Code Compliance Frequently Asked Questions

What does “unincorporated” Adams County mean?
Unincorporated properties within the jurisdictional boundary of Adams County, Colorado, are not governed by a local municipal entity. Unincorporated portions of Adams County typically fall outside the city limits of the City of Aurora, the City of Brighton, the City of Commerce City, etc.

What are your regulations for vehicles?
Vehicles that are obviously inoperable, partially or totally dismantled, or are wrecked/damaged to the extent they would be unlawful to operate on a public street, may not be stored outside on any public street or on private property.

How do you report abandoned / unlicensed vehicles?
Abandoned / unlicensed / inoperable vehicles parked on the street where the owner is unknown, contact the Sheriff’s Office at 720.322.1700.

How long can trash containers be at the curb?
Trash containers are only allowed in the front-yard area or street for 24 hours to allow for pickup. Pull the containers back behind the front of the house to store. All trash containers must be covered.

Who is responsible for dead trees?
Tree limbs or bushes may not block the sidewalk, cause a hinderance when overhanging the street, or obstruct the view of traffic. Nuisance or problem (dead) trees on private property that do not impact a right-of-way is a matter for neighbors to resolve.

Tree limbs in power lines should be reported to either Excel (800.895.4999) or United Power (303.637.1350).

What is environmental blight?
Environmental Blight is rubbish, junk, trash, garbage and debris; tall, overgrown grass, weeds, brush (12”);castoff material such as scrap metal, plastic, wood, appliances, machinery and auto parts stored outdoors.

Do I need a permit for a shed or outbuilding?
Accessory structures (sheds more than 200 sq. ft.) require a permit (epermitcenter@adamscountyco.gov).

Do I need a permit for a fence?
Fences higher than 42” require a permit (epermitcenter@adamscountyco.gov). Fences must be structurally sound and maintained in good repair.

When am I required to remove snow and ice from the sidewalk?
Property owners are required to maintain sidewalks, curbs, and gutters, including snow removal, to allow pedestrian access.

How do I report illegal dumping?
Trash dumped in the street or alley should be reported to Public Works at 720.523.6875.

How do I file a building complaint?
Complaints regarding remodels, additions to buildings, plumbing, electrical, etc., should be reported to the Building Safety Division at 720.523.6800.

How do I file a complaint about illicit discharge?
Concerns involving drainage, ditches, retention ponds, oil or fluid in the street, and leaves in the street should be reported to Stormwater Quality Division at 720.52.-6400 or swq@adamscountyco.gov.

How do I report noise complaints?
Noise complaints of loud music, parties, and neighbor disputes are the jurisdiction of the Sheriff’s Office. Please call their non-emergency number at 303.288.1535 to report these concerns.

Is Construction noise allowed?
Construction noise is allowed between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

How do I report graffiti?
To report graffiti, call the graffiti hotline at 720.523.6565 or send an email to graffiti@adamscountyco.gov.

How do I report a streetlight outage?
To report the outage of a streetlight, contact Excel (800.895.4999) or United Power (303.637.1350).