(2) of this rule. (O) The children's crisis care facility shall keep the
person who placed a child informed of health care provided to the child while
residing in the facility on a weekly basis and at discharge. (P) The children's crisis care facility is to adhere
to the following handwashing procedures: (1) All staff and
volunteers shall wash their hands with soap and running water upon entering and
when leaving the children's crisis care facility, after each diaper
change, after assisting a child with toileting, after cleaning, after
toileting, before preparing or eating food, before feeding any child, before
and after administering medication, and after handling animals. (2) Handwashing
facilities shall be available within the area where children receive diaper or
bathroom care. (3) A handwashing
facility is defined as a permanent-type fixture with running
water. (4) Children are to wash
hands after toileting. (5) Children shall wash hands before and
after eating. (6) Children are to wash hands after
going outside to a play area. (7) Children are to wash
hands after handling animals. (8) Disposable towels shall be available
at the handwashing site at all times and shall be used to dry hands and turn
off the water after handwashing. (Q) In addition to the diaper care procedures specified in
rule 5101:2-9-05 of the Administrative Code, the following procedures shall be
followed: (1) No child's
diaper shall be changed in the child's bed or crib; (2) Each diaper changing
area shall be disinfected after each diaper change with an appropriate
germicidal agent. If the diaper changing area is soiled after the diaper
change, it shall be cleaned with soap and water and then disinfected with an
appropriate germicidal and virus killing agent. (3) Disposable separation
materials at a central diaper changing station are recommended for diaper
changing, and if used, shall be used once and discarded. If washcloths or other
washable materials are used, they shall be used once and stored in an
appropriate germicidal and virus killing solution until laundered. (R) Each child admitted to a children's crisis care
facility shall be provided with an opportunity to safely and comfortably sit,
crawl, toddle, or walk and play according to the child's stage of
development, under supervision and in a designated space apart from sleeping
quarters each day in order to enhance development. (1) Children of both
genders and under twenty-four months in age who are not siblings may share the
same bedroom. (2) No children over
twenty-four months of age and of different genders may share the same bedroom
unless they are from the same sibling group. (3) Siblings of differing
genders are, at the discretion of the agency, allowed to share the same
bedroom. (4) All sleeping children
shall be observed at least once per hour by agency staff. (S) Each infant in care in a children's crisis care
facility shall be removed from his/her crib for all feedings and removed from
the crib at other intervals during each day for individual attention. For the
purpose of feeding, all infants without the ability to sit up shall either be
placed in an infant seat, or held by a child care worker, other adult over
twenty-one years of age, or the child's parent, as appropriate to the
child's age. No child shall be placed in a crib or bassinet for feeding
and no bottle shall be propped to feed an infant. Infants with the ability to
sit up may be placed in a high chair for feeding. (T) A video monitor may be used to observe napping or
sleeping children under the age of two. The video monitor is to: (1) Be positioned out of
reach of the child. (2) Have only one child
in an individual crib in its view. (3) Monitor and not have
recording capabilities. (U) Infant food shall be prepared and served in a manner
appropriate to the developmental needs of each child according to the
child's stage of development and in sufficient quantities to promote
healthy growth and development. (V) There shall be at least one bathroom designated for use
by children in a children's crisis care facility and it shall have at
least one wash basin and one toilet accessible for small sized
children. (W) Each dining area in a children's crisis care
facility shall be equipped with tables, chairs and eating utensils appropriate
to the age, physical condition, and developmental stage of the children who
will eat in the area. (X) A children's crisis care facility shall plan and
provide, for each child twelve months and older, an opportunity for an on-site
safely accessible, supervised and developmentally appropriate outdoor activity
each day in suitable weather unless the child's medical condition does not
allow the child to participate. (1) All children shall be
provided with appropriate outerwear and/or sunscreen as applicable to the
weather conditions. (2) The supervision of
children by staff shall adhere to the required child/staff ratios specified in
paragraph (E) of this rule when the children are using the outdoor play area
including going to and coming from the play area. No child shall be left
unsupervised in the outdoor play area. (3) When a group of
children is outdoors, the child care staff person(s) responsible for the group
shall be able to summon another adult without leaving the group alone or
unsupervised. (4) The play area shall
be supervised so that all children are within the sight and hearing of the
supervising child care staff person(s) at all times. (5) The surface of the
outdoor play area shall be drained well enough so that standing water does not
prohibit the use of the play area on a daily basis. (6) The play area shall
be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, broken glass, potholes,
garbage, flammable materials, and other debris. (7) The play area shall
be well defined by a fence, hedge, natural or other barrier to protect the area
from traffic, animals, or other hazards. (8) The outdoor play area
shall provide at least sixty square feet of usable space per child using the
play area at any one time, regardless of the number of children the
children's crisis care facility is certified to serve. (Y) A children's crisis care facility shall be
compliant with section 5103.132 of the Revised Code.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-37 | Information to be provided by residential facilities.
Effective:
January 1, 2026
(A) What is a new residential facility to do after receiving its certificate? A new residential facility is to provide the following information to all county, municipal, or township law enforcement agencies, emergency management agencies and fire departments with jurisdiction over the facility within ten days after obtaining certification: (1) A written notice with the facility's address, the type of residential facility, and the facility's contact information. (2) Copies of the facility's: (a) Emergency and disaster procedures pursuant to rule 5180:2-5-13.1 of the Administrative Code. (b) Medical emergency plan pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-09 of the Administrative Code. (c) Community engagement plan pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-38 of the Administrative Code. (B) What types of facilities are to follow this rule? All certified residential facilities, including: (1) Group homes. (2) Children's crisis care facilities. (3) Children's residential centers. (4) Residential infant crisis care facilities. (5) Residential parenting facilities. (6) Scholar residential centers. (7) Therapeutic wilderness camps. (C) What documents are to be updated and resubmitted, and what steps should be taken if there are changes at the facility after the initial notice is sent? A residential facility is to provide to all county, municipal, or township law enforcement agencies, emergency management agencies and fire departments with jurisdiction over the facility updated copies of the following: (1) A copy of the facility's procedures for emergencies and disasters pursuant to rule 5108:2-5-13.1 of the Administrative Code. (2) A copy of the facility's medical emergency plan pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-09 of the Administrative Code. (3) A copy of the facility's community engagement plan pursuant to rule 5180:2-9-38 of the Administrative Code. (D) Is there a timeline to follow for submitting changes and updates? (1) Changes are to be submitted within ten days. (2) Updates are to be submitted within ten days prior to the second year after the original date of submission as described in paragraph (A) of this rule, and within ten days every second year thereafter.
Last updated January 5, 2026 at 9:02 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-38 | Community engagement plan for residential facilities.
Effective:
January 1, 2026
(A) What is a community engagement plan and who needs one? Every residential facility in Ohio is to have a written community engagement plan. This plan outlines how the facility will communicate with local residents and respond to concerns or incidents that may arise. (B) What kind of information is to be included in a residential facility's community engagement plan? (1) A process for community members to contact the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) with concerns or complaints. (2) Posting of the DCY 00053 "It Takes a Village" flyer in a visible location at the facility. (3) A phone number and, if available, an email address for the public to contact the facility directly. (4) Clear steps for how the facility will respond to community concerns, including how quickly they will respond. (C) How can community members access contact information for the facility or DCY? (1) Provided to anyone who requests it. (2) Posted on the facility's website, if accessible. (D) What happens if the facility updates its community engagement plan? The facility s to notify stakeholders of any changes within ten days. Stakeholders include: (1) County, municipal, or township law enforcement agencies. (2) Emergency management agencies. (3) Fire departments with jurisdiction over the facility. (4) Local government officials responsible for community oversight. (E) What are the community engagement plan training requirements for a residential facility? (1) A residential facility is to ensure staff are trained on the implementation of the community engagement plan and procedures for responding to incidents involving a child at the facility and neighbors or law enforcement. (2) If the training is conducted by an external provider, the training is to include a transfer of learning component. (3) The transfer of learning component may include a pretest, a posttest, or a discussion following the training.
Last updated January 5, 2026 at 9:02 AM
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Rule 5180:2-9-40 | Private, nonprofit therapeutic wilderness camps.
Effective:
October 1, 2021
(A) As used in this rule: (1) "Base camp"
means the permanent or semi-permanent structure at which the basic needs for
camp operation, such as resident housing, water supply and septic systems,
permanent toilet and cooking facilities, are provided. (2) "Mobile camp" means a
portion of the base campsite premises or another site at which the basic needs
for camp operation, such as water supply systems, permanent toilet and cooking
facilities or other permanent structures, are not provided and in which a child
stays no longer than twenty-one days before returning to the base
camp. (B) A private noncustodial agency (PNA)
operating as a private, nonprofit therapeutic wilderness camp (PNTWC) shall
comply with all applicable rules of Chapters 5101:2-5 and 5101:2-9 of the
Administrative Code. If there is a conflict between a requirement of any
provision in this rule or any provision of Chapter 5101:2-5 or 5101:2-9 of the
Administrative Code, the provisions of this rule shall take
precedence. (C) The person employed as the
administrator of a private, nonprofit therapeutic wilderness camp (PNTWC) is to
meet at least one of the following requirements: (1) At least six years of
experience at a therapeutic wilderness camp, including at least four years
management or supervision of child care personnel and other qualifications and
experience as determined by the governing body in writing. (2) An associate's
degree from a college or university accredited by a nationally recognized
accrediting organization with at least four years of experience, including two
years management or supervision of child care personnel. (3) A bachelor's
degree from a college or university accredited by a nationally recognized
accrediting organization. (D) A PNTWC shall provide a copy of a map for the entire
camp to ODJFS. (E) Child care staff at a therapeutic wilderness camp
shall, as part of the initial orientation training requirements of rule
5101:2-9-03 of the Administrative Code, obtain training in the
following: (1) Wilderness weather
emergency and precautions and procedures. (2) Water
safety. (F) A
PNTWC will ensure there is a child care staff qualified in wilderness first aid
to care for children both at base camp and on excursions away from base camp.
(G) A base camp shall comply with all inspection and safety
standards of a residential facility set forth in Chapter 5101:2-9 of the
Administrative Code unless the requirements are modified by this rule or
statute. A mobile camp does not have to meet the standards of Chapter 5101:2-9
of the Administrative Code, but it shall comply with the additional
requirements set forth in this rule. (H) A child shall meet the following criteria to be
eligible for admittance to a PNTWC: (1) Be ten years old or
older. The PNTWC may admit a nine year old if the child has been evaluated by a
certified professional with no direct affiliation to the camp and the certified
professional approves the placement. (a) For children under age thirteen, the PNTWC shall only
place the children in a program component designed for this age
group. (b) Factors for determining the program component for the
child shall be, at a minimum: (i) Age. (ii) Developmental
level. (iii) Physical
maturity. (iv) Social
maturity. (v) Behavioral
maturity. (vi) Cognitive
level. (vii) Diagnosis, if
any. (viii) Individual needs
of each child. (2) Be experiencing
emotional, behavioral, moral, social or learning difficulties as reported by
the parent or another relative having custody. (3) Be willing to
participate in the camp. The agency shall document the child's willingness
to attend the camp. (I) A PNTWC shall not admit: (1) An
adult. (2) A child who is
pregnant. If a child becomes pregnant while in care, the camp shall arrange for
the child's immediate discharge. (3) A minor parent with
his or her child. (4) A child with primary
medical needs or other medical conditions that cannot be easily provided to the
child at the base campsite or during mobile camping excursions. (5) A child diagnosed
with a severe pervasive developmental disorder which would limit the
child's ability to function in the camp environment. (6) A child for child day
care services. (J) A child shall not be left unsupervised at any
time. (K) A PNTWC shall ensure that no child resides at the camp
for more than twelve consecutive months unless the camp has completed a full
evaluation that determines the child is not ready for reunification with the
child's family or guardian. In order to ensure the safety, health and care
of a child residing longer than twelve consecutive months, the PNTWC shall
obtain: (1) A report of a
physical examination by a licensed physician, physician assistant, clinical
nurse specialist, certified nurse practitioner, or certified nurse-midwife. Any
written documentation of the physical examination shall be completed by the
individual who conducted the examination. (2) A report of a
psychiatric or psychological examination conducted by a psychologist,
psychiatrist or other appropriately licensed professional with no direct
affiliation to the camp. Any written documentation of the psychiatric or
psychological examination shall be completed by the individual who conducted
the examination. (L) A PNTWC shall cooperate with any request from the
director or designee for an inspection or for access to records or written
policies of the camp. (M) A PNTWC shall ensure that if there is a weather
emergency or warning issued by the national weather service in the camp's
geographic area, the children will be moved to a safe structure guarded from
the weather event. (N) A PNTWC shall ensure that all sharp tools used in the
camp, including axes and knives, are locked unless in use by camp staff or
otherwise under camp staff supervision. All sharp tools used in the camp,
including axes and knives shall be locked during sleeping hours. (O) A base camp may use a wood burning stove for heating
purposes if approved by the fire inspector. (P) A base camp shall have a type of indoor and outdoor
illumination available for all structures. (Q) A base camp is not required to have a hand rail for
dirt steps built into a hillside. (R) A base camp is not required to have a hand rail for
bridges that are no longer than eight feet and no higher than five feet from
ground level. (S) A child shall have footwear, clothing and equipment to
protect them from the environment and weather conditions. This equipment shall
never be removed, denied, or made unavailable to a child. There shall never be
a deprivation of any equipment as a consequence for the child's inability
to perform an activity. Such equipment shall include: (1) Sunscreen. (2) Insect
repellent. (3) A backpack if hiking
on an excursion. (4) Personal hygiene
items. (5) Feminine hygiene
supplies. (6) Waterproof
footwear. (7) Sleeping bags for a mobile
camp: (a) Sleeping bags rated for the current seasonal conditions
when the average nighttime temperature is forty degrees fahrenheit or
warmer. (b) Sleeping bags rated for the current seasonal
conditions, shelter and ground pad for colder months when the average nighttime
temperature is thirty-nine degrees fahrenheit or lower and basic clothing to
ensure a child's protection against seasonal change in the
environment. (8) The camp shall provide children with
clean clothing daily, launder clothing weekly and shall provide a means for
children to bathe or otherwise clean their bodies a minimum of one time per
day. (T) Sleeping arrangements at a base camp. (1) Children of the
opposite sex shall not sleep in the same structure. (2) Staff shall not sleep
in the same structure with children of the opposite sex. (3) Sleeping arrangements
shall be approved by the fire inspector and shall meet the requirements set
forth in rule 3701-25-09 of the Administrative Code. (4) Children shall be
provided with proper bedding as appropriate for the season. (U) Bathrooms at a base camp. (1) A base camp shall
have a minimum of one sink with hot and cold water, one flush toilet, and one
bath or shower with hot and cold water per gender if the camp serves more than
one gender. (2) Children of the
opposite sex shall not use the same bathroom facility at the same
time. (3) Staff shall not use
the bathroom facility if children of the opposite sex are using the facility at
the same time. (4) Each bathroom shall
have toilet paper, towels or air dryers, soap, and wastebaskets available for
use. (5) Bathtubs and showers
shall have enclosures or screens which afford individual privacy. (6) When more than one
toilet is located in the same bathroom, each toilet shall be partitioned and
include a door capable of remaining closed. (V) A PNTWC shall comply with all nutritional requirements
of rule 5101:2-9-20 of the Administrative Code except that the camp may deviate
from the timeframe requirements listed in paragraph (A) of rule 5101:2-9-20 of
the Administrative Code. (1) The PNTWC shall not
allow more than five hours to elapse between meals and not more than fourteen
hours between the evening meal and breakfast. (2) The PNTWC shall
prepare menus at least one week in advance and shall demonstrate how the menu
meets the minimum nutritional guidelines as set forth in rule 5101:2-9-20 of
the Adminstrative Code. (W) In addition to the nutritional requirements of rule
5101:2-9-20 of the Administrative Code, a camp shall ensure: (1) Six quarts of potable
water shall be available per person, per day, minimum, plus one additional
quart per person for each five miles hiked. Although it is not required that
the entire amount be hand carried, access to water shall be available at all
times during hiking. (2) In temperatures above
ninety degrees fahrenheit, staff shall make sure a child's intake is a
minimum of three quarts of water per day, electrolyte replacement shall be
available with a hiking group at all times. (3) In temperatures above
eighty degrees fahrenheit, water shall be available for coating the
child's body, and other cooling down techniques shall be available for the
purpose of cooling as needed. (4) Water shall be
available at each campsite. Water cache location information shall be verified
with field staff before the group leaves camp each day. (5) Mobile camps shall
ensure that all water from natural sources be treated for sanitation to
eliminate health hazards. (6) A PNTWC shall obtain
a food service license if required by the local health department. (X) Hiking. (1) Hiking shall not
exceed the physical capability of the weakest member of the group. (2) The weight of a
backpack to be carried by each child shall not exceed twenty per cent of the
child's body weight. If the child is required to carry other items, the
total of all weight carried shall not exceed thirty per cent of the
child's body weight. (3) Hiking shall be prohibited at
temperatures above ninety degrees fahrenheit. or at temperatures below ten
degrees fahrenheit. (4) Staff shall carry thermometers which
accurately display the current outside temperature. (5) If a child cannot or will not hike,
the group shall not continue unless eminent danger exists. The reasons for
refusal or inability to continue will be established and resolved before hiking
continues. Program directors are responsible to train staff regarding this
standard and to regularly monitor compliance. (Y) Any excursion shall have a plan including map routes,
and anticipated schedules and times shall be carried by the field staff and
recorded in the field office. (1) Staff shall maintain
a signed, daily log or dictate a recorded log to be transcribed and signed
immediately following the conclusion of the activity. All log entries shall be
recorded in permanent ink and be made available to the Ohio department of job
and family services (ODJFS) licensing specialist upon request. (2) The log shall contain
the following information regarding the excursion: (a) Accidents. (b) Injuries. (c) Medications. (d) Medical concerns. (e) Behavioral problems. (f) Any unusual occurrences. (Z) A mobile camping excursion shall last no more than
twenty-one days, after which children on the camping excursion shall return to
the base camp. (1) Children must remain
at the base camp at least ten days between mobile camping excursions and
activities. (2) In addition to
meeting the staff ratio requirements in rule 5101:2-9-02 of the Administrative
Code, the camp shall have at least two staff present during any mobile camping
excursion. (3) In a mixed gender
group, there shall be a staff member of each gender with the group at all times
during the excursion. (4) The camp may use
privies and portable toilets in remote camping areas. The camp shall ensure
that the privies and portable toilets are: (a) Maintained in good repair and kept clean at all
times. (b) Constructed and maintained according to manufacturer
designs and standards set forth by the department of health. (c) Equipped with toilet paper at all times. (d) Serviced in accordance with the standards set forth by
the department of health. (e) Privies and portable toilet facilities not equipped
with running water shall have a waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer
available for use inside or adjacent to the toilet facilities. (5) If the camp site is
not provided with privies or other portable toilets, the camp shall comply with
any requirements of the department of health regarding the proper disposal of
human waste in these locations. There shall be a waterless alcohol-based hand
sanitizer available for use. (6) While on a mobile
camping excursion, the camp shall provide: (a) Personal hygiene supplies that are
biodegradable. (b) Means for a child to bathe or clean his or her body at
least twice weekly. (c) Females with hand sanitizing wipes or similar products
as well as feminine products for feminine hygiene purposes. (d) A way to launder clothes or provide clean clothes at
least weekly.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-42 | Qualified residential treatment program (QRTP).
Effective:
January 1, 2024
(A) A residential facility that is certified by the Ohio
department of job and family services (ODJFS) and accepts children for
placement is to comply with the requirements in this rule. Agencies whose
initial certification date is on or after October 1, 2020 are to be compliant
with this rule in order to become certified. Agencies certified prior to
October 1, 2020 have until October 1, 2024 to become compliant with the
requirements related to meeting QRTP standards. In order to maintain title IV-E
reimbursability, residential agencies are to meet the standards in this rule by
October 1, 2021. (B) A QRTP is defined as a facility that: (1) Is not a private,
nonprofit therapeutic wilderness camp. (2) Is not a scholars residential facility. (3) Has a residential program that is
accredited by at least one of the following national accrediting bodies and
provides ongoing proof of such accreditation status to ODJFS: (a) Commission on accreditation of rehabilitation
facilities. (b) Joint commission on accreditation of healthcare
organizations. (c) Council on accreditation. (4) Implements a trauma-informed approach
in which all employees, volunteers, interns and independent contractors within
the facility are trained in that trauma-informed approach. Trauma-informed
training is to occur within the first thirty days of hire and annually
thereafter in accordance with rule 5101:2-9-03 of the Administrative Code. The
required trauma training competencies are located at
https://jfs.ohio.gov/ocf/Family-First.stm. (5) Utilizes a trauma-informed treatment
model that is approved by ODJFS for the population the facility serves. A
trauma-informed treatment model is a program, organization or system
that: (a) Ensures all clinical staff are trained on the trauma model
approved by ODJFS. If the program adds that staff other than those with
clinical responsibilities are to be trained on the trauma model, the program is
to document this through policy and training records; (b) Realizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands
potential paths for recovery; (c) Recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients,
families, staff and others involved with the system; (d) Responds by fully integrating information about trauma into
policies, procedures and practices; (e) Seeks to actively resist re-traumatization; (f) Includes service of clinical needs and that: (i) Is an approved trauma
informed treatment model applicable to the population of youth served, located
at https://jfs.ohio.gov/ocf/Family-First.stm, or (ii) Meets the substance
abuse and mental health services administration (SAMHSA) implementation domains
and follows the six key principles of the SAMHSA trauma informed approach which
are located at https://jfs.ohio.gov/ocf/Family-First.stm; and (iii) Receives approval
by the department or designee. (6) Has registered or licensed nursing
and clinical staff who operate in accordance with the following: (a) Provide care within the scope of their practice as defined by
state law. (b) Are accessible on-site or face-to-face via interactive
videoconferencing based on the youth's clinical and/or medical needs.
Interactive videoconferencing may not be appropriate for a youth in crisis at
the facility. (c) Are available twenty-four hours a day and seven days a
week. (7) Cooperates with the qualified
individual and the family and permanency team to complete the assessment within
thirty days of placement of a child in a QRTP in accordance with rule
5101:2-42-12 of the Administrative Code. (8) Provides consideration for the
youth's safety and developmental needs, the treatment should be
family-driven with both the youth and the family included in all aspects of
care, if in the best interest of the youth. The key components of
family-centered residential treatment are to be documented in the child's
record and include the following: (a) Facilitation of regular contact between the youth and other
members of the family including siblings; (b) Actively involving and supporting families who have a youth
placed in the residential facility; (c) Providing outreach, ongoing support and aftercare for the
youth and the family. (9) Completes discharge planning that is
to: (a) Include planning for all youth discharged from the
QRTP. (b) Begin in partnership with the legal custodian and/or
custodial agency no later than the next business day after a youth is admitted
to the QRTP. (c) Be reviewed by the QRTP no less than every thirty days and
during every service plan review. (10) Provides aftercare support for all
youth placed more than fourteen days who are exiting the QRTP to family-based
settings including: (a) Reunification with family. (b) Pre-finalized adoptive family. (c) Kinship care. (d) Foster care. (e) Independent living. (11) Includes at least a six-month period
of family-based aftercare support for all youth after discharge, even if the
youth reaches the age of majority. The aftercare support is to: (a) Be provided within the youth or family's community as
appropriate to promote the continuity of care for children. (b) Be individualized and driven by the youth, the caregivers and
the family as appropriate, and include the following: (i) Monthly contact with
the youth and caregivers to promote and maintain engagement, and to regularly
evaluate the family's needs. Monthly contact may be in-person, through
interactive videoconferencing, or via phone or other electronic
means. (ii) Referring and
coordinating engagement with any applicable community providers serving the
youth or family. The QRTP will ensure they make themselves available to the
community providers for ongoing consultation and document the consultation in
writing. Documentation should include all resources and services needed and
detail how the resources and services will be provided. (iii) Written
documentation provided to all participants of the discharge plan prior to
discharge with information on how to access additional supports from the QRTP
and community providers including contact information and steps required to
access each provider. (12) May provide six months of aftercare
services as defined in rule 5101:2-1-01 and pursuant to rule 5101:2-47-23.1 of
the Administrative Code, if the child was placed by a Title IV-E
agency. (13) Ensures all QRTP requirements able to
be recorded in the residential treatment information system (RTIS) are
documented within RTIS.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-43 | Residential infant care center.
Effective:
January 1, 2023
(A) Residential infant care center (RICC)
means a facility that has as its primary purpose the provision of residential
services for infants affected by substance use and the preservation of families
through infant diversion practices and programs. (B) A residential infant care center can
not be licensed as a children's crisis care center. (C) An infant, from birth to twelve
months old, is eligible to be placed in a residential infant care center if one
of the following applies: (1) The infant was born
substance exposed and affected requires additional care. (2) The infant's
parent or caretaker requires additional education and support services
regarding care for the infant. (3) A public children
services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) requires
additional time to determine placement of the infant. (D) A RICC may provide residential care
for up to ninety consecutive days. (E) Any of the following with legal
custody of the infant may place an infant in a RICC: (1) A parent, guardian,
or legal custodian. (2) A public children
services agency. (3) A private child
placing agency. (F) Pediatric medical service means
medical service required to be provided by, or with oversight from, a licensed
medical professional, including prescribing medication, administering rectal or
intravenous medication, and outpatient laboratory service, and providing for
sick visits, onsite well child exams, and children assisted by medical
technology. (G) A RICC, if using medication to treat
infants will need a terminal distributor of dangerous drugs license issued by
the state board of pharmacy under section 4729.54 of the Revised
Code. (H) A RICC is to comply with all
requirements in accordance with Chapter 5101:2-9 of the Administrative Code.
Exceptions to the requirements are listed in appendix A to this
rule. (I) The RICC is to develop a plan of safe
care for an infant born substance exposed and affected including the
following: (1) Assist with the
health and substance use disorder treatment needs of the infant and the parent
or caregiver. (2) Develop and implement
a program monitoring, supporting, and connecting the family or
caregiver. (J) The RICC is to develop and implement
a program for parents and caregivers of the infant, either individually or in a
group setting, to address: (1) Teaching parenting
skills. (2) Bonding with the
infant. (3) Caring for the
infant's special needs. (K) A RICC is to ensure the
following: (1) Child-care staff,
volunteers and interns (in positions responsible for the daily direct care or
supervision of children) to be at least eighteen years old and have a high
school diploma or certificate of high school equivalence. (2) Volunteers and
interns who are under twenty-one years of age are to be
supervised. (3) A RICC may include
volunteers or interns in child-to-staff ratios only during an emergency which
includes an extremely ill staff member. (L) A criminal records check is to be
requested for volunteers and interns in accordance with section 2151.86 of the
Revised Code. (M) A RICC is to employ registered
nurses, patient care assistants, or licensed professional nurses to meet the
required child-staff ratio. (N) A RICC is to have the center peer
supporter, family advocate, licensed social worker (LSW), licensed independent
social worker (LISW), licensed professional counselor (LPC), or licensed
professional clinical counselor (LPCC) to do the following: (1) Provide wraparound
services to the infant's family or caregiver. (2) Coordinate with the
transferring hospital, PCSA or PCPA. (3) Refer parent or
caregiver to appropriate community agencies and services for support and
aftercare. (4) Follow-up with the
parent or caregiver after the infant's discharge. (O) The RICC is to encourage
employee-supervised dyad care and permit one of the infant's parents or
caregivers to room-in with the infant for bonding and education. (P) The RICC is to provide the following
for dyad care and rooming-in stay. (1) A single bed and all
necessary bedding (sheets, pillow and blankets). (2) All meals and snacks
during rooming-in. (3) A minimum of one
private shower and toilet for the use of any parents or caregivers who are
rooming-in. (4) All rules and
policies are to be provided to the parent or caregiver and notification of
restriction or cancellation if rules are not followed. (Q) The RICC is to provide one bathing
room for every six infants that includes a minimum of one hip level bathtub
with hot and cold water, one changing station and a door with a full-length
glass window for safety and observation. (R) The child-staff ratio is at least one
awake child-care staff on duty at all times for every five
infants. (S) Use cribs and other infant sleep
products that meet the United States consumer product safety commission's
safety standards for safe sleep. (T) Follow the department of
health's safe sleep education program recommendations established under
section 3701.66 of the Revised Code.
View Appendix
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-44 | Family preservation center.
Effective:
January 1, 2023
(A) A family preservation center (FPC)
certificate is obtained by a facility actively being licensed first as either a
children's crisis care facility, or a residential infant care center, and
by meeting the qualifications outlined in this rule. (B) A FPC is to obtain and maintain
accreditation under one of the following: (1) The commission on
accreditation of rehabilitaiton facilities. (2) The joint commisson
on accreditation of healthcare organizations. (3) The council on
accreditation for children and family services. (C) The FPC is to obtain and maintain
certification by the Ohio department of mental health and addiction
services. (D) A FPC is to provide family preservation programs
informed by evidence-based or promising practices, including all of the
following; (1) Family case
management. (2) Service referral and
linkage. (3) Parent
education. (4) Trauma screening and
healing-centered interventions.
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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Rule 5180:2-9-45 | Scholars residential center.
Effective:
January 1, 2024
(A) A scholars residential center (SRC)
is a center that meets all of the following: (1) The center is a
certified affiliate in good standing of a national organization with a mission
to help underserved children in middle school and high school in a
comprehensive manner that: (a) Is academically focused and service-oriented and in a
family-like setting. (b) Is voluntary and uses a competitive selection
process. (2) Is private and
not-for-profit. (3) Does not receive
Title IV-E funding or any associated Title IV funds related to child
welfare. (4) Only accepts direct
placement of children placed by their parents or legal guardians. (B) A private non-custodial agency (PNA)
operating as a scholars residential center (SRC) is to comply with all
applicable rules of Chapters 5101:2-5 and 5101:2-9 of the Administrative Code.
If there is a conflict between a requirement of any provision in this rule or
any provision of Chapter 5101:2-5 or 5101:2-9 of the Administrative Code, the
provisions of this rule will take precedence. (C) A scholars residential center is
exempt from the following: (1) Any policy or
component of policy that is not specific or relevant to the SRC. (2) Discharge
summaries. (3) Case plans or service
plans. (4) Recreation and
leisure activity requirements, provided that the center has a recreation area
available and permits children to swim and has a person present, who has
completed life-saving or water safety training. (5) Visiting and
communications policies, provided that the center ensures the children have
contact with their family. (6) Treatment focused
requirements established for residential agencies. (D) A SRC is permitted to request agency
waivers. (E) The SRC training requirements for
staff include: (1) Orientation training,
with a minimum of twenty hours of orientation within the first thirty days of
hire before staff are able to be alone with the children, as described within
rule 5101:2-9-03 of the Administrative Code. (2) Current American red
cross, American heart association, or equivalent first aid and cardiopulmonary
resuscitation certification as described within rule 5101:2-9-03 of the
Administrative Code. (3) One hour of annual
trauma training. (F) A center will provide notification
and documentation of critical incidents to the child's parent(s) or legal
custodian(s).
Last updated January 30, 2026 at 1:48 PM
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