Report Illegal Signs - Aurora, Colorado Ordinance
Aurora, Colorado residents and businesses can report illegal signs or request an inspection when signage violates local sign regulations. This guide explains how to identify common violations, who enforces Aurora sign rules, how to file a complaint or request an inspection, and what to expect in enforcement and appeals.
What counts as an illegal sign
Illegal signs commonly include unpermitted permanent signs, temporary signs placed in the public right-of-way, signs with excessive size or illumination, and signs placed without landlord or zoning approval. To review the controlling ordinance text, consult the Aurora Municipal Code and sign regulations for exact definitions and prohibitions: Aurora Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances[1].
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of sign regulations in Aurora is carried out by the city's code enforcement and planning/building divisions, which may order removal, issue citations, or pursue civil remedies. Specific monetary fines, escalation, and continuing offence penalties are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the municipal code or enforcement office directly.[1]
- Enforcer: City of Aurora Code Enforcement and Planning & Development Services.
- Typical non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, administrative orders, permit revocation, or abatement at owner expense.
- Appeals: appeal routes and time limits are set in the ordinance or administrative rules; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.[1]
- Fines and escalation: first offence, repeat, and continuing offence amounts are not specified on the cited page; contact Code Enforcement for current schedules.[1]
Applications & Forms
Sign permits and applications are managed through Aurora's Planning & Development Services. The specific permit forms, fees, and submission instructions are published by the city; if a particular form or fee is needed for an appeal or retroactive permit, it is not specified on the cited page and must be obtained from the Planning office.[1]
How to report an illegal sign and request inspection
Follow these practical steps to report signage that may violate Aurora ordinances and to request a city inspection.
- Document the sign: photograph the sign, note the address or nearest intersection, date, and time.
- Contact Code Enforcement or submit an online complaint using the city reporting portal; include photos and location.
- Request an inspection: state whether you want a follow-up inspection and provide contact details for updates.
- If ordered removed, the city may set a deadline for compliance; follow official removal or permitting instructions to avoid further action.
FAQ
- How quickly will the city inspect a reported sign?
- Response times vary by workload and hazard level; urgent hazards receive priority. For official timelines, contact Code Enforcement directly.
- Can I remove a sign on public property myself?
- Removing signs in the public right-of-way may be restricted; the city may remove signs and charge abatement costs to the owner. Check with Code Enforcement before acting.
- What if a business says it has a permit?
- Request that the business provide the permit reference; Code Enforcement will verify permit validity and terms.
How-To
- Take clear photos of the sign from multiple angles and note the exact location.
- File a report with Aurora Code Enforcement online or by phone, attaching photos and location details.
- Request an inspection and ask for an expected response timeframe and case number.
- If the city issues an order, follow the removal or permitting instructions or pursue appeal procedures if you disagree.
Key Takeaways
- Document signs carefully and report with photos and exact location.
- Enforcement is by Aurora Code Enforcement and Planning & Development Services; fines and schedules should be confirmed with the city.
Help and Support / Resources
- Aurora Code Enforcement
- Planning & Development Services - City of Aurora
- Report a Concern / Report a Violation - Aurora