Is Right Turn on Red Legal in Colorado? (2026)
Yes — Right Turn on Red is legal in Colorado as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: Some cities like Denver are considering restricting right turns on red for safety, but there are no statewide changes in 2023-2024.
Quick Answer
Right turn on red is legal in Colorado after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and cross traffic, unless a sign prohibits it at a specific intersection. Some cities like Denver are considering restricting right turns on red for safety, but there are no statewide changes in 202...
What the Law Says
Colorado law permits a right turn on a red light after a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other traffic.
— Colo. Rev. Stat. § 42-4-604
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Rule | Legal after complete stop |
| Exceptions & Restrictions | N/A |
| Traffic Violation Penalty | Traffic violation if sign prohibits it at specific intersection. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Some cities like Denver are considering restricting right turns on red for safety, but there are no statewide changes in 2023-2024.
Enforcement Reality
Police enforce a full stop before a right turn on red, and a red arrow prohibits the turn entirely. Red light cameras are also in use.
A common mistake is failing to come to a complete stop before the limit line. Another is turning on a red arrow, which is illegal.
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
Right Turn on Red is legal in Colorado. You can turning right on red without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Colorado vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, turning right on red is fully legal in 49 states, restricted in 1, and illegal in 0. Colorado falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Right Turn on Red:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is turning right on red legal in Colorado?
Can you turn right on red in Colorado?
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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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