Summary
Operating as a licensed plumbing contractor in Aurora requires both state and local compliance. You'll need a Colorado State Plumbing License obtained through DORA, which requires significant experience, passing a state exam, and ongoing continuing education. Additionally, you must register your business locally with Aurora and maintain proper insurance coverage including general liability and workers compensation. Most plumbing work requires permits from the Aurora Building Division, with fees typically ranging from $35-$150 depending on project scope. The permit process is generally efficient, taking 1-3 business days for approval, but all work must pass required inspections before completion. Success in Aurora's plumbing market requires staying current with both state licensing requirements and local permit processes while maintaining proper insurance coverage and documentation.
License Requirements
Plumbing contractors in Aurora must obtain a Colorado State Plumbing License through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Requirements include 4 years of experience (or 2 years plus technical education), passing the state plumbing examination, and completing 8 hours of continuing education annually. Additionally, contractors must register with the City of Aurora and obtain a business license. Journeyman plumbers need 4 years of experience and must pass the journeyman exam. Master plumbers require 2 additional years beyond journeyman level. Licenses must be renewed every 3 years with proof of continuing education.
Permit Requirements
Plumbing permits are required for most plumbing work in Aurora including new installations, repairs, alterations, and replacements. Permits are obtained through the Aurora Building Division. Application requires licensed contractor information, detailed scope of work, and applicable fees ranging from $35-$150 depending on project complexity. Simple repairs under $1,000 may be exempt. Permit applications are typically processed within 1-3 business days. All work must be inspected and approved before final occupancy. Emergency repairs may proceed without permit but must be permitted within 2 business days.
Insurance Requirements
Plumbing contractors in Aurora must maintain general liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence and $1,000,000 aggregate. Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for contractors with employees, with minimum coverage as required by Colorado state law. Professional liability insurance is recommended but not always required. Some projects may require additional bonding, particularly for municipal or large commercial work. Proof of current insurance must be provided when applying for permits and may be required for contractor registration renewal.
Typical Cost Ranges
Common plumbing project costs in Aurora: Basic toilet installation $200-$500, water heater replacement $1,200-$3,500, kitchen/bathroom remodel plumbing $2,000-$8,000, whole-house repipe $5,000-$15,000, sewer line replacement $3,000-$12,000, fixture repairs $150-$400, drain cleaning $150-$300, and backflow preventer installation $300-$800. Costs vary based on complexity, materials, and accessibility. Emergency service calls typically include $100-$200 service fee plus hourly rates of $80-$150.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain Colorado State Plumbing License through DORA
- ✓Register business with City of Aurora and obtain local business license
- ✓Secure general liability insurance ($500,000/$1,000,000) and workers compensation
- ✓Apply for appropriate permits through Aurora Building Division before starting work
- ✓Ensure all work is performed by licensed plumbers and properly supervised
- ✓Schedule required inspections and obtain approval before covering work
- ✓Maintain current continuing education requirements (8 hours annually)
- ✓Keep detailed records of all permits, inspections, and license renewals
READYDOCS
These are the documents Iris tracks for you.
Store them in one place. Get alerts before anything expires. Ask Iris anything from the job site.
$19/month — First month free. No credit card required.
No credit card. Cancel anytime.