Beginning July 1, 2025, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) will enforce significant changes to the processing of all facility licensing applications and written notices submitted to its Centralized Applications Branch (CAB). Under this updated policy, each application or notification—whether for new licenses, changes in ownership, or other updates—must be accompanied by a non-refundable application fee, as required by the California Health and Safety Code Section 1266.
The specific fees associated with each application type will be published following the signing of the California State Budget Act.
Key Policy Changes to Know:
Mandatory Application Fee:
Every licensing application and formal notification must include the required application fee. Applications submitted without payment will not be processed.
Automatic Denial of Incomplete Applications:
CDPH will no longer mark applications as “incomplete.” Instead, any application that lacks necessary documentation or payment will be automatically denied and closed.
New Prescreening Protocol:
CDPH will now implement a structured prescreening stage for all application packets. This process ensures that submitted applications include all mandatory forms, supporting documents, and the application fee. If any component is missing, CAB will send a one-time prescreen notice identifying the deficiencies and providing a deadline for corrections.
Failure to meet the prescreen requirements by the specified date will result in denial, and applicants must restart the process by submitting a new application and fee.
Comprehensive Application Review:
Once an application passes the prescreening stage, it will undergo a full content review. If CAB identifies further issues or missing information during this phase, a one-time correction notice will be issued, along with a correction deadline.
Applications will continue to be processed if timely corrections are submitted. However, failing to respond within the correction period will lead to denial.
Appeal and Resubmission Options:
Applicants who receive a denial notice may either file an appeal through CDPH’s appeal process or opt to resubmit a brand-new application packet that includes all required documentation and fees. CDPH local district offices will be notified of all approvals and denials to ensure regulatory alignment.
Tips for a Successful Application Submission:
To avoid delays or denials, applicants are urged to:
Submit complete application packets.
Include all required documentation and forms.
Await notification of the correct application fee and submit payment promptly.
All applications are reviewed in the order received, so timely and accurate submission is essential.
Need Help with Licensing Applications in California?
HealthBridge is happy to assist with any licensing application changes or submissions related to home health, hospice, or any other facility type in California. Our team is ready to guide you through the process and ensure compliance with the latest CDPH requirements.
