As of September 2026 reporting, Aurora's code allowed only detached ADUs, and only in three zoning districts in Original Aurora. The city is drafting rules to allow internal, attached and detached ADUs on any lot with a single-family home, with adoption expected before March 2027.
What is Aurora proposing?
According to Colorado Politics (September 17, 2026), Aurora staff held a study session in July 2026, launched the project in August, and plan to bring proposals to council by December 2026. The draft would allow all three ADU forms citywide, with architectural and use standards still being written. The city logged 262 ADU requests between 2023 and early June 2026.
Doesn't state law already require ADUs in Aurora?
The Colorado Department of Local Affairs lists Aurora among jurisdictions subject to HB24-1152, which generally required compliance by June 30, 2025. How Aurora is processing applications outside Original Aurora before its new code is adopted is something we confirm with the city for each address. We do not guess at it.
What do we look at on an Aurora lot?
- Location. Whether the lot is in Original Aurora or elsewhere in the city.
- Lot type. Newer subdivisions often have smaller rear yards, which can point to a basement or attached unit.
- HOAs. Common in Aurora subdivisions. Colorado limits what an HOA can do about ADUs. See the HOA guide.
- County. Aurora spans three counties, which can affect some fees and records.