Colorado Gun Laws | Department of Public Safety

With a heightened focus on firearms across the United States, Colorado residents who own guns face critical questions about legally carrying concealed weapons in their state. While the laws in Colorado allow for concealed carry, they continue evolving.

As leading criminal defense attorneys, staying on top of the ever-changing legislation is our duty. It should be your right.

Exercising your Second Amendment rights requires more than just a permit. Responsible concealed carry demands understanding. The kind of insight only seasoned Colorado firearm lawyers possess from years of study and court battles.

We’ve mapped Colorado’s concealed carry regulations in detail so law-abiding gun owners NEVER unwittingly violate restrictive carry zones.

Here’s everything you should know about concealed carry in Colorado.

Requirements for Obtaining a Colorado Concealed Carry Permit

Before carrying a concealed handgun in Colorado, you must fulfill certain requirements to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon.

Under C.R.S. 18-12-203, the application process includes:

• Submitting fingerprints
• Undergoing a background check
• Providing proof of residency
• Demonstration of competence with a handgun (ex., Honorable discharge from the military, retirement from law enforcement, or training certificate from a firearms training course)

You must also be at least 21 years old and not prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law. Once all requirements have been met, the applicant can submit their application and the required processing fee. Colorado law enforcement agencies and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation are responsible for issuing permits to carry concealed firearms.

Who is Prohibited From Owning Firearms in Colorado?

Colorado state law prohibits convicted felons, those suffering from a serious mental health condition, those subject to a protection order, and those convicted of a domestic violence offense from possessing a firearm in the state.

It’s important to note that these are just some of the most common restrictions, and other factors could prevent someone from owning firearms in Colorado. It’s always advisable to consult with an attorney for guidance on specific cases.

Where You Can and Can NOT Carry Your Firearm

As a concealed carry permit holder in Colorado, it’s important to know where you can and cannot carry your firearm. Certain places are prohibited by law, such as government buildings and schools. Additionally, it’s crucial to understand the concept of reciprocity with other states, which determines whether or not your Colorado permit is valid in other states and vice versa.

Knowing these key points will help ensure that you stay within the bounds of the law while exercising your right to carry a concealed weapon.

Prohibited Places, Such as Government Buildings and Schools

Carrying a concealed firearm in public buildings and public and private schools in Colorado is illegal. Examples of these types of buildings include courthouses, police stations, and elementary through college-level school grounds.

Violating this law can result in serious consequences such as fines, jail time, and your concealed carry permit loss. Therefore, knowing where you can legally carry your firearm is important to avoid any legal issues.

Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

If you’re traveling out of state with your CCW permit, it’s important to research the reciprocity agreements between Colorado and other states.

While some states have agreements with Colorado, allowing for the legal carrying of firearms across state lines, others do not. It is essential to understand these reciprocity challenges before embarking on any interstate travel.

It’s also worth noting that even if a state has a reciprocity agreement with Colorado, specific restrictions may still exist. For example, certain buildings or locations within those states may prohibit firearms altogether.

Thoroughly research the reciprocity agreement and any location-specific restrictions before traveling with a firearm across state lines.

Renewal and Revocation of Concealed Carry Permits

Your Colorado CCW permit isn’t permanent, so keep track of the expiration date. The renewal process requires submitting an application to the sheriff’s office in the county where you currently live.

If you fail to renew by expiration, you could face charges of carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit. It’s important to note that your concealed carry permit may be revoked if you violate any state or federal gun laws or become ineligible due to mental health issues or criminal activity.

Penalties for Violating Colorado’s Concealed Carry Laws

If you break the rules of Colorado’s CCW laws, be prepared to face severe consequences such as fines, imprisonment, and loss of firearm privileges.

Here are potential weapons charges and penalties that can result from violating Colorado’s concealed weapons laws:

• Carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit (first-time): This is a Class 1 misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment for up to 364 days, or both.
• Carrying a concealed without a valid permit (second or subsequent offense within five years): This is a Class 5 felony offense punishable by a fine of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 3 years in prison (2 years of mandatory parole), or both.
• Carrying a concealed weapon while under the influence of alcohol or drugs: This is a Class 2 misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine of up to $750, imprisonment for up to 120 days, or both.
• Carrying a deadly weapon on school grounds: This is a Class 6 felony offense punishable by a fine of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 1 ½ years, or both.

It is the responsibility of every gun owner to be familiar with Colorado’s firearm laws and regulations. Failure to comply with state laws can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and revocation of the permit to carry.

To avoid legal issues, it is advisable to consult a qualified attorney before carrying your firearm in public.

Contact a Colorado Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one find yourselves facing concealed carry or weapons charges, don’t leave your fate to chance with a less qualified defense. Right Law Group brings decades of combined experience resolving thousands of criminal cases across Colorado. Our relentless former prosecutors know the laws – and just as critical – the defense strategies for the strongest likelihood of rights protection and penalty reduction.

With local offices in three regions and hundreds of positive reviews affirming client successes, we have a proven reputation for delivering outcomes that resurrect hope. Don’t wait another minute wondering if there are sufficient concealed carry defenses in your case. Contact Right Law Group today.