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Solar Energy

Solar Energy in Aurora, CO: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Aurora or are thinking about moving there, solar energy 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 solar energy, and some of them might surprise you.

Panel Permits

Aurora requires a building permit issued to a licensed residential or commercial building contractor for solar panel installations, and the Unified Development Ordinance sets siting rules: rooftop panels may exceed the height limit by 18 inches, but front-yard placement is barred.

Key details: Permit required: Licensed residential or commercial building contractor. Setback rule: Exempt side/rear; barred from front setback. Height allowance: Rooftop panels up to 18 inches over limit. Glare rule: Concentrator systems must avoid neighbor glare. Governing law: UDO § 146-4.2.4; City Code § 22-91.

Installing or altering a solar system without the required building permit is a Code violation under § 1-13, punishable by up to a $2,650 fine, 364 days in jail, or both: each day is a separate offense.

HOA Restrictions

Colorado CRS 38-30-168 preempts HOAs from prohibiting solar panels; HOAs may impose reasonable aesthetic guidelines but cannot effectively ban installations.

Key details: State Law: CRS 38-30-168. Cost Limit: 10% or $1,500. Efficiency Limit: 10% reduction max. HOA Response: 60 days.

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

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Aurora gives residents more flexibility on hoa restrictions.

The Bottom Line

Aurora's solar energy 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.

These rules come from Aurora's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.