Youth Camp Program
The Texas Department of State Health Services is the principal authority on matters relating to health and safety conditions at youth camps in Texas. All youth camps must obtain a license prior to operating. Any youth camp may be inspected during operation to determine compliance with the Youth Camp Safety and Health Act and the Youth Camp Rules.
Effective January 9, 2023, all Youth Camp Programs Initial and Renewals are required to be submitted online through the Regulatory Services Online Licensing System. You will need to create an account to submit your application online. For more information, visit our website at dshs.texas.gov/youthcamp
To start Application, visit our website vo.ras.dshs.state.tx.us
- New User must create a new online account. Log in with the one-time password emailed to you to access online services. (Make sure to change password after successfully created an account)
- To apply for New License application:
- Choose the board Youth Camp Program
- Select “Initial Youth Camp License”, then click select
- Follow the steps and enter all information required
- Provide all Camp Information (open and close dates, on site contact, etc.)
- Attach the Youth Camp Pre-licensing Inspection Questionnaire
- Review application summary, then submit
- After submission it will ask to pay now or later
- Once paid, application will be in queue for processing
- To Renew existing License:
- Under Additional Activities, select “Add Licenses to Registration”
- Select Yes, then click next
- Choose the board Youth Camps Program
- Choose license type Renew Youth Camp License, then click next
- Enter:
- License Number
- Organization (Business) Name
- Physical business location’s Zip code
- Finish security captcha questions, then click next
- Confirm if the information is correct, then hit next
- If you receive an Error message, email your license information and user ID to YouthCamps.Reg@dshs.texas.gov
- Once Completed it will send you back to the main menu, and you should see a renewal listed under “It is time to Renew!”
- Select the license number to start the process of application.
- Follow the steps and enter all information required
- Review application summary, then submit
- Once paid application will be in queue for processing
- If there are changes in physical location, DBA, and owner, an initial application will be required
- Once paid application will be in queue for processing
If you have any questions or concerns, email us at YouthCamps.Reg@dshs.texas.gov.
Coronavirus Information can be found at the following link: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The following information is provided for youth camp operators to inform summer youth camp operations related to COVID-19. In addition to the information below, you can reach out to your local government officials, community leaders, and local public health officials for additional guidance.
- Report confirmed COVID-19 cases to your Texas county public health officials.
- FDA - FoodSafety and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) - Industry Guidance
- CDC Guidance for Activities and Gatherings - 12/09/2021
Contact Information
For Questions about Regulations and Requirements
Email: Public Health and Sanitation
Phone: 512-834-6753
For Questions Regarding Licensing
Email: Environmental and Sanitation Business Filing and Verification Unit
Phone: 512-834-6600
Mailing and physical addresses may be found on the contact page.