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Concrete in Aurora
Licensed concrete services for Aurora and Arapahoe/Adams County. Foundations to flatwork.
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Foundations to flatwork
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Local Service
Concrete Services in Aurora, Colorado
Autotelic provides professional concrete services throughout Aurora and the surrounding Arapahoe/Adams County area. Residential and commercial concrete including foundations, slabs, flatwork, retaining walls, and decorative finishes. Whether you're in Aurora (Colorado's third-largest city) or nearby communities, our team delivers quality workmanship backed by Colorado licensing and full insurance coverage.
Permits & Licensing
Permits in Aurora
Aurora building permits are issued by the Building Division's Permit Center, which also handles public improvement, sign, and lawn and irrigation permits. Contractor licensing is a City of Aurora requirement, and applications go through the Aurora4Biz.org online portal. Authority: City of Aurora — Building Division (Permit Center).
Permit Thresholds
Aurora permit thresholds
- Code reference
- Permits are generally required for residential remodel work in Aurora, Colorado, per the adopted building codes (primarily the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) with local amendments in Aurora City Code Chapter 22, Article V), unless specifically exempt.
- Aurora City Code § 22-184 (amending IRC R105.2) exempts only
- one-story detached accessory residential storage sheds, playhouses, or shade structures ≤120 sq ft, not attached to the residence, and not used for vehicle storage.§ 22-184
- Code reference
- Aurora City Code § 22-135 (amending IBC 105.2) has similar limited exemptions for certain small accessory structures, fences ≤7 ft high (plus all chain-link fences), and antennae/towers ≤25 ft high.§ 22-135
- Structural triggers
- Any structural alteration, addition, or work affecting load-bearing elements generally requires a permit under the adopted IRC (see R105 and amendments).
- Use tax (construction materials use tax)
- Prior to permit issuance, a deposit is required based on 3.75% (three and three-fourths percent) applied to 50% of the total estimated cost of the building/construction/reconstruction/alteration/expansion/modification/improvement (or 100% of the total estimated cost of construction materials/
- Code reference
- This is per Aurora City Code § 130-61.§ 130-61.
- Code reference
- All information is based on the Aurora Municipal Code (Chapter 22) and official city resources.
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City of Aurora — Building Division (Permit Center).
Energy Code
Aurora energy code quick facts
- Code reference
- Aurora, Colorado, has adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) as its base energy code (with the Colorado Model Electric Ready and Solar Ready Code also required by state law).
- Code reference
- Aurora is in IECC Climate Zone 5B.
- Code reference
- The adopting provision is Aurora City Code § 22-203 (Code adopted, under Article VI, International Energy Conservation Code).§ 22-203
- Code reference
- Key prescriptive requirements relevant to remodels/additions (drawn from 2021 IECC Table R402.1.2 and related sections for CZ 5B; these apply unless a performance path or other compliance option is used):
- Ceiling/attic insulation
- R-49 (2021 IECC Table R402.1.2, CZ 5B).
- Wood-frame wall insulation
- R-20 or 13 + 5ci (continuous insulation) (2021 IECC Table R402.1.2, CZ 5B).
- Floor insulation (over unconditioned space)
- R-30 (2021 IECC Table R402.1.2, CZ 5B).
- Fenestration (windows)
- Maximum U-factor 0.30 and SHGC 0.40 (2021 IECC Table R402.1.2, CZ 5B).
Codes are amended regularly — verify current requirements with City of Aurora — Building Division (Permit Center).
Zoning & Dimensional Standards
Setback & dimensional standards in Aurora
Zone-district dimensional standards for Aurora, quoted verbatim from the Aurora Unified Development Ordinance. Knowing your lot's district — and its setbacks, height, and coverage limits — is where every feasibility conversation starts.
I-1setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Rear Setback (min) | 5 ft. |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance I-1 setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
I-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Rear Setback (min) | 5 ft. |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance I-2 setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
R-1setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Lot Area, Single-Family Detached (min) | 6,000 sf. [1] |
| Lot Frontage, Single-Family Detached (min) | Subarea A: 50 ft. Subarea B: 60 ft. |
| Front Setback (min) | 25 ft. [4] |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5 ft. [6] |
| Side Setback Abutting Local Street (min) | 12.5 ft. |
| Rear Setback (min) | 20 ft. |
| Building Height (max) | 38 ft. |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance R-1 setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
R-2setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Lot Area, Single-Family Detached (min) | 6,000 sf. [1] |
| Lot Frontage, Single-Family Detached (min) | Subarea A: 50 ft. Subarea B: 60 ft. |
| Front Setback (min) | 20 ft. [4] |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5 ft.[6] |
| Side Setback Abutting Local Street (min) | 10 ft. |
| Rear Setback (min) | 15 ft. |
| Building Height (max) | 38 ft. |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance R-2 setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
R-3setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Lot Area, Single-Family Detached (min) | 5,000 sf. |
| Lot Frontage, Single-Family Detached (min) | 50 ft. |
| Front Setback (min) | 15 ft. |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5 ft. |
| Side Setback Abutting Local Street (min) | 10 ft. |
| Rear Setback (min) | 10 ft. |
| Building Height (max) | 45 ft.[7] |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance R-3 setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
R-4setback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Lot Area, Single-Family Detached (min) | 5,000 sf. |
| Lot Frontage, Single-Family Detached (min) | 50 ft. |
| Front Setback (min) | 12 ft. |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5 ft. |
| Side Setback Abutting Local Street (min) | 7.5 ft. |
| Rear Setback (min) | 10 ft. |
| Building Height (max) | 65 ft.[8] |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance R-4 setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
R-MHsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Lot Area, Single-Family Detached (min) | [2] |
| Front Setback (min) | 15 ft. |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 5 ft. |
| Side Setback Abutting Local Street (min) | 15 ft. |
| Rear Setback (min) | 8 ft. |
| Building Height (max) | 20 ft.[9] |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance R-MH setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
R-Rsetback & dimensional standards
| Standard | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Lot Area, Single-Family Detached (min) | 43,560 sf. |
| Lot Frontage, Single-Family Detached (min) | 120 ft. |
| Front Setback (min) | 30 ft. |
| Side Interior Setback (min) | 10 ft. |
| Side Setback Abutting Local Street (min) | 25 ft. |
| Rear Setback (min) | 25 ft. |
| Building Height (max) | 38 ft. |
Aurora Unified Development Ordinance R-R setback standards (146-4.2.2 Table 4.2-1) — effective 2026-02-23 · View the code
Verify current requirements with the jurisdiction — informational reference only. Standards vary by overlay, lot, and use; we confirm the exact rules for your property during feasibility.
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What concrete work covers in the Denver metro
Concrete projects in the Denver metro include driveways, patios, sidewalks, garage slabs, steps, footings, foundation walls, and commercial site paving or equipment pads. Repair work may replace failed panels or address spalling and settlement where the surrounding slab remains sound. A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates concrete scopes and related excavation, forming, and specialty trades when utilities or structural connections are involved. Cost is project-specific and depends on thickness, reinforcement, access, demolition, and whether the work is structural.
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Front Range soils, weather, and durability
Freeze-thaw cycles, expansive soils, and drainage problems drive many local slab and foundation issues. Subgrade prep, joint layout, reinforcement, vapor control, and curing practices all affect how a pour performs. Hot and cold weather placement needs product-appropriate protection and cure time.
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Permits and who coordinates the work
Structural concrete such as foundations and many addition-related slabs typically needs building permits and inspections through City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development (or the local building department outside Denver). Concrete in the public right-of-way — sidewalks, curb, gutter, and related work — often needs Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) permits separate from CPD. Cities and counties license general contractors. Colorado has no statewide general contractor license. Autotelic acts as a municipally licensed Denver general contractor and coordinates licensed specialty trades when the package includes regulated utility or structural specialties.
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What buyers should define early
Flatwork vs foundation intent, approximate square footage, drainage goals, whether sidewalks or approaches sit in the public right-of-way, and any known settlement history. Structural scopes may need engineering before forming. Access for trucks and pump equipment should be confirmed before the pour day.
FAQ
Common questions
Do I need a permit for a patio or driveway in Denver?
Private-property flatwork rules depend on size, zoning, and whether drainage or structural elements are affected. Sidewalks and other public right-of-way work often need DOTI permits. Structural foundations need CPD building permits. Confirm the address-specific path before forming.
Who handles concrete permits and licensing?
A municipally licensed Denver general contractor coordinates the project and related specialty trades. CPD handles many building permits; DOTI often handles public right-of-way concrete. Colorado has no statewide general contractor license.
Why do Front Range slabs crack?
Soil movement, freeze-thaw, poor drainage, and inadequate joints or curing are common contributors. Proper subgrade, jointing, and drainage design reduce risk but do not eliminate all cracking.
What is the difference between flatwork and foundation concrete?
Flatwork is typically slabs and walks for surface use. Foundation concrete supports structures and usually needs engineered details, inspections, and building permits.
What information helps define an accurate concrete scope?
Use case (patio, driveway, foundation), approximate area, photos of existing conditions, drainage concerns, whether the work touches the public sidewalk, and the city or county for permitting.
Service Area
Serving Aurora and Arapahoe/Adams County
We serve Aurora, CO and all surrounding Denver metro communities. Our team is based in Denver and operates throughout the Front Range, from Castle Rock to Longmont and everywhere in between. Contact us for a free estimate on your Aurora project.
How It Runs
01
Survey
02
Design
03
Build
04
Verify
DESIGN SERVICES
Discovery & Site Analysis
Needs + preference programming, site survey, as-built documentation, feasibility.
We walk, measure, and photograph your property — existing conditions, utilities, structure, and constraints. You get the as-built documentation and feasibility read that every later decision rests on.
Learn more →Concept Design & Space Planning
Schematic design, floor plan studies, layout options.
Your scope becomes schematic floor plans you can compare side by side — circulation, daylight, adjacencies, and what each option does to the budget. Layout decisions happen on paper, where changes are cheap.
Learn more →Architectural Design & 3D Renderings
Design development, materials + finishes, photorealistic visualization.
The chosen concept resolves into materials, finishes, fixtures, and lighting — with the automation layer drawn in. Photorealistic renderings let you walk the space and adjust before anything is priced.
Learn more →Construction Documents & Permitting
Full CD sets, structural + MEP engineering coordination, permit-ready drawings.
Approved designs become coordinated architectural, structural, and MEP sheets — the set your jurisdiction permits from and trades build from. We submit, track, and answer review comments.
Learn more →CONSTRUCTION
New Construction & Custom Homes
Ground-up homes and light commercial, dirt to keys.
Ground-up residential and light commercial builds — foundations through finishes, including modular and steel construction. One accountable builder from dirt to keys.
Learn more →Remodels & Additions
Kitchens, baths, basements, pop-tops, whole-home.
Kitchens, baths, basements, pop-tops, and whole-home renovations that respect the house you already have. We handle structure, permits, and the dust.
Learn more →Commercial Tenant Finish & Build-Outs
Shells to working spaces — retail, office, restaurant, school.
Raw shells become working spaces — showrooms, offices, restaurants, schools. Dealer-spec finishes, code compliance, and opening dates held.
Learn more →ADUs & Modular Construction
Backyard cottages, garage conversions, factory-built homes.
Backyard cottages, garage conversions, and factory-built homes — zoning, design, permits, and set. Denver’s ADU rules are a specialty, not a surprise.
Learn more →Outdoor Living & Patio Structures
Decks, pergolas, and dining patios built for Colorado weather.
Decks, pergolas, and dining patios engineered for Colorado sun, snow, and hail — structure, shade, and drainage done right the first time.
Learn more →TECHNOLOGY
Smart Home Automation
Lighting, shades, climate, audio, security — one interface.
Whole-home control of lighting, shades, climate, audio, and security from a single interface — Crestron, Lutron, Savant, and Control4 designed in, not bolted on.
Learn more →A/V Systems
Theaters, distributed audio, video walls, commercial sound.
Theaters, distributed audio, video walls, and commercial sound — designed, installed, and tuned by the same team for over 20 years.
Learn more →Control Systems
Custom programming — scenes and schedules that fit the space.
Every subsystem brought into one elegant interface — custom programming for homes and venues, with scenes and schedules that match how the space is actually used.
Learn more →Networking & Edge Compute
Enterprise Wi-Fi, structured cabling, racks, on-prem compute.
Enterprise-grade Wi-Fi, structured cabling, racks, and on-premise compute — the backbone that makes everything else reliable, including our own Barbot platform.
Learn more →Solar & Energy Storage
Solar arrays, Tesla Powerwall, EV charging — certified install.
Solar arrays, Tesla Powerwall, and EV charging designed and installed by a Tesla Energy Certified team — roof, electrical, and app in one scope.
Learn more →TRUSTED TO BUILD FOR
- Punch Bowl SocialFirst four locations
- Spectrum RetirementSenior living communities
- Denver HighlandsFirst modular custom home
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