Colorado Gun Laws: What You Should Know

USCCA - 05/20/2019

As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on gun laws…

Colorado gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in your state. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Colorado gun laws.

Can You Have a Gun in Your Car in Colorado?

Yes, you can carry a loaded, concealed firearm in a vehicle in Colorado. A permit is not required to carry a gun in your car.

Which States Have Reciprocity With Colorado?

The Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon (CCW) is honored in 35 states. The USCCA Reciprocity Map provides detailed information on those states, along with restrictions that apply.

Do You Need a Permit to Open Carry in Colorado?

No. Open carry is legal in Colorado except in Denver County and other posted areas. The minimum age is 18 years old. Local governments may enact regulations prohibiting open carrying of firearms in a building or specific area within the local government’s jurisdiction (as long as signs are posted).

Do I Need a Concealed Carry Permit in Colorado?

Yes. Concealed carry is legal in Colorado for residents with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon (CCW) and non-residents of states with which Colorado has reciprocity agreements. CCW permits can be issued to any resident at least 21 years old and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. Concealed carry permits require a firearms training course that has been state-approved.

Is Colorado a Stand Your Ground State?

While Colorado doesn’t have a “stand your ground” law, it is a Castle Doctrine state. It grants its citizens the “right to expect absolute safety within their own homes.” A person is justified in using physical force on another person in order to defend himself, herself or a third person. He or she may use a degree of force reasonably believed to be necessary to stop the attack of another person. There is no duty to retreat, and the law applies at a person’s residence or in another dwelling, which is referred to as a “make my day” statute. There is a duty to retreat outside a person’s residence. You may not legally use deadly force in Colorado in order to protect any other type of property.

Do You Have to Register a Gun in Colorado?

No. Firearms purchase permits or firearms registration are not required for handguns in Colorado.

Can You Carry a Gun While Hiking in Colorado?

Yes, with a valid Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon (CCW) or a resident permit from a state with which Colorado has reciprocity. A handgun may be carried in Colorado parks, including state and national parks.

Ready to Learn More About Colorado Gun Laws?

It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA’s Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map has been designed to help inform and educate armed citizens like you. To learn more about Colorado’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit the Colorado gun laws page now…