Aurora Building Safety: Childcare Center Rules Rules (2026)

Childcare centers in Aurora are classified as I-4 institutional or E educational occupancies depending on age and number of children, triggering enhanced building and fire requirements under Chapter 22 and the adopted International Building Code. Sprinkler systems, smoke detection, two means of egress, panic hardware on assembly-sized rooms, and exit signage are required. Aurora Fire Rescue inspects before licensing approval and annually thereafter. The Colorado Department of Early Childhood handles state-level licensing including ratios and curriculum. Family childcare homes have less intensive building rules but still require smoke detectors, working fire extinguishers, and approved egress windows in any sleeping rooms used by children.