Foster Care Licensing
5101:2-9-26 Living Rooms, Dining Areas and Lounges
FCASMTL 519
Effective Date: May 1, 2023
Most Current Prior Effective Date: November 1, 2013

(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. If a CRC maintains a dining area in each living unit, the dining area table and seating places shall be of sufficient size and number so that all children may eat together comfortably at one time. 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 shall be of sufficient size and number so that at least fifty per cent of all children may eat together comfortably at one time.

(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)A group home is to maintain a dining area, including a dining table and seating places with 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.

Effective: 5/1/2023

Five Year Review (FYR) Dates: 2/9/2023 and 05/01/2028

Certification: CERTIFIED ELECTRONICALLY

Date: 04/21/2023

Promulgated Under: 119.03

Statutory Authority: 5103.03

Rule Amplifies: 5103.02, 5103.03

Prior Effective Dates: 12/30/1966, 10/01/1986, 01/01/1991, 09/01/2002, 11/01/2013, 04/02/2018