Gun laws in the United States vary significantly from one state to another. Some states have adopted what is commonly referred to as constitutional carry, which allows individuals to carry firearms without obtaining a permit. This has raised a pressing question for many residents and visitors: does Colorado have constitutional carry law?
Colorado is a state known for its rugged mountains, outdoor culture, and a mix of urban and rural communities with differing perspectives on firearm rights. Because of this diversity, the state’s stance on gun laws reflects a blend of liberal and conservative values. Understanding whether Colorado permits constitutional carry requires a deeper dive into concealed carry permits, open carry regulations, state-specific firearm rules, and ongoing debates within Colorado’s legislature.
Does Colorado have constitutional carry law?
No, Colorado does not have constitutional carry law. Colorado requires a permit for concealed carry of firearms, unlike states with permitless or constitutional carry. Open carry is legal in most areas, though some cities restrict it. Residents and visitors must comply with state and local firearm regulations.
Colorado Gun Laws Constitutional Carry and Permit Rules
Constitutional carry refers to the right of individuals to carry firearms openly or concealed without needing a government-issued permit. Sometimes called permitless carry, this concept is rooted in the interpretation of the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. In recent years, many states have adopted this approach, eliminating permit requirements for law-abiding citizens.
However, Colorado is not one of those states. Instead, the state maintains a framework that requires permits for concealed carry. This ensures that individuals undergo background checks and meet eligibility requirements before being granted the right to carry a concealed weapon.
Colorado’s decision to uphold a permit system reflects a balance between protecting gun rights and ensuring public safety. Unlike states such as Texas or Arizona, which allow permitless carry, Colorado lawmakers continue to emphasise regulation. This approach mirrors the state’s diverse demographics and urban-rural divide. Urban centres like Denver and Boulder typically favour stricter firearm regulations, while rural communities lean toward broader freedoms.
The distinction between open carry and concealed carry adds another layer to the debate. Open carry, where firearms are visible, is generally legal in Colorado with limited restrictions. Concealed carry, however, requires a permit issued by county sheriffs. This dual system demonstrates that while Colorado upholds the right to bear arms, it does not currently embrace constitutional carry.
Colorado Concealed Carry Permits and Open Carry Rules
Colorado’s firearm regulations balance individual rights with public safety. The state outlines clear rules for concealed carry, open carry, and training requirements.
Permit Requirements for Concealed Carry
Colorado requires a concealed carry permit for anyone wishing to carry a concealed handgun. The permit is issued at the county level by sheriffs and requires a background check, fingerprinting, and in some cases, firearm training certification.
Open Carry Rules Across the State
Open carry is generally permitted, but certain municipalities, such as Denve,r have enacted local bans. This demonstrates how state law interacts with local autonomy, where cities can pass stricter rules when deemed necessary for public safety.
Training and Eligibility Standards
Applicants for concealed carry permits must meet age requirements (21 or older), complete firearms training courses, and pass a background check. Training often covers firearm safety, laws regarding use of force, and conflict avoidance.
Renewals and Restrictions
Concealed carry permits in Colorado must be renewed every five years. There are also restrictions regarding carrying in schools, federal buildings, courthouses, and private properties with “no firearms” signage.
This structured approach allows Colorado to maintain oversight of who carries firearms while still granting broad access to responsible individuals. It is somewhat like asking, “How Many Alarms Do I Have Set”—it reflects not just permission, but also careful management and regulation.
Why Colorado Has Not Adopted Constitutional Carry
Colorado has not adopted constitutional carry due to political, cultural, and safety considerations. Below are the main reasons:
- Urban-Rural Divide – Denver and Boulder favour stricter rules, while rural counties push for fewer restrictions.
- Legislative Balance – Lawmakers often strike compromises between conservative and liberal agendas.
- Public Safety Concerns – Opponents argue that permit requirements ensure proper background checks.
- Historical Precedent – Colorado has long maintained a regulatory system around firearms.
- Local Control – Cities are granted authority to impose firearm restrictions, making a statewide shift difficult.
- Ongoing Debate – Both advocacy groups and legislators continue to contest the future of constitutional carry in Colorado.
How Colorado Compares With Other States on Permitless Carry
In recent years, constitutional carry—often referred to as permitless carry—has become a defining issue in firearm legislation across the United States. As of 2025, more than half of the states have embraced this approach, allowing law-abiding citizens to carry firearms without the need for a government-issued permit. Several of Colorado’s neighbouring states, including Texas, Arizona, and Utah, have already taken this step, creating a clear regional trend that emphasises expanded gun rights and fewer regulatory barriers.
Colorado, however, has chosen not to follow the same path. Instead, it continues to maintain a framework that requires concealed carry permits, ensuring that individuals undergo background checks and, in many cases, complete training before being legally allowed to carry a concealed weapon. This distinction places Colorado in contrast with many of its neighbours and highlights the diversity of firearm policies that exist across the country.
The differences between states have created what many call a patchwork of firearm regulations. A traveller might move from a state that permits carrying a firearm without restrictions into Colorado, where a valid permit is still required. This sudden change in legal standards can be confusing for individuals who are unaware of the state’s rules and can even lead to unintended violations. The situation underscores the importance of understanding local laws, particularly in a region where the rules vary so widely across state borders.
Debunking Myths About Constitutional Carry in Colorado
Many misconceptions surround Colorado’s gun laws. While open carry is often legal, concealed carry still requires permits, and constitutional carry is not in effect.
Misconceptions About Colorado Gun Laws
Discussions about constitutional carry in Colorado are often clouded by myths and misinformation. Many assume that Colorado has already joined the growing list of states that allow permitless carry, but this is not the case. While open carry is legal in many parts of the state, concealed carry still requires a permit, and the system is carefully structured to balance rights with responsibilities.
Colorado Is Not a Constitutional Carry State
One of the most common misconceptions is that Colorado recognises constitutional carry. In reality, the state continues to require permits for concealed handguns. These permits are issued at the county level and involve background checks, eligibility requirements, and, in some cases, training. This ensures that concealed carry remains regulated rather than entirely unrestricted.
Open Carry Does Not Equal Constitutional Carry
Another myth is the belief that open carry is the same as constitutional carry. While it is true that Colorado generally permits open carry, this does not eliminate the need for concealed carry permits. The two are separate categories under state law, and assuming they are interchangeable can lead to legal trouble.
Local Restrictions and Legislative Realities
Some believe that local governments cannot restrict firearm rights, but cities like Denver demonstrate otherwise. Denver has enacted stricter firearm rules, including restrictions on open carry, showing that local authority plays an important role in shaping firearm policy. Similarly, the idea that constitutional carry will never reach Colorado is also misleading. While not currently law, the topic continues to be debated in legislative sessions and could resurface in the future depending on political momentum.
Balancing Rights With Public Safety
Colorado’s firearm framework reflects an effort to respect Second Amendment rights while ensuring public safety through oversight. By maintaining concealed carry permits and allowing local regulations, the state positions itself between unregulated permitless carry and more restrictive approaches seen elsewhere.
Conclusion
So, does Colorado have constitutional carry law? As of 2025, the answer is no. Colorado requires concealed carry permits, while open carry is broadly allowed with certain restrictions. The debate is ongoing, reflecting a tension between preserving Second Amendment rights and ensuring public safety. By understanding the details of Colorado’s system, residents and visitors can stay compliant and make informed decisions.
FAQ’s
Can I openly carry a gun in Denver?
No. Although Colorado generally permits open carry, the City of Denver has implemented its own ban, meaning firearms cannot be openly carried within city limits.
What do I need for a concealed carry permit in Colorado?
Applicants must be at least 21 years old, successfully complete an approved firearms training course, and undergo a background check with fingerprinting before receiving a permit.
How does Colorado compare to Texas on gun laws?
Texas has embraced constitutional carry, allowing most law-abiding adults to carry without a permit. Colorado, by contrast, maintains its permit requirement for concealed carry.
Is constitutional carry being considered in Colorado?
Yes. Proposals are introduced periodically in the state legislature, though they face significant opposition from urban lawmakers and advocacy groups that favour stricter gun control.
Do local governments in Colorado control gun laws?
Yes. Local cities and municipalities hold the authority to enact their own firearm restrictions, which is why rules can differ significantly between rural counties and urban areas.
