Aurora Location Scouting & Crew Parking Rules
Aurora, Colorado requires permits and compliance with municipal rules for location scouting, filming, and crew parking on public property and in many parks or rights of way. This guide summarizes the usual steps to secure permissions, avoid parking violations, and coordinate with city departments so productions run smoothly while respecting public safety and local bylaws.
Permits and When They Apply
Filming, commercial photography, and organized crew parking that uses city streets, sidewalks, parks, or municipal parking lots typically require a Film & Photography Permit or a Special Event/Right-of-Way permit issued by the City of Aurora. Always contact the city film or special events office early in planning to confirm permit requirements and any insurance or indemnity obligations.[1]
- Apply for a Film & Photography Permit or Special Event permit when your activity uses public property, blocks sidewalks, or places equipment on the right-of-way.
- Schedule permit requests well before the shoot to allow routing, traffic control, or park reservations.
- Provide proof of insurance and list of vehicle parking needs; fee amounts are established by the city permit office or municipal code.
Crew Parking: Typical City Requirements
Crew parking on city streets or in municipal lots can trigger meter rules, tow-away restrictions, and parking citations; long-term or large-vehicle parking often requires a temporary parking permit or an approved lot reservation.
- Short-term street parking may follow posted signs and meter rules; check local signage and city parking maps.
- For reserved parking or blocking lanes, obtain a Right-of-Way or Street Use permit tied to your film/special event permit.
- Coordinate with Aurora Parking Enforcement or the Police Department for any required traffic control officers.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement responsibility typically falls to Aurora Parking Enforcement and the Aurora Police Department for public-safety and traffic control matters, and to the department issuing permits for permit compliance. Specific fine amounts and escalation schedules are set in the municipal code or by permit conditions; where not provided on the cited pages below, the text notes that the amount is not specified on the cited page.
- Monetary fines for parking, obstruction, or right-of-way violations: not specified on the cited page.[2]
- Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.[2]
- Non-monetary sanctions may include stop-work orders, permit revocation, towing of vehicles, removal of equipment, and civil or criminal court action as authorized by ordinance.
- Appeals or administrative review: follow the appeals procedures listed on the permit decision or municipal code; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.[2]
Applications & Forms
The City issues Film & Photography permits and Special Event/Right-of-Way permits; fee schedules, insurance minimums, and submission portals are managed by the city permit office. The exact form names and fee amounts are listed on the city permit pages and the municipal code when available.[1]
- Film & Photography Permit: submission and requirements listed by the city permit office; check the city film or special events page for application link and required attachments.
- Permit fees and deposits: consult the permit page or contact the permit office; if a numeric fee is not shown on the permit page, it is not specified on the cited page.
- Submit applications via the city’s online portal or the department email/office listed on the permit page.
How-To
- Determine whether your location uses city property or impacts the right-of-way and identify necessary permits.
- Contact the City of Aurora film or special events office to request the correct application and checklist.[1]
- Reserve parking, traffic control, or park space as required; submit vehicle manifests and schedules with your permit application.
- Obtain required insurance, pay any fees, and receive an approved permit document before parking or filming on public property.
- Keep permit and contact information on site and comply with any conditions from Parking Enforcement or Police; if cited, follow the appeal instructions on the citation.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to scout locations in Aurora?
- Yes for scouting on city property or where you will place equipment or vehicles on public rights-of-way; private property scouting does not always require a city permit but may need owner permission.[1]
- Can crew vehicles park overnight on city streets?
- Overnight parking is subject to posted restrictions, meters, and tow rules; large or long-term parking typically requires a temporary permit or lot reservation. Specific overnight parking fees or allowances are not specified on the cited page.[2]
- Who enforces filming and parking rules?
- Enforcement is handled by Aurora Parking Enforcement and the Aurora Police Department for safety and traffic matters, and by the issuing permit office for permit compliance.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Always contact the city permit office early to confirm permit needs and timelines.
- Reserve and document parking plans for crew and equipment to avoid citations and towing.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Aurora Parks, Recreation & Open Space
- Aurora Police Department
- Aurora Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
- City of Aurora Community Development