Aurora prohibits aggressive panhandling that involves threats, physical contact, or blocking pedestrians, while passive solicitation remains protected speech under federal precedent and Colorado constitutional law.
Aurora City Code Chapter 78 (Offenses and Conduct) restricts aggressive panhandling, defined to include unwanted physical contact, following a person after refusal, blocking pedestrian or vehicle paths, or making threats. Federal courts have struck down broad bans on peaceful solicitation, so Aurora targets behavior rather than speech. Time, place, and manner restrictions apply near ATMs, transit stops, and outdoor dining areas. Aurora Police Department typically issues warnings before citations. Service-resistant homelessness is referred to Aurora Mental Health Center and the Aurora Day Resource Center. Civil-rights groups monitor enforcement after similar Denver ordinances faced challenges.
Touching, threatening, or blocking a person while soliciting; soliciting near ATMs or after dark in restricted zones can result in citations or, with prior warnings, misdemeanor charges.
See how Aurora's aggressive panhandling rules stack up against other locations.
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