How to Start a Group Home in Virginia: A Complete Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide

Starting a group home in Virginia isn’t just about building a business — it’s about building a future for people who need it most.

Whether you’re hoping to support adults with developmental disabilities, youth in foster care, or individuals navigating mental health challenges, opening a group home gives you the chance to create more than just a place to live — it’s a real opportunity to help people thrive in a safe, supportive environment.

If you’re thinking about taking this important step, it’s crucial to understand the legal, financial, and operational requirements involved.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from idea to full licensure — with information designed specifically for group homes in Virginia.

What Is a Group Home in Virginia?

In Virginia, a group home is a licensed residential setting where individuals live together and receive around-the-clock supervision, personal care, support with building life skills, and opportunities for community integration.

Depending on who you plan to serve, your group home will fall under one of a few categories:

• Developmental Disabilities (DD) Group Home
• Mental Health Residential Facility
• Youth Residential Services

Each of these types is licensed and monitored by either the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) or the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS), depending on your target population.

What’s the Best Group Home Type to Choose?

One of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is choosing the type of group home you want to open — and understanding how Virginia classifies services as either Priority or Non-Priority can make a big difference in your licensing timeline.

Priority Services are programs that address urgent needs, like homes for individuals with significant developmental disabilities or people at risk of institutionalization. If you choose a Priority Service, you’ll need to have your property secured and your Certificate of Occupancy ready when you apply — but the reward is faster processing, often within 90 days.

Non-Priority Services, on the other hand, are still important, but aren’t considered urgent. You don't need to have your property ready at the time of applying, but the wait time can be long — often one to two years before your application even gets reviewed.

If you’re serious about getting your group home open quickly, targeting a Priority Service is highly recommended.

Virginia’s DBHDS publishes an official Priority Ranking List showing exactly which services qualify — you can search for licensing information and related documents on the DBHDS Licensing page.

Taking the time to understand these categories now will save you time, money, and frustration later.

Step-by-Step Process to Start a Group Home in Virginia

1. Define Your Mission, Vision, and Target Population

First things first: who do you want to serve, and why?

Whether it’s adults with developmental disabilities, youth in foster care, or individuals seeking mental health support, being crystal clear about your mission will guide every decision you make — from licensing, to services offered, to how you build your team.

Think of it as laying the foundation for everything that follows.

2. Form Your Legal Business Entity

Next, you’ll need to legally form your organization.

Most group homes are set up as Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) or nonprofit corporations. You’ll register your entity with the Virginia State Corporation Commission and apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) through the IRS website.

It’s also essential to check local zoning laws — group homes are subject to city and county regulations, and not every residential area permits them without approval.

3. Develop a Solid Business and Operational Plan

Your business plan is the blueprint for your group home’s success.

It should clearly explain:

• The services you’ll offer
• Your staffing structure and hiring plan
• Your financial projections (start-up costs, revenue sources, ongoing expenses)
• A detailed policies and procedures manual
• Your marketing and referral strategies

Not only will you need this for licensure, but it’s also critical if you want to secure funding or community partnerships later on.

4. Secure a Suitable Property

Finding the right home is about much more than curb appeal.

You’ll need a property that complies with zoning rules and passes strict health, safety, and accessibility inspections. Requirements include minimum square footage per resident, appropriate bedroom setups, working fire alarms and sprinkler systems, and features that make the home accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Before you can be licensed, your property must pass inspections from local fire marshals, building inspectors, and sometimes health departments.

5. Submit Your Licensing Application

Once your entity is registered, your business plan is polished, and your property is secured, it’s time to submit your application to DBHDS or DSS (depending on the population served).

Your application will include things like:

• Your business registration documents
• A program narrative explaining your services
• Your staffing and training plans
• Your property’s floor plans
• Your full policies and procedures manual

A licensing specialist will review your materials to ensure everything is complete before moving you forward to inspection.

6. Recruit and Train Your Staff

Your team is the heart of your group home.

You’ll need to hire compassionate, qualified individuals like Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), Residential Managers, and possibly Qualified Mental Health Professionals (QMHPs) or Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professionals (QIDPs), depending on your resident population.

Training is mandatory and covers CPR/First Aid, human rights protections, medication administration (if needed), person-centered planning, and crisis prevention or behavioral interventions. Strong, well-trained staff are critical not just for providing great care — but also for passing your final licensing inspection.

7. Prepare for Inspections and Final Approval

Before you can open your doors, your group home will undergo multiple inspections.

Expect a thorough review by DBHDS or DSS, along with safety checks by local authorities like fire marshals and health officials. Inspectors will be looking closely to ensure that your home is safe, your policies are being followed, your documentation is organized, and your residents' rights and needs will be fully protected.

Once you pass your inspections, congratulations — you’ll be granted your group home license and can begin accepting residents!

Certificate of Need (CON) — Not Required for Virginia Group Homes

Good news: Virginia does not require a Certificate of Need (CON) for opening a group home.

This removes a big layer of complexity that healthcare facilities like hospitals and nursing homes must deal with.

However, the Priority vs. Non-Priority designation you choose will still affect how fast (or slowly) your application moves through the system — so make sure you plan carefully upfront.

Final Thoughts

Opening a group home in Virginia is a major project — but it’s also one of the most meaningful things you can do.

With the right planning, patience, and attention to detail, you’ll be creating a place where individuals are respected, supported, and given the chance to live more independently.

Surround yourself with the right partners: DBHDS or DSS representatives, zoning officials, and consultants who understand the process inside and out.

Your dedication today will build safe, supportive homes for tomorrow.

Start strong. Stay compliant. And most importantly — never lose sight of the lives you’re about to change.

Book a Free Consultation Today

If you are serious about starting your group home journey and want expert guidance, we are here to support you.

Discuss the steps, requirements, and necessary documentation with one of our licensing experts at CarePolicy.US. We can help you understand the process, avoid common mistakes, and ensure a smoother path to licensure.

👉 Book your free consultation today!

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