No, child labor under 14 is illegal in Washington, D.C., with no exceptions for employment, apprenticeships, or family businesses. The District’s strict statutes align with federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) standards, prohibiting minors under 14 from all forms of paid or unpaid work. Violations trigger penalties under the D.C. Department of Employment Services (DOES) and may involve federal enforcement.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Washington D.C.
- Minimum Age Requirement: D.C. Code § 32-201 prohibits employment of minors under 14 entirely, with no exceptions for light work or family enterprises.
- Work Permit System: Minors aged 14–15 must obtain a work permit from DOES, which mandates parental consent and school verification, but permits are unavailable for those under 14.
- Enforcement & Penalties: DOES and the D.C. Office of the Attorney General enforce violations, imposing fines up to $1,000 per offense and potential criminal charges for repeat offenders. Federal FLSA penalties may also apply.
Local oversight includes DOES’s 2026 initiative to audit high-risk industries (e.g., hospitality, retail) for underage labor, following a 2024 uptick in reported violations. Employers must verify age via birth certificates or government IDs before hiring, as D.C. law requires documentation retention for three years. Non-compliance risks civil lawsuits and revocation of business licenses.