Aurora Political Sign Rules & Permits
Aurora, Colorado regulates campaign and political signs through local sign rules administered by city planning and development staff. This guide explains where political signs are permitted, timing limits, permit requirements, enforcement procedures, and practical steps for campaign teams and residents to comply.
Where political signs are allowed
Political signs in Aurora are typically treated as temporary signs and are subject to the city sign regulations and restrictions on placement in public rights-of-way, private property with owner permission, and visibility near intersections. For official sign classifications and location rules see the City of Aurora planning guidance.Official sign guidance[1]
Standard size, time and placement limits
The Aurora sign rules distinguish temporary signs (including political) by allowable size, height, and proximity to streets and intersections; many rules focus on sight distance and traffic safety. Specific numeric limits for political signs (dimensions, setback distances, or exact display periods) are not consolidated on the general sign guidance page and therefore are not specified on the cited page.[1]
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of political sign rules in Aurora is handled by city planning and code enforcement staff within Development Services and related departments. Official sources list complaint and enforcement pathways but do not publish a consolidated schedule of fines for political sign violations on the general sign guidance page, so fine amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Escalation: first/repeat/continuing offence procedures are not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, seizure of signs, and court actions are potential remedies referenced in enforcement practice but specific procedures or timelines are not listed on the cited guidance.[1]
- Enforcer and complaints: Development Services and Code Enforcement accept complaints and handle investigations via the city reporting systems.[1]
Applications & Forms
The city publishes information about sign permits and when a sign permit is required; however, the cited planning guidance does not list a specific form number, fixed fee schedule for political signs, or an online campaign-sign application form, so the exact form name and fee are not specified on the cited page.[1]
Common violations
- Placing signs in the public right-of-way near roads or intersections without permission.
- Exceeding size or height limits for temporary signs when local limits apply.
- Displaying signs beyond allowed timeframes (post-election or pre-election limits where applicable).
How to comply and act
- Confirm whether your proposed signs are on private property with the landowner's permission.
- Contact Aurora Development Services or Code Enforcement to verify permit needs and current restrictions.
- If you receive an order to remove signs, follow the instructions promptly and note appeal deadlines.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to display political signs in Aurora?
- Many political signs are treated as temporary signs and may not need a permit in all circumstances, but permit requirements vary by location and sign type; the city guidance does not list a single campaign-sign permit form or fee schedule, so verify with Development Services.[1]
- Can I place signs on public right-of-way or utility poles?
- Signs in public rights-of-way or on utility poles are generally restricted for safety and right-of-way management; such placement is prohibited or requires authorization—check with the city before placement.[1]
- What should I do if a competing campaign's signs block sight lines?
- Report safety hazards or sight-line concerns to Aurora Code Enforcement or Development Services for inspection and potential removal orders.
How-To
- Plan sign locations on private property where you have permission and keep clear of intersections and sidewalks.
- Call or email Aurora Development Services to confirm if a permit is needed for your sign type and location.
- If a permit is required, complete the city sign permit application and pay any applicable fee as instructed by staff.
- Install signs according to the permitted dimensions, heights, and setback instructions; avoid public rights-of-way unless specifically allowed.
- After the election or at the permit end date, promptly remove all campaign signs and document removal.
Key Takeaways
- Political signs are usually classed as temporary signs under Aurora rules; check before posting.
- Contact Development Services or Code Enforcement for clarifications and to report violations.