Aurora requires outdoor lighting to be fully shielded and directed downward for new commercial and multi-family projects; residential lighting has fewer restrictions.
Aurora zoning code requires new commercial, industrial, and multi-family outdoor lighting to be fully shielded (cutoff fixtures) with no direct upward illumination. Color temperature for parking area lighting should not exceed 3000K. Lighting must be directed onto the site and not spill onto adjacent properties or public rights-of-way. Residential single-family properties have fewer restrictions but must still avoid creating nuisances (light trespass). Aurora is not a formal Dark Sky community, but the Denver metro area is working toward reducing light pollution. Flagpole and security lighting must still be shielded to prevent glare.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Aurora code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Aurora, CO
Aurora imposes no general restriction on year-round lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays on private residential property. The Sign Code in UDO 146...
Aurora, CO
Aurora has no ordinance specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, motor noise, and lighting hours are not capped by the city for...
Aurora, CO
Aurora has no ordinance limiting the duration, brightness, or hours of residential holiday lighting on private property. The Aurora UDO Section 146-4.9 (Exte...
Aurora, CO
An outdoor kitchen in Aurora typically requires a building permit when it exceeds 120 sq ft, includes a roof or pergola, or is attached to the house. Gas lin...
Aurora, CO
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Aurora, CO
Aurora adopts the 2021 International Fire Code under Aurora City Code Chapter 66 (Fire Prevention and Protection). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal burners, pr...
See how Aurora's dark sky rules rules stack up against other locations.
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