Summary
Operating as a general contractor in Aurora, Colorado requires both state and local compliance. You must obtain a Colorado contractor's license through DORA, which involves meeting experience requirements, passing exams, and maintaining continuing education. Additionally, Aurora requires a local business license and strict adherence to building permit requirements through their Building Division. All work must be properly permitted, inspected, and performed by licensed professionals. Insurance requirements include general liability and workers' compensation coverage, with proof required before permits are issued. Aurora's robust construction market offers good opportunities for qualified contractors, but the city maintains strict oversight to ensure quality and safety standards are met.
License Requirements
General contractors in Aurora must obtain a Colorado contractor's license through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). For projects over $5,000, contractors need a state license requiring 4 years of experience or equivalent education, passing a business and law exam, and a trade exam. Aurora also requires a local business license through the Aurora Business License Division. Licenses must be renewed every 3 years with continuing education requirements (6 hours for residential, 8 hours for commercial). Contractors must maintain good standing with no unresolved complaints or violations.
Permit Requirements
Building permits are required through Aurora's Building Division for most general contracting work including new construction, additions, structural modifications, and major renovations. Applications require licensed contractor information, detailed plans, and engineering stamps when applicable. Typical processing times are 10-15 business days for residential permits, 15-20 days for commercial. Permit fees range from $100-500 for minor work to $2,000+ for major projects based on valuation. Inspections are required at various stages including foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, insulation, and final.
Insurance Requirements
General contractors must carry minimum $500,000 general liability insurance, though $1-2 million is recommended for larger projects. Workers' compensation insurance is required if employing others, with minimum coverage determined by payroll and risk classification. Aurora requires proof of insurance before permit issuance. Some projects may require additional umbrella policies or specific coverage amounts. Performance and payment bonds may be required for public projects over $50,000 or large private projects as specified in contracts.
Typical Cost Ranges
Residential remodels: $15,000-75,000 for kitchen/bath renovations, $25,000-100,000 for additions, $200,000-500,000 for custom homes. Commercial projects: $50-150 per sq ft for tenant improvements, $100-250 per sq ft for new construction. Home repairs and maintenance: $2,000-15,000 for roofing, $5,000-25,000 for foundation work. Aurora's higher-end market supports premium pricing, with luxury projects commanding 20-30% above state averages.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Colorado state contractor's license through DORA with required experience verification and exam passage
- ✓Register for Aurora business license and maintain current status with annual renewals
- ✓Secure general liability insurance ($500k minimum) and workers' compensation if employing others
- ✓Apply for building permits through Aurora Building Division with complete plans and contractor information
- ✓Schedule and pass required inspections (foundation, framing, mechanical, final) per permit requirements
- ✓Maintain proper licensing credentials on job sites and provide license numbers on all contracts and advertising
- ✓Comply with Aurora noise ordinances and construction hour restrictions (typically 7 AM - 6 PM weekdays)
- ✓Ensure all subcontractors are properly licensed and insured per Colorado and Aurora requirements
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