What Can a Handyman Do Without a License in Aurora, Colorado?

Colorado does not issue a single statewide “general contractor” license for handymen; contractor licensing is primarily handled by the local jurisdiction that issues building permits (Aurora for work in Aurora). However, Colorado DOES require state licenses for certain trades (notably electrical and plumbing), and Aurora requires contractor registration/licensing to pull permits for most construction work. A common “handyman exemption” in Colorado is not a statewide dollar threshold—limits are typically set by the city through permit requirements and trade-license laws (e.g., you cannot do unlicensed electrical/plumbing regardless of job size).

The magic number in CO: $None. Jobs under $None (labor + materials combined) don't require a contractor license — you can take those as a handyman. Jobs at or above $None require a contractor license. Know your number, know your limit.

✅ What You Can Do Without a License

Painting (interior/exterior) where no lead-based paint abatement certification is required
Minor drywall patching and texture repair (non-structural)
Basic carpentry such as trim/baseboard installation and non-structural shelving
Cabinet hardware changes (pulls/knobs), door hardware replacement, locksets (non-fire-rated door assemblies in commercial settings may have special rules)
Caulking, grouting, tile repair that does not involve moving plumbing lines or installing new plumbing fixtures requiring permit
Fence repairs (where not structural/engineered and where local zoning allows) — permits may still be required depending on height/location
Gutter cleaning/repair and minor exterior maintenance
Assembling prefabricated furniture/sheds/playsets where no building permit is required by Aurora for that size/type

Common Jobs Handymen Take in Aurora

Based on the CO threshold, handymen in Aurora commonly take on:

Painting (interior/exterior) where no lead-based paint abatement certification is required
Minor drywall patching and texture repair (non-structural)
Basic carpentry such as trim/baseboard installation and non-structural shelving
Cabinet hardware changes (pulls/knobs), door hardware replacement, locksets (non-fire-rated door assemblies in commercial settings may have special rules)
Caulking, grouting, tile repair that does not involve moving plumbing lines or installing new plumbing fixtures requiring permit
Fence repairs (where not structural/engineered and where local zoning allows) — permits may still be required depending on height/location
Gutter cleaning/repair and minor exterior maintenance
Assembling prefabricated furniture/sheds/playsets where no building permit is required by Aurora for that size/type

⚠️ What Requires a License

Electrical contracting/installation/rewiring (state electrical license required; permits/inspections typically required). This includes new circuits, panel work, most outlet/switch additions, and hardwired equipment.
Plumbing contracting/installation/alteration (state plumbing license required; permits/inspections typically required). This includes moving/adding supply or drain lines, water heater replacement in many jurisdictions, and most remodel plumbing rough-in.
Work that requires pulling a building permit in Aurora often requires Aurora contractor registration/licensing (even for general remodeling).
Structural work (removing load-bearing walls, framing changes, engineered headers/beams) typically requires permits and may require a licensed/registered contractor and engineered plans.
Roofing replacement often requires permitting and contractor registration; hail-region roofing has additional insurance/contracting compliance risks.
Mechanical system installs (furnaces, AC, ducting changes) require mechanical permits; refrigerant handling requires EPA 608 certification.
Gas piping changes (often permitted/inspected; may require specific licensed professionals per local code/utility requirements).

What to Tell Clients About Your Scope of Work

In CO, you can take jobs under $None (labor + materials) without a contractor license. When a client asks, be straightforward: for jobs under this threshold, you're operating legally as a handyman. For larger projects, refer them to a licensed contractor or get licensed before bidding that work.

Business License — Aurora

Required. City of Aurora Business License (and Contractor Licensing/Registration for construction)

Setting Up Your Business in CO

To get paid professionally and protect yourself, register your business. LLC filing fee in CO: $50 (one-time). You'll also need a free EIN from the IRS and a business checking account.

Your Next Steps to Operating Legally in Aurora

Step 1: Form your business (LLC) with the Colorado Secretary of State (LLC filing fee $50).
Step 2: Contact Aurora to determine (a) business license needs and (b) contractor registration/licensing classification needed to pull permits for your scope.
Step 3: Obtain general liability insurance (and workers’ comp if you have employees).
Step 4: If you will touch electrical or plumbing, pursue the appropriate Colorado state trade licensing path or subcontract those portions to licensed trades; verify requirements with DORA DPO.

Research generated by AI. Verify all requirements with your local licensing authority before making business decisions.