Appeal Sign Removal Orders in Aurora, Colorado

Signs and Advertising Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 09, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Aurora, Colorado property owners sometimes receive sign removal orders for unpermitted, abandoned, or prohibited signs. This guide explains how Aurora enforces sign rules, what to expect after a removal order, how to appeal, and practical steps to resolve disputes. It covers enforcement routes, likely sanctions, common defences like permits or temporary variances, and where to find official forms and contacts.

Begin promptly: appeals and compliance windows are often short.

Understanding sign removal orders

Sign removal orders are administrative directives from the City to remove, repair, or permit signs that do not comply with the municipal code or land development regulations. Orders may follow inspections, complaints, or permit reviews. The controlling regulations for signs appear in the City of Aurora municipal code and land development regulations; check the official code for the definitive rule text Aurora Municipal Code[1].

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and related enforcement procedures control penalties, inspections, and appeal routes. Where the code or department pages do not list exact amounts or escalation, this guide notes that fact and points to the controlling official source.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited municipal code page; see the code for section-specific fines and schedules.[1]
  • Escalation: the code does not list a universal per-day escalation amount for sign violations on the main code page; escalation may be described in specific sections or enforcement orders (not specified on the cited page).[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, abatement at owner expense, administrative orders, civil actions, and possible court enforcement are used per the municipal code.[1]
  • Enforcer and inspections: Code Enforcement and the City Planning/Building divisions enforce sign rules; use the City of Aurora Code Enforcement contact page to report or ask about orders.Contact Code Enforcement[2]
  • Appeals and review: the municipal code outlines appeal routes (administrative review or municipal hearings); specific time limits and processes should be confirmed in the controlling ordinance text (not specified on the cited page).[1]
  • Defences and discretion: common defences include proof of a valid permit, imminent hazard correction, grandfathered signs, or temporary permit/variance; the city retains discretion subject to the code.
If you receive an order, read deadlines carefully and act before any removal or fine deadlines.

Applications & Forms

Permits, appeals, or variance requests may require specific forms administered by Planning or Building divisions. The municipal code and department pages list which applications apply; if no form number is published for a particular appeal type, use the department contact to request the correct application. The City posts sign permit and building permit applications on Planning or Building department pages.[2]

Common violations and typical outcomes

  • Unpermitted commercial signs - often subject to removal orders and possible fines.
  • Signs in the public right-of-way - typically ordered removed quickly and may incur abatement costs.
  • Billboard or large structure noncompliance - may trigger administrative actions and court enforcement.
Documentation is crucial: photos, permits, and dated records help appeals.

Action steps for property owners

  • Read the removal order and note deadlines.
  • Gather permits and photos that support compliance or a reasonable excuse.
  • File an appeal or administrative review as outlined in the order or the municipal code.
  • If necessary, apply for a permit or variance to cure the violation.
  • Contact Code Enforcement or Planning for guidance and to confirm forms and deadlines.Code Enforcement contact[2]

FAQ

Can I appeal a sign removal order?
Yes. The municipal code provides administrative appeal routes; follow the order's instructions and file within the stated deadline or contact Code Enforcement for the precise appeal form and schedule.
Will the city remove my sign immediately?
Some orders allow a compliance period; others for hazardous or public-right-of-way signs may lead to prompt removal or emergency abatement.
Are there fees for appeals?
Fees vary by application type; check the department fee schedule or contact the department for current amounts.

How-To

  1. Review the removal order and note the deadline and the cited code section.
  2. Gather evidence: permits, photos, contracts, or proof of temporary authorization.
  3. Contact Code Enforcement or the Planning/Building division to confirm the appeal route and required forms.
  4. Complete and submit the appeal or permit application with required fees and evidence before the deadline.
  5. Attend any scheduled administrative hearing and present your evidence; follow any ordered remediation.

Key Takeaways

  • Act quickly: deadlines for appeal or compliance are often short.
  • Document everything and secure permits if eligible to cure the violation.
  • Use Code Enforcement and Planning contacts for official forms and guidance.Planning & Development

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Aurora Municipal Code - library.municode.com
  2. [2] City of Aurora Code Enforcement

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