Austin childcare providers planning a new facility or expanding an existing program can apply for relief from eligible city development fees, with waivers worth up to $20,000 depending on the project and available funding.
Austin Public Health highlighted the application opportunity in its October 16 community newsletter. The city's program page lists an October 5, 2026 opening for the current application cycle and says applications are accepted during the fiscal year while funds remain available.
What the waiver covers
The program is intended to help increase childcare capacity within Austin. It covers qualifying fees associated with conditional-use permits, new childcare construction and the expansion or qualifying improvement of existing high-quality programs.
An approved waiver reduces an eligible city bill. Providers remain responsible for fees outside their award, and fees already paid cannot be reimbursed. The maximum award is conditional on meeting the relevant requirements; applicants should check the criteria for their project.
What providers need before applying
The city's application instructions tell providers to begin their project with Austin Development Services and obtain an invoice before completing the fee-waiver application. The invoice is required for every application type.
Other documents depend on the proposal and can include site plans, a Texas childcare license or registration, and proof of a high-quality childcare designation. The application sets out separate criteria and award tiers for each project type.
For an existing high-quality program seeking expansion support, the criteria include licensing or registration, location within an Austin City Council district and serving children with Workforce Solutions Capital Area childcare scholarships.
Funding and timing
The application says requests are considered on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted. When funds run low, staff may prioritize applications meeting more eligibility criteria. Providers can seek one waiver type per location in each city fiscal year, which runs October 1 through September 30.
Full eligibility information and links to English and Spanish applications are available on the City of Austin Childcare Fee Waiver Program page.
