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Aurora, CO Public Health Rules: Syringe Disposal (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing provision
Aurora City Code § 94-221(a)
Base paraphernalia fine
Up to $100
Exchange program authority
C.R.S. § 25-1-520
Protection trigger
Disclose needle before search
Exemption proof
Program ID card to officer

Summary

Aurora shields syringe-exchange participants and people who disclose a needle before a search from paraphernalia charges, while unregistered possession still risks a $100 fine.

It shall not be a violation of section 94-221(a) or 94-222(c) for a person to possess a hypodermic needle, syringe or similar device if such person is carrying, and presents to a peace officer, an identification card certifying that he or she is participating as an employee, volunteer or participant in an approved syringe exchange program created pursuant to C.R.S. § 25-1-520.

Source: Colorado CDPHEView official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-30, passed June 22, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Aurora's paraphernalia ordinance generally makes possessing equipment usable for drug consumption a $100 fine, but Sec. 94-221(a) carves out hypodermic needles and syringes three ways: a person who tells an officer or EMT about a needle before a search or treatment can't be arrested, cited, or charged for it; and anyone carrying ID certifying they're an employee, volunteer, or participant in a state-authorized syringe exchange program is exempt outright. The city doesn't operate the exchange program itself, it recognizes ones created under state law.

Violations & Fines

General drug-paraphernalia possession under Sec. 94-221(a) is punishable by a fine of up to $100; the needle/syringe exemptions remove liability entirely when the disclosure or ID conditions are met.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be cited for carrying a used syringe in Aurora?
Not if you tell the officer or EMT about it before a search, or show ID showing you're in a state-authorized syringe exchange program, per Sec. 94-221(a).
Does Aurora run its own needle-exchange program?
No. The city code recognizes programs authorized under Colorado's syringe exchange statute, C.R.S. § 25-1-520, rather than operating its own.

Sources & Official References

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All Aurora rules

Compare Aurora to another location·View the Colorado public health rules overview

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