Wisconsin Administrative Code Department of Children and Families
Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF)
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the state agency in Wisconsin responsible for programs and services that support the safety, well-being, and economic security of children, families, and communities. Its rules, programs, and procedures are established in the Wisconsin Administrative Code.
Primary Responsibilities
Child Welfare and Protection
Oversees child protective services and foster care programs.
Licenses child care centers, group homes, and residential facilities.
Ensures safety and proper treatment of children in care.
Family Support and Economic Assistance
Administers programs like child care subsidies, food assistance (SNAP), and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
Provides case management and family support services.
Youth and Family Services
Supervises adoption services and kinship care programs.
Provides juvenile justice programs and intervention services for at-risk youth.
Rulemaking and Licensing
Establishes licensing standards for childcare providers, foster homes, and residential facilities.
Enforces compliance with safety, health, and staffing regulations.
Authority Source
Statutory authority: DCF derives authority from Wisconsin Statutes Chapters 46, 48, 49, and 251, which cover child welfare, economic support, and protective services.
Administrative rules: DCF regulations are codified in Chapters DCF 50–250 (covering licensing, economic support, child care, and protective services).
Key Administrative Code Provisions
DCF 50–59: Licensing and standards for child care centers and group homes.
DCF 201–203: Protective services and foster care regulations.
DCF 150–156: Economic support programs and eligibility requirements.
DCF 250: Juvenile justice and youth services programs.
Board and Oversight
DCF is led by a Secretary appointed by the Governor.
Some programs involve advisory councils or boards that review policy and make recommendations.
Enforcement and compliance are carried out through licensing inspections, audits, and monitoring.
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