Children's Camps

In New York State, when a children's program qualifies as a camp, it must have a state, city, or county health department permit to operate legally and must operate in compliance with Subpart 7-2 of the State Sanitary Code requirements. A permit is issued only when the camp is in compliance with the state's health regulations.

Children's camps must be inspected twice yearly by a health department representative. At least one inspection must be made during the time the camp is in operation. Each camp is checked to make sure that the physical facilities are safe and that supervision is adequate.

Not all summer programs for children qualify as children's camps. Parents are encouraged to ask the camp director if the camp has a permit from their local health department. Contact the local health department having jurisdiction in the city or county that the camp is located, if you have questions.

• Regulations
• Fact Sheets, Brochures and Other Information
• Required Certifications
• Managing Illness in Children's Camps
• Bats in Children's Camps
• Forms
• Incident Summary Reports
• State Camp Safety Advisory Council Meeting Minutes
• For More Information

For general information about children's camps, see the Department's web pages, How to Obtain a Permit to Operate a Children's Camp and Children's Camps in New York State.