Is Open Carry Legal in Colorado? (2026)
Partially — Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Colorado as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: There have been no major recent changes to Colorado's general open carry laws, but new legislation in 2025 has added restrictions on certain types of firearms.
Quick Answer
Open Carry is legal in Colorado. Colorado is an open carry state, meaning you can openly carry a firearm in most public places. However, the City and County of Denver has a local ordinance (Denver Revised Municipal Code Section 38-117.5) that prohibits open carry of firearms, and this local ban was upheld as valid. Other municipalities may also have local restrictions. Colorado does require a concealed carry permit (CHP) for concealed carry, issued by county sheriffs.
- Age restriction: Must be 18 or older to open carry
- License or permit required
What the Law Says
While Colorado state law permits open carry, it allows local governments to enact their own restrictions. For example, the City and County of Denver prohibits open carry, and violation is a misdemeanor.
— Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Carry Rules | Legal for adults 18 and older to openly carry firearms in most of Colorado. No permit required for open carry at the state level. Denver prohibits open carry within city limits. Private property owners may prohibit firearms. |
| Permit Requirements | Legal to purchase firearms from licensed dealers (FFL) and through private sales. Background checks required for all firearm transfers including private sales under Colorado law. |
| Penalties | Open carrying in Denver is a misdemeanor punishable by up to $999 fine and/or up to 300 days in jail. Carrying in prohibited locations (schools, government buildings) is a separate offense. |
| Minimum Age | Must be 18 or older to open carry. Must be 21 to purchase handguns from licensed dealers (federal law). Must be 21 for concealed carry permit. |
| Pending Legislation | Colorado has been considering additional firearms regulations in recent legislative sessions. |
There have been no major recent changes to Colorado's general open carry laws, but new legislation in 2025 has added restrictions on certain types of firearms.
Enforcement Reality
Colorado state law allows for open carry of a firearm without a permit for individuals 18 and older. However, local jurisdictions can and do regulate open carry, with Denver being a notable example where it is prohibited.
A common mistake is assuming that the statewide open carry law applies in all cities and counties. It is crucial to be aware of local ordinances, such as the ban on open carry in Denver.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Colorado. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Colorado. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Colorado vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, open carrying a firearm is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 45, and illegal in 5. Colorado falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Open Carry:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is open carrying a firearm legal in Colorado?
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What mistakes do people make with open carrying a firearm in Colorado?
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Is Colorado changing its open carry laws?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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