Aurora Historic District Review & Tax Incentives
Aurora, Colorado has procedures for reviewing changes to properties in designated historic districts and pathways to pursue tax-related incentives for rehabilitation. This guide explains how local review works, which offices enforce rules, how penalties and appeals function, and practical steps to apply for review and for federal/state tax programs. It is aimed at property owners, contractors, and preservation advocates in Aurora who need to navigate permitting, compliance, and incentive applications.
Overview of Historic District Review
Local historic district review typically evaluates exterior alterations, demolitions, additions, and new construction within designated historic districts or for designated landmarks. Aurora’s Historic Preservation program describes designation criteria, district maps, and staff review procedures on the city website for applicants and owners.Historic Preservation[1]
Standards and Approval Pathways
Review is based on local design standards and the applicable chapter of the municipal code; some projects qualify for administrative staff approval while others require commission hearings. The Aurora municipal code contains the controlling ordinances and procedural rules for historic resources and review.Aurora Municipal Code[2]
- Certificate of Appropriateness or similar permit is required for exterior work affecting historic features.
- Public notice and hearing timelines depend on the level of review; consult staff for calendar windows.
- Construction documents may be required for structural work or code compliance.
Tax Incentives and Financial Programs
Property owners in Aurora may pursue federal rehabilitation tax incentives and other programs that apply to certified historic structures. Federal tax incentives are administered through the National Park Service and the State Historic Preservation Officer; these programs have specific documentation and review requirements for rehabilitation work.Federal Historic Tax Incentives[3]
- Eligibility typically requires certification of historic status and review of rehabilitation plans by the State Historic Preservation Office and NPS.
- Tax credit values and state-level incentives vary; consult program guidance for current rates and caps.
- Documentation and qualified rehabilitation expenses must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards to qualify for credits.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of historic district rules is handled through Aurora’s municipal code and administered by the city’s planning or preservation staff. The municipal code identifies prohibited actions, required approvals, and corrective actions; specific fines or civil penalties are set out in ordinance sections when available.Aurora Municipal Code[2]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offense ranges are not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: orders to restore or to obtain retrospective approvals, stop-work orders, and court actions are listed as available remedies in the code.
- Enforcer and complaint pathway: Aurora Planning or Historic Preservation staff receive complaints and initiate inspections; contact details are on the city preservation pages.Historic Preservation[1]
- Appeals and review: appeal routes to the city review body or municipal court are described in the code; specific time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
The city publishes application forms and checklists for historic district review and for landmark designation on its preservation pages; the exact form names, numbers, and fees vary and are linked by the city. If a specific form number or fee is required and not posted, it is not specified on the cited pages.Historic Preservation[1]
- Certificate of Appropriateness application: name and fee - not specified on the cited page.
- Historic district nomination forms and documentation checklists are available through the city preservation office.
- Submission: typically via the Planning Division or online portal; confirm method with staff.
How to
- Confirm whether your property is in a designated historic district or is a designated landmark.
- Contact Aurora Historic Preservation staff early to review project scope and documentation requirements.Historic Preservation[1]
- Prepare plans that follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards if you intend to pursue federal/state tax incentives.Federal Historic Tax Incentives[3]
- Submit the required application packet, attend any required hearings, and respond promptly to staff comments.
- If pursuing tax incentives, follow State Historic Preservation Office procedures and submit certifications before claiming credits on tax filings.
FAQ
- What projects require historic district review?
- Exterior alterations, demolitions, additions, and new construction that affect designated resources generally require review under local rules.
- Can I get tax credits for rehabilitating a historic property in Aurora?
- Federal rehabilitation tax incentives may apply if the building is certified historic and work meets program standards; follow NPS and state procedures.
- How do I appeal a denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness?
- Appeal routes are provided in the municipal code; specific filing time limits are not specified on the cited page, so confirm with city staff.
Key Takeaways
- Start with city preservation staff to clarify review level and documentation.
- Follow Secretary of the Interior’s Standards to preserve eligibility for tax incentives.
- Penalties and fines are governed by the municipal code; specific amounts may not be listed on the online pages.
Help and Support / Resources
- Aurora Historic Preservation Program
- Aurora Municipal Code (library.municode.com)
- National Park Service - Federal Historic Tax Incentives