Aurora Sign Permit Guide - City Sign Regulations

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

Aurora, Colorado businesses must follow municipal sign rules before installing, replacing, or modifying exterior signs. This guide explains who enforces sign rules, how to check code requirements, what to include in applications, inspection and permit timelines, and the common reasons applications are denied. Use the official code and the city permit pages to confirm precise standards for size, placement, illumination and historic districts before you install any sign.

Overview of Sign Regulation

Signs in Aurora are regulated as part of the municipal code and the city planning and building permit processes. Before applying, confirm zoning-specific limits, frontage calculations, and restrictions for temporary and directional signs.

Key resources: municipal code for sign standards and the city permit center for application forms and submittal requirements[1][2].

What Requires a Permit

  • New permanent exterior signs or replacement of sign faces.
  • Change of sign structure, relocation, or installation of illuminated signs.
  • Temporary banners and special event signage when displayed beyond allowed timeframes.
Always check zone-specific standards before ordering a sign.

Design and Zoning Considerations

  • Maximum sign area and height limits depend on zoning and frontage.
  • Illumination rules restrict brightness, color and proximity to residential areas.
  • Historic or overlay districts may require design review or additional approvals.

Applying for a Sign Permit

Follow these general steps; confirm exact document names and fees on the city permit page before submission.

  • Confirm zoning and allowable sign area for your property.
  • Prepare drawings: site plan, elevations, mounting details, and electrical schematics for illuminated signs.
  • Pay applicable permit fees and any plan review fees at submission.
  • Submit application to the city planning or permit center as directed on the official permit page.
Some installations also require a licensed electrician to file an electrical permit.

Applications & Forms

The official permit application name, form number, published fees and specific submittal instructions must be obtained from the city permit center; the exact form numbers and fee table are not specified on the cited permit page[2].

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the city department responsible for code enforcement and building permits; for sign code text see the municipal code, and for reporting or permit inquiries use the city permit/contact pages[1][2].

  • Monetary fines: specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited municipal code page.
  • Escalation: information about first, repeat, or continuing offence schedules is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: the city may issue stop-work orders, removal notices, or require restoration of property; precise remedies are described in the municipal code and enforcement procedure sections[1].
  • Enforcer and inspections: Code Enforcement and Building/Permits staff conduct inspections, accept complaints, and issue notices through the city permit center or code enforcement hotline[2].
  • Appeals: appeal routes and time limits for administrative review or hearings are set in the municipal code or permit appeal procedures; exact time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If you receive a notice, act quickly to request review or file an appeal within the stated deadline.

Applications & Forms

Any official application names, form numbers, submission addresses, and published fee schedules must be taken from the city permit center; if a specific application form is required it will be listed on the city permit page and must be used for submission[2].

Common Violations

  • Installing a sign without a permit, often resulting in removal orders.
  • Exceeding permitted sign area or height limits.
  • Illuminated signs violating brightness or setback rules.

FAQ

Do I always need a permit to replace a sign face?
Often yes; whether a permit is required depends on whether the sign structure or electrical components are altered, and on zoning rules.
How long does review take?
Review times vary by application complexity and workload; check the permit center for current estimated timelines.
Can temporary signs be placed for special events?
Temporary signage is allowed under limits for duration and size; check the municipal code and event permit requirements.

How-To

  1. Confirm zoning and sign standards for your property using the municipal code and city zoning maps.
  2. Prepare required drawings and documentation: site plan, elevations, structural and electrical details.
  3. Complete the official sign permit application and attach required documents.
  4. Submit the application and pay fees through the city permit center or online portal.
  5. Schedule any required inspections after installation and obtain final sign approval.

Key Takeaways

  • Always check zoning before ordering signs.
  • Use official permit forms and include full drawings.
  • Respond promptly to notices to avoid escalated enforcement.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Aurora Municipal Code - Codes of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Aurora - Sign permits and permit center

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