AURORA — Starting in July, Aurora property owners with neglected homes or buildings will face steep penalties, as the city rolls out a new ordinance aimed at enforcing property maintenance and community safety.
New Ordinance to Enforce Accountability
The Aurora City Council adopted the ordinance on June 9, following growing complaints from residents about the impact of abandoned and deteriorating buildings on local neighborhoods. The new law allows the city to step in and address code violations — at the property owner’s expense — if they fail to act.
Owners of problem properties could face daily fines of up to $999, according to CBS Colorado’s report.
“This is not about punishment,” said Councilwoman Stephanie Hancock, who introduced the measure. “We’re saying — this is your responsibility, and we’re going to hold you to it. But we also want to help you move forward if you’re struggling.”
Chronic Violators Spark Action
One of the key motivations behind the ordinance was the growing list of chronic violators. Councilwoman Hancock said some landlords treat existing fines as the “cost of doing business” rather than a motivation to follow city codes.
A notable example is Aurora landlord Andris Berzins, who owns multiple rental homes in the city and has accumulated dozens of code citations over the years. Despite numerous violations — including unlawful storage and failing to remove trash — Berzins told reporters he sees no issues with his properties.
However, after being summoned to municipal court on June 12, Berzins pleaded guilty and received a $2,650 fine. He’s only required to pay $300 upfront, with the rest waived if he brings his property into compliance by July 22 and maintains that for a full year.
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Stronger Fines as a Last Resort
The ordinance is designed to push for compliance first — not punishment. Still, if a property becomes a danger to the surrounding community, the city now has the legal ability to seek court intervention.
“We want to make it painful if people refuse to come into compliance,” Hancock said, emphasizing that this move is about protecting the well-being of neighbors and improving quality of life in Aurora.
A Message to Property Owners
“This is not about big government control,” Hancock added. “We just want people to be good stewards of the communities they live and do business in.”
The new law goes into effect in early July and represents a growing trend in Aurora’s approach to neighborhood integrity, safety, and livability.
Do you think stricter fines will help clean up neglected properties in your neighborhood? Share your thoughts with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
