Aurora's Property Maintenance: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles property maintenance a little differently. In Aurora, Colorado, there are 5 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Property Blight
Aurora's Neighborhood Services enforces blight rules covering junk vehicles, tall weeds, debris, peeling paint, and broken windows; violators face escalating fines and abatement.
Key details: Weed Height: 6 inches max. Junk Vehicles: Prohibited in view. Graffiti: Remove within 7 days. Fines: 100-500+ per day.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://www.auroragov.org/residents/neighborhood_services) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Compared to other cities, Aurora takes a harder line on property blight. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Trash Bin Storage
Trash and recycling carts must be stored out of public view except on collection day; carts may be placed at the curb after 6 PM the day before pickup.
Key details: Storage: Behind front building line. Earliest Out: 6 PM day before. Return: End of pickup day. Fine: Up to 100.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://www.auroragov.org/residents/trash_recycling) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Snow & Sidewalk Clearing
Aurora property owners must clear snow from adjacent public sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall ends under City Code Section 138-151.
Key details: Deadline: 24 hours post-snow. Width: Full sidewalk. First Fine: 150. Help: Snow Angels program.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://library.municode.com/co/aurora) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Garage Sale Rules
Aurora permits residential garage sales without a permit, limited to 3 sales per calendar year per address, each lasting no more than 3 consecutive days.
Key details: Annual Limit: 3 sales per year. Duration: 3 days each. Hours: Daylight only. Permit: Not required.
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/tax_licensing) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
The rules around garage sale rules in Aurora lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.
Vacant Lot Maintenance
Vacant lots must be kept free of weeds over 6 inches, trash, and debris; owners are responsible for maintenance regardless of residency or use.
Key details: Weed Limit: 6 inches. Cure Period: 10 days. Admin Fee: 50% added. Security: Vacant buildings sealed.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Aurora code enforcement](https://library.municode.com/co/aurora) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
The Bottom Line
Aurora's property maintenance 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.
This guide is based on Aurora's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.