Chapter 5180:7-1 | Adoption Related Processes and Procedures

Rule 5180:7-1-03 | Putative father registry.

• Effective: July 15, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Who is a putative father?

As defined in section 3107.01 of the Revised Code, a putative father is a man, including one under age eighteen, who may be a child's father and to whom all of the following apply:

(1) He was not married to the child's mother at the time of the child's conception or birth;

(2) He has not adopted the child;

(3) He has not been determined, prior to the date a petition to adopt the child is filed, to have a parent and child relationship with the child by a court proceeding pursuant to sections 3111.01 to 3111.18 of the Revised Code, a court proceeding in another state, an administrative agency proceeding pursuant to sections 3111.38 to 3111.54 of the Revised Code, or an administrative agency proceeding in another state; and

(4) He has not acknowledged paternity of the child pursuant to sections 3111.21 to 3111.35 of the Revised Code.

(B) What is the Ohio putative father registry (OPFR)?

The OPFR is a registry established and maintained by the department of children and youth (DCY) and provides for the following:

(1) Allows a putative father to register to be notified in the event that a petition to adopt a minor has been filed for a child the father claims is his.

(2) Allows a mother, a public children services agency (PCSA), a private child placing agency (PCPA), a private noncustodial agency (PNA), or an attorney arranging an adoption to request a search to determine if a child has a registered putative father.

(3) Identifies if a putative father is registered for the child and is to be contacted prior to finalization of the adoption.

(C) As used in this rule, what entities are included in the term 'agency'?

As used in this rule, 'agency' includes the following:

(1) PCSA;

(2) PCPA; or

(3) PNA.

(D) How does a putative father register with the OPFR?

The putative father may register with the OPFR in the following ways:

(1) Online at https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-families/family-support-stabilization/putative-father-registry; or

(2) Submit a completed DCY 01694 "Ohio Putative Father Registry - Registration for Fathers" to DCY via email at [e-mail].

(E) How may a putative father get assistance in registering with the OPFR?

The putative father may contact DCY for assistance in registering with the OPFR.

(F) When may a putative father register with the OPFR?

A putative father may register with the OPFR at any time. In order to preserve his right to consent to an adoption, the putative father is to register prior to the birth of the child or within fifteen days following the birth of the child.

(G) How may an attorney, a mother, or an agency request a search of the OPFR?

An attorney, a mother, or an agency may request a search of the OPFR online at https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-families/family-support-stabilization/putative-father-registry.

(H) When is a search of the OPFR to be requested?

An attorney, a mother, or an agency may request a search of the OPFR at any time; however, for purposes of adoption finalization, a search of the OPFR is to be requested no earlier than sixteen days after the child's birth and the results filed with the court prior to the issuance of a final adoption decree or interlocutory order of adoption.

(I) When is a search of the OPFR not required?

An attorney, a mother, or an agency is not required to search the OPFR if one of the following applies:

(1) The mother was married at the time the child was born or conceived.

(2) The parent placing the child previously adopted the child.

(3) A man has been determined to have a parent and child relationship with the minor, prior to the date the petition to adopt the child is filed, by:

(a) A court proceeding pursuant to sections 3111.01 to 3111.18 of the Revised Code;

(b) A court proceeding similar to that in paragraph (I)(3)(a) of this rule in another state;

(c) An administrative agency proceeding pursuant to sections 3111.38 to 3111.54 of the Revised Code;

(d) An administrative agency proceeding similar to paragraph (I)(3)(c) of this section in another state; or,

(e) A signed acknowledgment pursuant to section 2151.232, 3111.25, or 3111.821 of the Revised Code.

(4) The PCSA or PCPA has permanent custody of the child pursuant to Chapter 2151. or division (B) of section 5103.15 of the Revised Code.

(J) What is to occur if the search of the OPFR identifies a putative father?

(1) If it is determined that a putative father is registered for the minor, DCY is to provide the attorney, mother or agency a certified copy of the putative father's registration form.

(2) Within ten days of providing the certified copy to the attorney, mother or agency, DCY is to provide written notice of the following to the putative father:

(a) That he may be the father of the minor he claimed on the registration form;

(b) That the minor is being or may be placed for adoption; and

(c) Of his right to consent or refuse to consent to the minor's adoption to the extent provided under Chapter 3107. of the Revised Code.

(K) What is to occur if the search of the OPFR does not identify a putative father?

If it is determined that a putative father is not registered for the minor, DCY is to provide the attorney, mother or agency a certified written statement of the results, including the date the search request was submitted.

(L) What is an attorney, a mother, or an agency to do upon receipt of the OPFR search results?

The attorney, a mother, or an agency is to file a certified copy of the results received from OPFR with the court, prior to the issuance of the final adoption decree or the interlocutory order of adoption.

(M) What additional steps is a PCSA or PCPA to complete when determining if there is a putative father?

The PCSA or PCPA is to work with the mother to identify the name of the child's father and determine if either parent is eligible for membership with an American Indian tribe.

Last updated July 15, 2026 at 7:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3107.062, 3107.063, 3107.065, 5153.166
Amplifies: 3107.01, 3107.06, 3107.061, 3107.0611, 3107.0612, 3107.0613, 3107.0614, 3107.062, 3107.063, 3107.064, 3107.067, 3107.068, 3107.069, 3107.07
Five Year Review Date: 7/15/2031

Rule 5180:7-1-09 | Assessor visits and adoption prefinalization report.

• Effective: July 15, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What does prefinalization mean?

Prefinalization refers to the period of time from the date a child is placed in an adoptive home and the date the adoption is finalized, as evidenced by a final decree of adoption or interlocutory order of adoption issued by the court.

(B) What contact is to be made with the child, prospective adoptive parent(s) and any household members during prefinalization?

An assessor, who meets the qualifications in section 3107.014 of the Revised Code and rule 5180:2-48-06 of the Administrative Code, in the employ of, appointed by, or under contract with the court, public children services agency (PCSA) or private child placing agency (PCPA) that is assigned full responsibility for case planning and management of the child's case is to complete the following, at minimum:

(1) One face-to-face visit with the child and each prospective adoptive parent in the adoptive home, during the first seven days of placement, not including the date of placement.

(2) One face-to-face visit with the child and each prospective adoptive parent in the adoptive home, during the first thirty days of placement, not including the visit completed during the first seven days of placement.

(3) After the first thirty days of placement, one face-to-face visit monthly with the child and each prospective adoptive parent in the adoptive home.

(4) One face-to-face visit with any additional permanent household members, every sixty days, in the adoptive home,

(5) Two face-to-face visits, at least sixty days apart, in the adoptive home, with any permanent household members who temporarily reside elsewhere.

(C) Can another assessor complete a prefinalization visit?

(1) The assigned assessor is to complete the majority of the visits identified in paragraph (B) of this rule.

(2) If the assigned assessor is unable to complete a visit, another assessor from the same agency may complete a visit, and is to document in the child's case the reason someone other than the assigned assessor completed the visit.

(3) If circumstances of the case require more than the minimum number of visits identified in paragraph (B) of this rule, the additional visit(s) may be conducted by an assessor employed by an agency contracted by the PCSA or PCPA to provide services for the case.

(D) What assessment information is to be gathered during prefinalization visits?

The following information is to be gathered from the assessor's observations and interviews with the child, prospective adoptive parent(s), household members, and any other professionals working with the family, and is to be documented in the child's case record and on the DCY 01699 "Prefinalization Adoption Assessment Report," to inform how the placement is progressing:

(1) The child's safety and well-being, including, but not limited to the child's:

(a) Current behavior, emotional, and social functioning.

(b) Adjustment to the placement.

(c) Feelings around loss, separation, and the reasons for being adopted.

(d) Physical, cognitive, and emotional development.

(e) Educational progress and status.

(f) Medical needs.

(2) New information regarding the child, prospective adoptive parent(s) or other household members, including, but not limited to:

(a) Changes in marital status.

(b) Significant changes in the health status of a household member.

(c) Placement of additional children.

(d) Birth of a child.

(e) Death of a child, prospective adoptive parent(s), or household member.

(f) A criminal charge, conviction or arrest of the child, prospective adoptive parent(s) or any household member.

(g) Addition or removal of a temporary or permanent household member.

(h) Family's relocation.

(i) Child's daily activities.

(j) Change in the prospective adoptive parent(s) employment or any financial hardships.

(k) Any supportive service needs for the child or prospective adoptive parent(s) to assure the child's safety and well-being.

(E) What is to occur if the child is placed into an approved adoptive home outside of Ohio, through the "Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children"?

The agency is to follow procedures pursuant to Chapter 5180:2-52 of the Administrative Code and the regulations of the interstate compact.

(F) What is to occur if the prospective adoptive parent(s) or household member(s) knowingly makes a false statement that impacts the homestudy?

If the prospective adoptive parent(s) or household member(s) knowingly makes a false statement that impacts the homestudy, the assessor is to follow procedures pursuant to section 3107.031 of the Revised Code.

(G) When is the assessor to complete and file the DCY 01699 for the adoptive placement with the court?

(1) The assessor is to complete and file the DCY 01699 with the court no later than twenty days prior to the date scheduled for the final hearing on the adoption in accordance with section 3107.12 of the Revised Code.

(2) If the court determines there is good cause for filing the report at a later date, the assessor is to file the DCY 01699 prior to the issuance of a final decree of adoption or finalization of an interlocutory order of adoption.

(3) If the prospective adoptive parent is the child's stepparent, the DCY 01699 does not need to be completed, unless the court determines that it is in the best interest of the child and orders that an assessor conduct a prefinalization assessment.

(H) Who is to receive a copy of the DCY 01699?

(1) The assessor is to provide a redacted copy of the DCY 01699 to the prospective adoptive parent(s) no later than twenty days prior to the date scheduled for the final hearing on the adoption. All identifying information, as defined in section 3107.01 of the Revised code, regarding the biological or other legal parent(s) is to be redacted prior to providing a copy of this report to the prospective adoptive parent(s).

(2) The assessor is to maintain a copy of the redacted DCY 01699 provided to the prospective adoptive parent(s) in the adoptive child's case record and adoptive family's case record.

(3) The assessor is to maintain the adoptive parent(s) written acknowledgment of receipt of the DCY 01699, including the date the information was provided, in the adoptive child's case record and adoptive family's case record.

(4) The assessor is to provide a copy of the acknowledgment of receipt to the adoptive parent(s)

Last updated July 15, 2026 at 7:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3107.101, 3107.12, 5153.166
Amplifies: 3107.101, 3107.12, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/15/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 5/14/1998, 2/15/2002, 9/1/2003, 12/11/2006, 1/1/2016, 2/1/2021

Rule 5180:7-1-11 | Foster caregiver adoption approval.

• Effective: November 6, 2025
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) How may a foster caregiver who is not an approved adoptive parent express interest in adoption of any child(ren) not placed in the foster caregiver's home?

A foster caregiver may apply to be an adoptive parent for any child not placed in the home by completing the following:

(1) A foster caregiver is to submit the DCY 01691 "Application for Child Placement" to the agency that recommends their foster home certification or to any other public children service agency (PCSA), private child placing agency (PCPA) or private non-custodial agency (PNA) that completes adoption homestudies.

(2) The assessor may assist the foster caregiver in revising the current DCY 01691 from the foster home record, or in completing a new DCY 01691. The DCY 01691 is an application to initiate the homestudy process to become an adoptive parent, through the completion of a DCY 01673 "Assessment for Child Placement" by a PCSA, PCPA or PNA.

(B) How may a foster caregiver who is not an approved adoptive parent express interest in adoption of a child(ren) placed in the foster caregiver's home?

A foster caregiver may apply to be an adoptive parent for a child placed in the home by completing the following:

(1) A foster caregiver may apply to become an adoptive parent of a child(ren) placed in their home who is legally available for adoption by completing and submitting the DCY 01692 "Application for Adoption of a Foster Child or Sibling Group" to the agency that recommends their foster home certification or to any other PCSA, PCPA, or PNA that completes adoption homestudies.

(2) The assessor may assist the foster caregiver in completing the DCY 01692. The DCY 01692 is an application to initiate the homestudy process to become an adoptive parent for a specific child(ren) placed in a foster caregiver's home. This application serves as an expedited homestudy, in place of the DCY 01691 and DCY 01673 outlined in paragraph (A) of this rule.

(C) What is to occur if the DCY 01691 or DCY 01692 is submitted to an agency that is different than the agency recommending their foster home certification?

The following is to occur if the DCY 01691 or DCY 01692 is submitted to an agency that is different than the agency recommending their foster home certification.

(1) The agency initiating the adoption homestudy is to have the applicant sign a release of information for the agency that recommends their foster home certification and is to send the release of information to that agency to gather documentation from paragraph (E) of this rule.

(2) Upon receipt of the signed release of information, the agency that recommended the foster home certification is to provide all requested documentation within fifteen business days.

(D) What is to occur if an agency initiates an adoptive homestudy with an applicant who resides in another county?

The agency initiating the adoption homestudy is to notify the PCSA in the county the applicant resides, within ten days of initiation, in accordance with rule 5180:2-48-12 of the Administrative Code.

(E) What documentation from the foster home record is to be compiled and reviewed by the assessor during the homestudy?

(1) DCY 01673 "Assessment for Child Placement," if completed as part of the applicant's initial foster home certification.

(2) JFS 01349 "Foster Parent Home Study," if completed as part of the applicant's initial foster home certification.

(3) DCY 01673-A "Child Characteristics Checklist for Foster Care and/or Adoption."

(4) DCY 01385 "Assessment for Child Placement Update," if the foster home certification had updates completed since initial certification.

(5) DCY 01653 "Medical Statement for Foster Caregiver(s)/Adoptive Applicant and All Household Members."

(6) The most recent background checks for all adult household members in accordance with rule 5180:2-5-09.1 of the Administrative Code, including bureau of criminal investigation (BCI) reports, federal bureau of investigation (FBI) reports, Ohio comprehensive child welfare information system (Ohio CCWIS) alleged perpetrator searches, any out of state child abuse and neglect reports, and national sex offender registry searches.

(7) Training records.

(8) Case record information documented by the worker's visits to the foster home.

(9) Any other documentation from the foster home record including, but not limited to, the most recent fire inspection reports, safety audits, foster home exit interviews, and copies of all complaint or rule violation investigations and any applicable corrective action plans. The agency that recommends the foster home certification, if different, is to notify the agency initiating the adoption homestudy of any outstanding complaints, rule noncompliance investigations, or corrective action plans that have not been fully implemented, and is to include the nature of the investigations or corrective action plans.

(F) What activities is the assessor to complete during the homestudy, if a foster caregiver is applying for adoption of any child(ren) not placed in their home, using the DCY 01691?

(1) Review the DCY 01691 and all supporting documentation from the foster home record as outlined in paragraph (E) of this rule.

(2) Conduct a home visit with all household members.

(3) Discuss with the applicant the differences between foster care and adoption, and the reason for the request for adoption approval at this time.

(4) Discuss with the applicant the availability of adoption assistance and postfinalization adoption services. Including Title IV-E adoption assistance, state adoption maintenance subsidy, post adoption special services subsidy, and non-recurring adoption expenses.

(5) Complete DCY 01530 "Large Family Assessment", as outlined in rule 5180:2-48-12 of the Administrative Code, when a family has a total of five or more children residing in the home, including foster children and children in kinship care; or if the family will have a total of five or more children who will reside in the home upon the adoptive placement of a child.

(6) Verify that the applicant has fulfilled the required adoption training as outlined in rule 5180:2-48-09 of the Administrative Code.

(7) Complete updated background checks for all adult household members as outlined in rule 5180:2-5-09.1 of the Administrative Code, including bureau of criminal investigation (BCI) reports, federal bureau of investigation (FBI) reports, Ohio comprehensive child welfare information system (Ohio CCWIS) alleged perpetrator searches, any out of state child abuse and neglect reports, and national sex offender registry searches.

(8) Document information obtained during the homestudy process on the DCY 01673. Assessor may document this information by revising the applicant's original DCY 01673, or by completing a new DCY 01673. Include a written narrative that the applicant has been evaluated by an assessor to determine compliance with all homestudy requirements, as outlined in rule 5180:2-48-12 of the Administrative Code.

(G) What activities is the assessor to complete during the homestudy, if a foster caregiver is applying for adoption of a child(ren) placed in their home, using the DCY 01692?

(1) Review the DCY 01692 and all supporting documentation from the foster home record as outlined in paragraph (E) of this rule.

(2) Conduct a home visit with all household members.

(3) Observe the interaction between the child(ren) to be adopted and other household members. Discuss how the applicant is working with the child(ren) on their case plan objectives and how the applicant will manage any long-term challenges the child(ren) may experience.

(4) Discuss with the applicant the differences between foster care and adoption, and the reason for the request for adoption approval at this time.

(5) Discuss with the applicant the availability of adoption assistance and postfinalization adoption services. Including Title IV-E adoption assistance, state adoption maintenance subsidy, post adoption special services subsidy, and non-recurring adoption expenses.

(6) Complete DCY 01530 "Large Family Assessment", as outlined in rule 5180:2-48-12 of the Administrative Code, when a family has a total of five or more children residing in the home, including foster children and children in kinship care; or if the family will have a total of five or more children who will reside in the home upon the adoptive placement of a child.

(7) Verify that the applicant has fulfilled the required adoption training as outlined in rule 5180:2-48-09 of the Administrative Code.

(8) The agency is not to have the applicant to undergo a new criminal records check as a condition of acceptance or approval of the DCY 01692. However, the agency is to inform the applicant that a criminal records check, pursuant to rule 5180:2-5-09.1 of the Administrative Code, is to be completed before a court issues a final decree of adoption or an interlocutory order of adoption.

(H) What decisions may the assessor make upon completion of the homestudy?

(1) For applications submitted on the DCY 01691, for a foster caregiver who is applying for adoption of any child(ren) not placed in their home, the assessor may approve or deny the applicant as an adoptive parent and is to document the decision on the DCY 01673.

(2) For applications submitted on the DCY 01692, for a foster caregiver who is applying for adoption of any child(ren) placed in their home, the assessor may approve or deny the applicant as an adoptive parent for the specific child(ren) listed on the DCY 01692 and is to document the decision on the DCY 01692.

(I) When is the applicant to be notified of the homestudy decision?

The assessor is to provide the applicant written notification of the decision within ten days after the homestudy has been approved or denied.

(J) What is to be included in the adoption homestudy approval notification?

(1) Date of homestudy approval; to be the same as the assessor's signature date.

(2) A description of the child(ren) characteristics from the DCY 01673-A, when the homestudy is for a foster caregiver who is being approved as an adoptive parent for any child(ren) not placed in their home that applied with the DCY 01691.

(3) The name of the child(ren), when the homestudy for a foster caregiver who is being approved as an adoptive parent for a child(ren) placed in their home that applied with the DCY 01692.

(K) What is to be included in the adoption homestudy denial notification?

(1) A detailed explanation of the reasons for the denial.

(2) A description of the procedures for an agency review pursuant to rule 5180:2-48-24 of the Administrative Code.

(L) When does the DCY 01673 approval expire, for an applicant approved as an adoptive parent for any child(ren) not placed in their home?

The approval period will be equal to the current foster home certification span. The approved adoptive parent is to apply for continuous certification and comply with periodic updates, as outlined in rule 5180:2-5-24 of the Administrative Code.

(M) When does the DCY 01692 approval expire, for an applicant approved as an adoptive parent for a child(ren) placed in their home?

The DCY 01692 approval is to expire once the foster child(ren) is adopted, as evidenced by a final decree of adoption or interlocutory decree.

(N) What procedures is the agency to follow upon approval?

The agency is to follow the adoptive placement procedures as outlined in rule 5180:2-48-16 of the Administrative Code including, but not limited to, conducting a matching conference.

(O) What is to occur if an agency determines that any statement or document provided during the homestudy process is knowingly falsified by the applicant?

The agency is to follow procedures outlined in rule 5180:2-33-13 of the Administrative Code and is not to release the homestudy to any other agency or court.

(P) What is the timeframe in which the agency is to complete the DCY 01673 homestudy, for a foster caregiver who is applying for adoption of any child(ren) not placed in their home?

The agency is to complete the DCY 01673 homestudy within the following timeframe:

(1) Upon request, the agency is to provide the DCY 01691 to the foster caregiver within seven business days.

(2) The agency is to begin the homestudy within thirty days of receiving the application.

(3) The homestudy is to be completed within one hundred eighty days of receiving the application. An agency failing to complete a homestudy within that timeframe is to document on the DCY 01673 the reason(s) this requirement is unable to be met.

(4) If a homestudy is not completed within one year of receiving the application, it is to be terminated. If the agency decides not to terminate the homestudy, this decision is made at the agency's discretion and documented on DCY 01673. If an agency decides to terminate the homestudy, it is to notify the applicant in writing no less than thirty days prior to the termination. This notification is to include the reason for termination and the procedures for requesting a review of the agency's decision.

(Q) What is the timeframe in which the agency is to provide the DCY 01692, for a foster caregiver who is applying for adoption of a child(ren) placed in their home?

The agency is to provide the DCY 01692 upon request from a foster caregiver. All recruitment efforts for adoption of the child will be ongoing until the child is matched per rule 5180:2-48-16 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated November 6, 2025 at 8:41 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 2151.86, 3107.012, 3107.031, 3107.032, 3107.033, 5153.166
Amplifies: 2151.86, 3107.011, 3107.012 3107.031, 3107.032, 3107.033, 3107.034
Five Year Review Date: 11/6/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/1990, 9/18/1996, 2/13/1998 (Emer.), 12/31/1998 (Emer.), 4/1/1999, 9/9/2008, 7/1/2009, 11/1/2015, 3/1/2021

Rule 5180:7-1-17 | Postfinalization adoption services.

• Effective: July 15, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What does postfinalization mean?

Postfinalization refers to the period of time after the date an adoption is finalized as evidenced by a final decree of adoption or interlocutory order of adoption issued by the court.

(B) What are postfinalization adoption services?

Postfinalization adoption services support birth parents, adoptive parents or adopted persons after an adoption is legally finalized and can include financial assistance, counseling, support groups, respite care, and access to various community resources.

(C) Who is to facilitate postfinalization adoption services?

Any public children services agency (PCSA), private child placing agency (PCPA), or private noncustodial agency (PNA) that places a child, or assists in placing a child, for adoption is to have a written policy regarding their facilitation of postfinalization adoption services to families.

(D) What is an agency to do upon request for postfinalization adoption services?

Upon request, the agency is to make postfinalization adoption services available, either directly to the family or by referral. If the agency does not provide direct postfinalization adoption services, the agency is to do the following:

(1) Refer each person who requests postfinalization adoption services to the regional Ohio kinship and adoption navigator (OhioKAN) agency, in addition to other local agencies providing the services the family is requesting.

(2) Provide consultation on adoption-related issues to other professionals who are working with the family, upon written request of the parent, legal custodian, or guardian.

(3) Provide information regarding the procedures for releasing identifying information pursuant to rule 5180:7-1-18 of the Administrative Code.

(E) What steps may an agency take if contacted for postfinalization adoption services regarding a child whose adoptive placement was made by another custodial agency?

If the agency is contacted for postfinalization adoption services and the agency determines that another custodial agency made the adoptive placement, the agency may contact that custodial agency for assistance in providing postfinalization services.

(F) If an adoptive parent, adopted person, or birth parent is unable to access postfinalization adoption services, which agency is ultimately responsible for the provision of, or referral to the services?

The PCSA located in the county of residence of the adoptive parent, adopted person, or birth parent, respectively, is the agency ultimately responsible for the provision of, or referral to, appropriate postfinalization services.

Last updated July 15, 2026 at 7:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/15/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 7/1/1990, 2/13/1998 (Emer.), 11/3/2008, 2/1/2021

Rule 5180:7-1-18 | Release of information post adoption finalization.

• Effective: July 15, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What information is an assessor to provide to birth parents who enter into a voluntary surrender agreement, regarding the release of their identifying information?

The assessor is to inform birth parents who enter into a voluntary surrender agreement, of the following:

(1) Completion of the DCY 01693, "Ohio Law and Adoption Materials" will indicate their decision to authorize or deny the release of identifying information to the adopted person or adoptive parent. The DCY 01693 is to be signed at least seventy-two hours prior to the time the consent to the adoption is executed.

(2) The option, at any time and for as many times as they want, to reverse their decision regarding the release of identifying information by contacting the Ohio department of health (ODH) and requesting a copy of a denial of release form or a copy of an authorization of release form.

(3) If the birth parent does not sign the denial of release of information, identifying information can be released to:

(a) The adoptive parent(s) when the adopted person is at least eighteen years of age but less than twenty-one years of age and the adoptive parent(s) submits a request to ODH.

(b) The adopted person when the adopted person is at least twenty-one years of age and the adopted person submits a request to ODH.

(4) The contact information for ODH to obtain instructions regarding the filing of authorizations or denials.

(B) How is a birth parent who has an involuntary termination of parental rights, to authorize or deny the release of identifying information?

A birth parent who has an involuntary termination of parental rights, may authorize or deny the release of identifying information by contacting ODH and requesting a copy of a denial of release form or a copy of an authorization of release form.

(C) What information is an assessor to provide to the adoptive parent(s) regarding the release of identifying information?

The assessor is to inform the adoptive parent(s) that:

(1) When the adopted person is at least eighteen years of age but less than twenty-one years of age, the adoptive parent can submit a request to ODH to request a copy of the contents of the adoption files which may include identifying information about the birth parents.

(2) When the adopted person is at least twenty-one years of age, the adopted person can submit a request to ODH to request a copy of the contents of the adoption files which may include identifying information about the birth parents.

(3) When the adopted person is at least twenty-one years of age, the adopted person can submit a request to ODH authorizing ODH to assist the birth parents or birth siblings in finding the adopted person's name by adoption. The adopted person may alter this decision at any time or for as many times as the adopted person wants by submitting a request to ODH.

(D) What nonidentifying information is an agency, attorney or court to provide an adopted person at least eighteen years of age, an adoptive parent of an adopted person under eighteen years of age, or an adoptive relative of a deceased adopted person?

Upon written request, the agency, attorney or court is to provide the following nonidentifying information:

(1) Birth parents' age at the time the child was adopted.

(2) The medical and genetic history of the birth parents.

(3) The age, sex, and medical and genetic history of an adopted person's birth siblings and extended family members.

(4) The heritage and ethnic background, educational level, general physical appearance, religion, occupation, and cause of death of the birth parents, birth siblings, and extended family members.

(5) Any information that may be included on the DCY 01616, "Social and Medical History."

(6) Any information that is not deemed as identifying information as defined in sections 3107.01 and 3107.60 of the Revised Code.

(E) What nonidentifying information is an agency, attorney or court to provide a birth parent of an adopted person at least eighteen years of age, a birth sibling at least eighteen years of age, or a birth family member of a deceased birth parent?

Upon written request, and subject to a determination made pursuant to division (E) of section 3107.66 of the Revised Code, the agency, attorney, or court is to provide any nonidentifying information available, including the following:

(1) An adoptive parent's age at the time of adoption.

(2) An adoptive sibling's age at the time of adoption.

(3) The heritage, ethnic background, religion, educational level and occupation of the adoptive parent.

(4) General information known about the well-being of the adopted person before and after the adoption.

Last updated July 15, 2026 at 7:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3107.47, 3107.082, 3107.083, 5153.166
Amplifies: 3107.081, 3107.082, 3107.083, 3107.09, 3107.14, 3107.45, 3107.46, 3107.47, 3107.48, 3107.49, 3107.50, 3107.61, 3107.60, 3107.66, 3107.171, 3107.38, 3107.381
Five Year Review Date: 7/15/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 1/14/1983, 7/1/1990, 9/18/1996, 9/15/2008

Rule 5180:7-1-19 | Adoptive family and adoptive child case record.

• Effective: July 15, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What is an adoptive family case record?

An adoptive family case record is a detailed file created and maintained by a public children services agency (PCSA), private child placing agency (PCPA) or private noncustodial agency (PNA) that documents all aspects of the adoption process related to the adoptive family.

(B) When is the adoptive family case record to be created?

The adoptive family case record is to be created at the time a DCY 01691 "Application for Child Placement" or DCY 01692 "Application for Adoption of a Foster Child or Sibling Group" is received, and is to be maintained, at minimum, during the agency's active involvement with the family.

(C) What is the adoptive family case record to contain?

(1) DCY 01691 or DCY 01692.

(2) Case notes and dictation concerning adoption services.

(3) A copy of the homestudy, homestudy updates, and any completed documents that were identified in or collected pursuant to Chapter 5180:7-1 of the Administrative Code, as applicable.

(4) A copy of the DCY 01530, "Multiple Children/Large Family Assessment," if applicable.

(5) If applicable, a copy of all documentation relating to falsification of an adoptive application or homestudy.

(6) A copy of the denial or approval notification sent to the applicant regarding the adoptive homestudy, updates, or amendments as required by Chapters 5180:2-48 and 5180:7-1 of the Administrative Code.

(7) If applicable, a copy of the documentation explaining the circumstances of any delay in the commencement of the adoptive homestudy beyond the thirty-day requirement in Chapters 5180:2-48 and 5180:7-1 of the Administrative Code.

(8) If applicable, a copy of the documentation explaining the circumstances of any delay in the completion of the adoptive homestudy beyond the one hundred eighty-day requirement in Chapters 5180:2-48 and 5180:7-1 of the Administrative Code.

(9) A signed copy of the child study inventory (CSI) prepared pursuant to rule 5180:2-48-21 of the Administrative Code.

(10) Documentation of information provided to the adoptive family pursuant to rule 5180:2-48-15 of the Administrative Code and the adoptive family's receipt of the information.

(11) A copy of the DCY 01654 "Adoptive Placement Agreement."

(12) A copy of the child's case plan.

(13) A copy of the DCY 01699 "Prefinalization Adoption Assessment Report."

(14) Documentation regarding the activities surrounding the removal of the child from the adoptive placement, if applicable.

(15) Documentation regarding any agency review.

(16) Documentation constituting or referring to a complaint or grievance by the family, if applicable.

(17) Documentation of verbal comments, verbatim, or a detailed description of any other indication made by a prospective adoptive family member living in the household or any other person living in the household, reflecting a negative perspective regarding the race, color or national origin of a child for whom the prospective adoptive family has expressed an interest in adopting. The documentation is to indicate whether those comments were made before or after completion of the cultural diversity training, which is required for all prospective adoptive applicants, if applicable.

(18) Documentation regarding any adoption subsidy application and/or agreement.

(19) Documentation of education and training activities attended by the adoptive applicant/family.

(20) A copy of the DCY 01689, "Documentation of the Placement Decision Making Process.

(21) A copy of the DCY 01609 "Family Permanency Planning Data Summary."

(22) A copy of the DCY 01688 "Individualized Child Assessment" and any report(s) submitted by the licensed professional associated with the DCY 01688, if applicable pursuant to rule 5180:2-48-13 of the Administrative Code.

(23) A copy of the DCY 01690 "Documentation of the Pre-adoptive Staffing and Updates."

(24) A copy of the notification letter to the local PCSA or documentation of the contact related to the initiation of an adoption homestudy, as well as any response received from the PCSA.

(25) A copy of the notification letter to the local PCSA related to the impending placement of an adoptive child.

(D) What is an adoptive child case record?

An adoptive child case record is a detailed file created and maintained by a PCSA or PCPA for a child who is in the permanent custody of the PCSA or PCPA, that documents all aspects of adoption process related to that child.

(E) When is the adoptive child case record to be created?

The adoptive child case record is to be created at the time permanent custody of the child is obtained by the agency and is to be permanently maintained once the child's adoption is finalized.

(F) What is the adoptive child case record to contain?

(1) A copy of the petition to adopt filed in a probate court.

(2) A copy of the child's original birth certificate.

(3) The DCY 01616 "Social and Medical History."

(4) A copy of the CSI.

(5) A copy of the DCY 01699 "Prefinalization Adoption Assessment Report," and a redacted copy of the DCY 01699 pursuant to section 3107.12 of the Revised Code.

(6) A copy of the final decree of adoption or the interlocutory order of adoption.

(7) A copy of the child's lifebook.

(8) A copy of the DCY 01689 "Documentation of the Placement Decision Making Process."

(9) The DCY 01688 "Individualized Child Assessment" and any reports(s) submitted by the licensed professional associated with the DCY 01688, if applicable pursuant to rule 5180:2-48-13 of the Administrative Code.

(10) A copy of the DCY 01610 "Child's Permanency Planning Data Summary."

(11) A copy of all medical or psychological evaluations, school records or other material documented.

(12) A copy of the DCY 01690 "Documentation of the Pre-adoptive Staffing and Updates."

(13) A copy of the DCY 01666 "Permanent Surrender of a Child."

(G) How is the PCSA, PCPA or PNA to maintain the adoptive family and the adoptive child case records?

(1) The PCSA is to maintain case records in Ohio's comprehensive child welfare information system (CCWIS).

(2) The PCPA and PNA are to maintain case records in a consistent and organized manner.

(3) When the agency maintains any required information set forth in this rule in a location other than the case record, it is to be stated in the agency policy or noted in the case record where the information can be found.

(H) How is the PCSA, PCPA or PNA to ensure confidentiality of the adoptive child case record after a final decree or interlocutory order of adoption is issued?

(1) Comply with rule 5180:7-1-18 of the Administrative Code and section 3107.17 of the Revised Code.

(2) Mark the adoptive child case record as confidential and permanently secure it from release or inspection except as follows:

(a) When consent is given by the probate court;

(b) When the PCSA or PCPA needs to examine its own records pertaining to a placement or adoption for official administrative purposes, including to obtain non-identifying information; or

(c) DCY may examine its own records pertaining to a placement or adoption of a child and DCY may inspect the records of a PCSA or PCPA for official administrative, certification and eligibility determination purposes.

(I) What is the PCSA, PCPA or PNA to do with any original documents listed in paragraph (F) of this rule, after an adoption is finalized?

If a PCSA, PCPA or PNA maintained any original documents listed in paragraph (F) of this rule, the agency is to return the original documents to the PCSA or PCPA that held permanent custody of the child prior the adoption finalization.

Last updated July 15, 2026 at 7:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 5103.03, 5153.166
Amplifies: 3107.17, 5180.42, 5103.03, 5153.16
Five Year Review Date: 7/15/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 12/30/1966, 10/1/1986, 4/1/1999