Aurora, CO Building Permits Guide
Aurora, CO building permit timeline: Plan review takes 2 to 40 days depending on project type. Contact the building department for current processing times.
Building permit review in Aurora, CO typically takes between 2 and 40 days depending on project type and complexity. This page covers review timelines, required permits, costs, and how to speed up the process.
Aurora Plan Review Timeline
For Aurora, CO, specific details on the plan check process timeline are not explicitly mentioned on the provided websites. However, the Development Handbook for the City of Aurora provides some general information on review timelines:
- Commercial & Multi-Family Review for Code Compliance:
- Total working days for first submittal and subsequent corrections can vary, but examples include 11 days for minor reviews up to 40 days for more complex projects.
- Specific breakdowns:
- First review: Varies by the complexity of the project (e.g., minor, simple, complex).
- Code corrections by the applicant: Typically 7 days.
- City review of code corrections: 1 day for minor reviews, 2 days for more complex ones.
- Total processes can take from 2 to 8 weeks depending on the project complexity.
For more detailed information on specific project timelines, it might be necessary to contact the City's Building Division directly at 303.739.7420, as suggested in their resources.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Aurora Building Department
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What Building Permits Do You Need in Aurora?
Aurora requires permits for most construction activity. The type of permit depends on your project scope.
Commercial Permits
- New commercial construction: full plan review with the longest timeline
- Tenant improvements and interior buildouts: plan review for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes
- Change of use: required when converting building use (for example, retail to restaurant)
- Shell and core: separate from tenant improvement permits
Residential Permits
- New home construction: full plan review including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Additions and remodels: required when modifying structure or adding square footage
- Decks, pools, fences: separate permits with typically faster review
Trade Permits
Individual trade permits are typically required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), and fire sprinkler work.
How the Aurora Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Aurora building department. Applications are reviewed for completeness before being assigned to a plan reviewer.
Step 2: Plan Review
The city reviews your submitted plans for building code compliance, structural integrity, fire safety, energy code, and ADA accessibility. Commercial projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the same time.
Step 3: Corrections and Resubmittal
If the city issues correction comments, you will need to revise your plans and resubmit. Each correction cycle adds another review period. Most commercial projects go through 2 to 3 correction cycles.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Once all review departments approve your plans, the building permit is issued. Schedule inspections as work progresses.
Note: These timelines reflect general review periods. Large or complex projects may take longer. Request a quote from Permit Place for a project-specific estimate, or get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Aurora Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Aurora vary based on project type and valuation.
Commercial
- Tenant improvements: $500 to $5,000+
- New commercial construction: $2,000 to $25,000+ (based on valuation)
- Plan review fee: typically 50-65% of the building permit fee
Residential
- Small projects (decks, pools, fences): $50 to $300
- Home additions and remodels: $200 to $2,000+
- New home construction: $1,000 to $10,000+ (based on valuation)
For a detailed permit cost breakdown specific to your project, get a free due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Trade Permits
- Electrical: $50 to $500
- Plumbing: $50 to $500
- Mechanical: $50 to $500
Fee ranges are estimates. Actual fees depend on project valuation and scope. Contact the Aurora building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Aurora Building Department
Aurora Building Department
- Website: www.auroragov.org/business_services/building_division
- City Website: www.auroragov.org
Frequently Asked Questions About Aurora Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Aurora?
Plan review in Aurora, CO takes 2 to 40 days for the initial review cycle. Projects that receive correction comments will need additional review cycles, each adding time to the total. Most commercial projects go through at least two review cycles before approval.
What is the difference between residential and commercial permit review in Aurora?
Commercial projects in Aurora require review by multiple departments (building, fire, public works, and sometimes health), which adds time. Residential projects typically involve fewer review disciplines and can be processed faster. Tenant improvements fall between the two depending on scope.
Can I speed up the permit process in Aurora?
The most effective way to speed up the permit process in Aurora is to submit complete, code-compliant plans on the first attempt. This reduces correction cycles, which are the primary cause of delays. Permit Place helps ensure your application is complete before submission.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Aurora?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Aurora that involve structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC modifications require a building permit. Simple cosmetic changes (paint, flooring, non-structural work) typically do not require a permit.
How much does a building permit cost in Aurora?
Permit fees in Aurora are calculated based on project valuation and type. Commercial projects typically pay $500 to $25,000+ in total permit and plan review fees. The exact cost depends on project scope, square footage, and any additional trade permits required.
Can a permit expediter help with my Aurora project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Aurora and 600+ other jurisdictions. We handle everything from application preparation through plan review, corrections, and permit issuance. Our clients typically get permits faster because we submit complete applications that reduce correction cycles.
What building permits do I need in Aurora, CO?
Most construction in Aurora requires a building permit. This includes new construction, tenant improvements, change of use, additions, and major renovations. Separate trade permits for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection are also typically required. For a project-specific permit requirements report, use PermitNow.io.
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