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Summer, Day, Overnight, Traveling or Municipal Camps for Children

Operating & Renewing

Operating Requirements

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    For important operating information, read the Frequently Asked Questions for summer camps.

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      All operators should review the NYC Health Code Article 48 to understand the rules for operating a summer camp and how to comply.

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        New camp directors are required to attend a Camp Director's Orientation provided by the Department. The sessions are about 2 hours long and there is no fee to register.

        Note: You can apply for the camp permit even if the camp director has not yet attended the orientation. 


        If your camp offers aquatics activities, new aquatics directors must attend an Aquatics Director's Orientation session. The session is about an hour long and there is no fee to register. 

        Everyone must register themselves, using their own e-mail address. To register for either orientation, visit DOHMH Online Service Registration

        - Select "Group Child Care and Summer Camp Orientation Sessions" and click “continue” at the bottom of the screen.
        - Complete all the steps and be sure to enter your information carefully and correctly. 
        - You will receive an automated e-mail confirmation after successfully registering 
        - The orientation is offered in a webinar format and you will receive an invitation the day before the webinar.
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          All new permit and permit renewal applications must be submitted to the NYC Department of Health at least 90 days before the date the camp starts.

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            Applying for a NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene permit does not satisfy the regulatory requirements of other City and State Agencies. It is the business owner's responsibility to apply for all other permits, licenses, and authorizations required by other City and State Agencies. Failure to comply with all relevant regulations, including those under the jurisdiction of other Agencies, may result in the suspension of Department of Health and Mental Hygiene permits until proof of compliance is provided.

            • Ready to Renew?

              Steps to renew online:

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              Summer camp permits may only be renewed online.


              Returning camps can renew their permit by submitting their application (in pd format) via email to their respective borough office contact or to campinfo@health.nyc.gov. Attach each document separately to the same email, and be sure to include your camp name, site address, borough, and your 8-digit Record ID number in the subject line. For example, “STEM Kids Camp, 125 Worth Street, Manhattan, 12345678”.

              Attach the following documents and forms: 


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                Aquatics Staff Qualifications (required if camp will provide swimming, boating, or aquatic theme park services)

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                  Summer camps that are required to pay the $200 fee may submit payment through the online licensing system by logging in at www.nyc.gov/dohmhpermits. If you will be using a newly registered account, you may request a PIN to “PIN Link/Relink” and access the existing camp record. Do not create a new camp record. If you need your PIN, you can request it by completing an online PIN Request Form below or by calling 311.

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                    You will not be permitted to renew a permit if you have outstanding fines. You must pay fines online before renewing.  You can pay your fines by logging in at www.nyc.gov/dohmhpermits. If you will be using a newly registered account, you may request a PIN to “PIN Link/Relink” and access the existing camp record. Do not create a new camp record. If you need your PIN, you can request it by completing an online PIN Request Form or by calling 311