Colorado Gun Laws

Colorado operates on the “Shall Issue” policy at the county level. Permits/Licenses are not usually issued to non-residents; however, they may obtain a permit if they can demonstrate good cause, such as owning property in Colorado or frequent travel.

All resident permits are issued by the local county sheriff, while the Department of Public Safety handles applications for non-residents. Applicants are required to demonstrate competency in handling a firearm.

Colorado Gun Laws for Out Of State Visitors:

Out-of-state visitors age 21 and older may legally purchase shotguns, handguns and rifles from licensed firearm dealers in Colorado. Purchasing assault weapons is prohibited for non-residents.

Colorado Gun Laws USCCA:

Colorado recognizes concealed carry permits issued by the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). USCCA permit holders can legally carry concealed handguns subject to Colorado restrictions.

Colorado Gun Laws for Non-Residents:

Non-residents aged 21 and up may purchase or possess rifles, shotguns, and handguns while in Colorado. Permit and background checks are required for sales by dealers. Concealed carry requires obtaining a valid out-of-state permit.

Colorado Gun Laws for 18-Year-Olds:

18-20 year old residents can legally possess handguns in Colorado but cannot purchase them from gun dealers. At age 18 they can purchase and possess rifles and shotguns through private or dealer sales.

Gun Legislation in Colorado:

Colorado has passed several gun laws in recent years mandating universal background checks, limiting magazine capacity, and allowing temporary seizure of firearms from high-risk individuals. Laws remain less stringent than in some neighboring states.

Colorado Gun Laws Quick Facts

Constitutional Carry?

No – Colorado is not a constitutional carry state. A constitutional carry law drafted and put up for a vote in 2022 was struck down 8-5 by the Colorado court.

Open Carry Permitted?

Yes – Currently, there is no specific code indicating that the open carrying of a firearm is illegal. If you’re a resident of Colorado, over 18, and federally allowed to own or possess a firearm, you can open carry. However, specific counties like Denver may prohibit open carry-through posted signs.

Carry In Vehicle?

Yes – Colorado doesn’t require a permit to carry your firearm within your vehicle during travel.

Carry In State Park?

Yes – Colorado allows concealed carry within state and national parks if the individual has a Colorado concealed carry permit or one from a state with reciprocity.

Carry In Restaurants?

Yes – Those with a Colorado concealed carry permit, or a reciprocal permit, may carry in restaurants or establishments serving alcohol, as long as they remain sober.

No Weapon Sign Enforced?

No – Currently, no code enforces no weapons signs by law.

Must Notify Officer?

Yes/No – There’s no specific law requiring you to inform an officer you’re carrying a firearm. However, carrying a permit and valid photo ID at all times while carrying a firearm is essential. Failure to produce these documents when demanded by a law enforcement officer can result in penalties.

Colorado CCW Reciprocity List

States Honoring CCW

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

(Restricted Reciprocity with Colorado)

States NOT Honoring CCW

California
Connecticut
Hawaii
Illinois
Maryland
Massachusetts
Minnesota
Nevada
New Jersey
New York
Oregon
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Washington
Washington D.C

Honors These States CCW Permits

Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Mexico
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

How Reciprocity Works In Colorado

Any individual with an out-of-state concealed carry permit can carry a firearm in Colorado. While in Colorado, they must adhere to local laws and regulations.

Reciprocity Agreements In Colorado

Colorado: Where Is CCW Allowed?

Places Allowed:

State parks
State and national forests
Roadside rest areas
Vehicle
School, if a firearm is left in a locked vehicle
All areas of the state, except those listed as Off-Limits

Places Not Allowed:

Public elementary, middle, junior high, or high school
Secure areas of airports
Public buildings with fixed security checkpoints
Snowmobile (permit for predator control required)
Any place where carrying firearms is prohibited by Federal Law
Public facilities in the city of Aurora
Polling locations

Colorado: Conceal Carry Laws

Open Carry: Yes, open carry is generally legal with exceptions. Without a permit, carrying on public transport is not allowed. Local governments may have regulations banning open carry in certain areas or buildings.

Carry-In Vehicle: If you can lawfully possess a handgun, you can carry it in a private vehicle loaded or unloaded without a permit. Long guns must be unloaded in a vehicle. Public transport varies based on possession legality and valid permits.

Carry-In State Parks: Legal in state parks, state/national forests, and wildlife management areas.

Carry-In Restaurants: Carrying in areas serving alcohol is legal if sober, but legal advice often discourages this due to potential risks.

Constitutional Carry: Not allowed in Colorado.

No Weapon Signs Enforced: “No Weapons” signs aren’t enforced unless specifically mentioned in the law.

Must Notify Officer: Colorado doesn’t require a “duty to inform,” but carrying the permit and ID is necessary. Failure to do so can lead to penalties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating Colorado’s concealed carry laws requires an understanding of various regulations and restrictions. While the state follows a “Shall Issue” policy, both residents and non-residents must adhere to specific guidelines when carrying firearms. Open carry is generally permitted, but there are exceptions based on local regulations. Carrying in vehicles, state parks, and restaurants has its nuances, and it’s essential to be aware of the specific rules for each situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can non-residents obtain a concealed carry permit in Colorado?

Currently, non-residents can obtain a concealed carry permit in Colorado if they can demonstrate good cause, such as owning property or having frequent travel in the state.

Is open carry legal in Colorado?

Yes, open carry is generally legal in Colorado, with a few exceptions. However, certain counties, like Denver, may have regulations that restrict open carry in specific buildings or areas.

Can I carry a firearm in my vehicle in Colorado?

Yes, you can carry a firearm in your vehicle in Colorado without a permit, as long as you can legally possess the firearm. Handguns can be loaded or unloaded, while long guns must be unloaded.

4. Can I carry my concealed firearm in state parks?

Yes, concealed carry is allowed in state parks, state and national forests, and other designated areas as long as you have a valid Colorado concealed carry permit or a reciprocal permit from another state.

5. Are “No Weapons” signs legally enforceable in Colorado?

No, “No Weapons” signs do not hold legal weight in Colorado unless specifically mentioned in the law. There are no legal penalties for entering places with such signs posted.