Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules in Aurora, CO: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Aurora or are thinking about moving there, sidewalk & pedestrian rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Aurora has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of sidewalk & pedestrian rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Encroachment Permits

Anyone doing work in an Aurora, Colorado public right-of-way, including a homeowner without a contractor, must get a permit from the Director of Public Works first.

Key details: Permit issuer: Director of Public Works. Applies to: Contractors and homeowners alike. No-permit penalty: Inspection fee doubled. Notice required: 24 hours before construction starts. Warranty period: One year from acceptance.

Work done in the right-of-way without a permit doubles the inspection fee once discovered, per § 126-133(b); permanent structures placed in a right-of-way or easement without City approval violate UDO § 146-4.3.11.E.

Sidewalk Repair

Aurora property owners must keep abutting public sidewalks clear of snow, ice, litter, and slip hazards like algae, but City Code § 114-35(b) expressly says they owe no duty to repair or reconstruct the sidewalk itself.

Key details: Snow/ice removal deadline: 24 hours after snowfall. First offense (single-family): $100 plus court costs. First offense (other property): $200 plus court costs. Structural repair duty: Not imposed on abutting owner. Enforcing agency: Neighborhood Services Department.

Failure to clear snow/ice within 24 hours of a snowfall is an unlawful nuisance: up to $100 (first offense) and $200 (second) for single-family property, or $200/$400 for multi-family and nonresidential property, plus court costs.

The Bottom Line

Aurora's sidewalk & pedestrian rules 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.