How Aurora Handles Outdoor Lighting: A Practical Guide

Aurora maintains 198 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with outdoor lighting. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Aurora falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Light Trespass

Aurora prohibits outdoor lighting that causes significant glare or spills substantial illumination onto neighboring residential properties under nuisance provisions.

Key details: Property Line Limit: 0.2 foot-candles. Common Issue: Security floodlights. Fix: Shield, re-aim, dim. Fine Range: 50-500.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://www.auroragov.org/) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Dark Sky Rules

Aurora requires outdoor lighting to be fully shielded and directed downward for new commercial and multi-family projects; residential lighting has fewer restrictions.

Key details: New Commercial: Full cutoff required. Color Temp: 3000K max parking. Direction: Downward only. Residential: Fewer limits.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://www.auroragov.org/business_services/planning_development_services) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

The Bottom Line

Aurora's outdoor lighting rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Aurora is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Aurora can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.