Hiring minors is a common practice, especially in industries like retail, food service, and entertainment. While having a job can teach responsibility and provide valuable experience, there are laws in place to make sure young workers aren’t exploited or put in harm’s way. Pennsylvania has strict child labor laws that regulate when, where, and how long minors can work. Employers who fail to follow these laws could face serious penalties, including fines and legal action.

Understanding these laws is important for both businesses and families. Whether you’re an employer looking to hire young workers or a parent making sure your child’s job follows legal guidelines, knowing the rules can help prevent issues. Below, we break down Pennsylvania’s child labor laws, covering work permits, hour restrictions, job limitations, and penalties for violations.

Consult with a PA employment law attorney if you have questions.

Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Act

The Pennsylvania Child Labor Act (CLA) is the state law that governs the employment of minors under 18. It works alongside the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) at the federal level to ensure safe and fair working conditions for young employees. These laws are in place to prevent excessive work hours, hazardous job assignments, and other workplace risks for minors.

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry enforces these laws by monitoring employers, conducting investigations, and handling complaints. Businesses that fail to comply can face financial penalties and restrictions on hiring minors in the future.

Work Permit Requirements for Minors

If a minor between the ages of 14 and 17 wants to work in Pennsylvania, they must first get a work permit from their school district. This process ensures that young workers are aware of their rights and that their job won’t interfere with their education. To obtain a work permit, minors need:

• A completed application, available from their school district
• Proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport
• Written permission from a parent or legal guardian

Children under 14 generally cannot work, with a few exceptions, such as performing in entertainment, delivering newspapers, or working on a family farm.

Work Hour Limits for Minors

Pennsylvania law sets limits on how many hours minors can work, especially during the school year. These rules help ensure that young workers have enough time for school, rest, and extracurricular activities.

For Minors Aged 14-15:

• School Year:
  • Up to 3 hours per school day
  • No more than 18 hours per week
  • Work allowed only between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM
• Summer (June 1 – Labor Day):
  • Up to 8 hours per day
  • No more than 40 hours per week
  • Work allowed between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM

For Minors Aged 16-17:

• School Year:
  • Up to 8 hours per day
  • No more than 28 hours per week
  • Work allowed between 6:00 AM and 12:00 AM on school nights
• Summer & Holidays:
  • Up to 10 hours per day
  • No more than 48 hours per week

These rules are designed to keep minors from being overworked while allowing them to gain valuable job experience.

Jobs That Minors Are Not Allowed to Do

Some jobs are too dangerous for minors, and Pennsylvania law strictly prohibits young workers from working in high-risk industries.

Jobs Minors Under 18 Cannot Perform:

• Operating heavy machinery, such as forklifts or industrial saws
• Working in mines, quarries, or tunnels
• Handling explosives or highly flammable materials
• Roofing or construction work involving high elevations
• Operating motor vehicles (with a few exceptions, such as limited roles in golf courses)

Minors under 16 face even stricter restrictions, including bans on working in manufacturing, construction, and any job that involves serving alcohol.

Break and Rest Period Requirements

Pennsylvania law also requires employers to provide adequate breaks for minors to prevent fatigue and ensure they stay focused on their tasks.

• Any minor working more than 5 consecutive hours must receive a 30-minute break.
• Employers must ensure that work schedules do not interfere with a minor’s school attendance or well-being.

Penalties for Violating Child Labor Laws

Employers who don’t follow Pennsylvania’s child labor laws can face serious consequences. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry enforces these rules and can issue fines, conduct workplace inspections, and take legal action if necessary.

Consequences of Violating Child Labor Laws:

• Fines – Employers may be fined up to $10,000 per violation.
• Legal Action – Repeated or serious violations could result in lawsuits or criminal charges.
• Employment Restrictions – Businesses that break the law may lose the ability to hire minors in the future.

To avoid legal trouble, employers should stay informed about child labor laws and follow all state and federal regulations.

Call Brandon J. Broderick for Legal Help

Understanding Pennsylvania’s child labor laws is important for employers and families alike. If you’re an employer unsure about compliance or a parent concerned about a minor’s work conditions, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, is here to help. Our team has extensive experience in employment law and can provide the guidance you need.

If you have questions about child labor laws or need legal representation, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation.