Aurora Utility Excavation Permit Guide
Aurora, Colorado contractors planning utility excavations in public rights-of-way must follow the citys permitting and safety rules to avoid fines, stop-work orders, and restoration obligations. This guide explains typical application steps, documentation, coordination with utility locators, on-site traffic control, and post-excavation restoration requirements. It summarizes who enforces the rules, how to submit permit applications, and practical actions contractors should take before, during, and after digging.
When a permit is required
A permit is generally required for any excavation, street cut, or work within Auroras public right-of-way. Contractors should confirm project-specific thresholds and exemptions with the City of Aurora Permit Office and obtain utility locates before work begins via the statewide locate service.City of Aurora Right-of-Way Permits[1] Contact Colorado 811 to request utility locates before excavation.Colorado 811 utility locate[2]
Key permit requirements
- Application form and detailed site plan showing location and depth of excavation.
- Proposed schedule and expected duration; traffic control plans for work affecting lanes or sidewalks.
- Restoration plan specifying pavement, curb, and sidewalk repair standards.
- Bond, deposit, or fee as required by the permitting office (see Applications & Forms).
- Proof of insurance and contractor licensing per city standards.
Permits, inspections, and compliance steps
- Submit completed permit application and plans to the City of Aurora permit portal or Public Works office.City of Aurora Right-of-Way Permits[1]
- Request utility locates through Colorado 811 at least the minimum required notice period before excavation.Colorado 811 utility locate[2]
- Comply with traffic control and safety plans during work; allow inspections as required by the city.
- Complete restoration per city specifications and schedule any final inspections for permit closeout.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement for unauthorized or noncompliant excavations is handled by the City of Aurora through Public Works and related permitting offices. Typical enforcement actions include fines, stop-work orders, required restoration, permit revocation, and referral to municipal court when necessary. Specific monetary fines and escalation for repeat or continuing violations are not specified on the cited City of Aurora permit pages.[1]
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the permit office for current fee schedules.[1]
- Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences and ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration orders, permit suspension or revocation, and civil or administrative court action.
- Enforcer and inspection: City of Aurora Public Works / Permit Office conducts inspections and issues orders; use the citys permit contact page to report violations.[1]
- Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited permit page; ask the permit office for appeal procedures and deadlines.[1]
Applications & Forms
The City of Aurora publishes Right-of-Way and excavation permit applications and submission instructions on its official permits page; specific form names, numbers, and fees are provided there or via the permit portal. If a particular form number or fee amount is not listed on the city page linked above, it is "not specified on the cited page" and applicants should contact the permit office for the exact document and fee schedule.[1]
- Where to apply: City of Aurora Right-of-Way Permit portal and Public Works permit desk.[1]
- Fees and bonds: see permit portal; specific amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Deadlines and lead times: check the portal for processing times; minimum notice for utility locates is through Colorado 811.[2]
Action steps for contractors
- Plan: include traffic control, restoration, schedule, and safety measures in your application.
- Locate: call Colorado 811 and obtain all utility locates before breaking ground.Colorado 811 utility locate[2]
- Apply: submit the right-of-way/excavation permit to the City of Aurora permit portal.City of Aurora Right-of-Way Permits[1]
- Comply: allow inspections, follow approved plans, and complete restoration promptly.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to dig in Aurora public rights-of-way?
- Yes. A right-of-way or excavation permit is generally required for any work in the public right-of-way; verify specifics with the City of Aurora permit office.[1]
- How do I get utility locates before excavation?
- Contact Colorado 811 to request utility locates before digging; follow the locate instructions before beginning work.[2]
- What happens if I excavate without a permit?
- Potential enforcement includes fines, stop-work orders, restoration orders, and permit revocation; exact fines and escalation are not specified on the cited city permit page.[1]
How-To
- Confirm whether your planned work is within the public right-of-way and requires a permit.
- Prepare site plans, traffic control, and restoration details; gather insurance and licensing documents.
- Request utility locates through Colorado 811 and wait for markings before excavation.Colorado 811 utility locate[2]
- Submit the right-of-way/excavation permit application to the City of Aurora permit portal and pay any required fees.City of Aurora Right-of-Way Permits[1]
- Perform the work in compliance with the approved plans; schedule inspections as required.
- Complete restoration to city standards and obtain final sign-off to close the permit.
Key Takeaways
- Always confirm permit requirements with the City of Aurora before digging.
- Call Colorado 811 for utility locates and keep documentation on site.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Aurora - Right-of-Way Permits
- City of Aurora - Public Works Department
- Aurora Municipal Code (Municode)
- Colorado 811 - Utility Locate Service