🏠 How to Open an Assisted Living Facility in Alaska

Starting an assisted living facility in Alaska is a rewarding opportunity to provide quality care for seniors and individuals who need support with daily living. However, the process requires careful planning, proper licensing, and compliance with the Alaska Department of Health (DOH) regulations.

This guide walks you through every step — from planning your business to becoming fully licensed.

1. Understand Alaska’s Assisted Living Regulations

Assisted living homes in Alaska are licensed and regulated by the Department of Health, under the Residential Licensing Section.

An assisted living home provides housing, meals, and assistance with daily activities for three or more adults who cannot live independently but do not require full-time medical care.

Before you start, review the Alaska Administrative Code (7 AAC 75), which outlines the requirements for assisted living homes, including staffing, resident care, and facility operations.

2. Develop a Solid Business Plan

A clear business plan helps you define your vision, secure funding, and stay organized throughout the licensing process. Your plan should include:

• Mission and goals of your facility

• Target population (e.g., seniors, memory care, or adults with disabilities)

• Budget and financial plan

• Staffing structure and training plan

• Marketing and admission strategies

Having a well-prepared plan can also help when applying for loans or grants.

3. Choose the Right Location

Your facility’s location must comply with local zoning laws, fire safety, and building codes.

Before purchasing or leasing a property, contact your local planning and zoning department to ensure the location is approved for residential care use.

The facility should offer:

• Private or shared rooms

• Accessible bathrooms and common areas

• Fire alarms and emergency exits that meet state safety standards

4. Complete Administrator Requirements

Every assisted living home in Alaska must have a qualified administrator responsible for daily operations, staff supervision, and compliance.

According to 7 AAC 75.230, an administrator must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Have a high school diploma or GED

• Pass a criminal background check

• Complete administrator training that covers regulations, resident rights, safety, and recordkeeping

If you plan to serve 10 or more residents, Alaska may require additional management qualifications or experience.

5. Prepare Your Policies and Procedures

Before applying for a license, you must prepare a policy and procedure manual that outlines how your facility will operate. This should include:

• Admission and discharge policies

• Medication management

• Resident rights and grievance process

• Staff training requirements

• Fire and emergency procedures

• Recordkeeping and confidentiality practices

Tip: ALF Consultants can help you create a customized policy manual that meets Alaska’s licensing standards.

6. Submit Your Application for Licensure

Once your facility, administrator, and policies are ready, you can submit an application to the Alaska Department of Health, Residential Licensing Section.

Your application package should include:

• Completed application form

• Floor plan and fire marshal approval

• Administrator qualifications and background check

• Policy and procedure manual

• Application fee

After submission, a state licensing surveyor will schedule an on-site inspection to ensure your facility meets all safety and care standards.

7. Pass the On-Site Inspection

During the inspection, state officials will review:

• Resident rooms and common areas

• Staff training and records

• Emergency and fire safety systems

• Medication storage and documentation

If your facility meets all requirements, you’ll receive your Assisted Living Home License — allowing you to begin accepting residents.

8. Maintain Compliance After Licensing

Once licensed, you must maintain compliance through:

• Annual inspections

• Continuing education for staff and administrators

• Proper recordkeeping and reporting

• Adhering to all resident rights and care standards

Regular updates to your policies and staff training will help avoid violations or penalties.

🌟 Partner with ALF Consultants

Opening an assisted living facility in Alaska can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone.

ALF Consultants provides expert guidance through every step:

• Licensing application support

• Policy and procedure manual preparation

• Administrator and staff training

• Marketing and occupancy support

Let us help you bring your assisted living vision to life — the right way, the first time.