Colorado is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, but it’s also home to some of the strictest gun laws in the country. Gun owners in Colorado must comply with both federal and state gun laws, which can be confusing. In this blog post, we will discuss federal gun laws, as well as Colorado’s weapons laws under titles 18 and 33. We will also cover who can open carry in Colorado, where you can’t open carry, and what is needed to obtain a CCW permit.
At Colorado Handgun Safety, it is our goal to provide you with the highest quality gun safety education. We offer a variety of classes, including concealed carry and home defense, to meet your needs. Our world-class instructors are passionate about gun safety and are here to help you learn everything you need to know about Colorado’s gun laws.
Federal Gun Laws
All gun owners in the United States must comply with federal gun laws. These laws are set by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and cover everything from background checks to gun ownership by felons.
Gun Laws in Colorado
In Colorado, gun laws are governed by two statutes: Title 18 and Title 33. Title 18 covers the carrying of concealed weapons, while Title 33 deals with open carry regulations.
Colorado Weapons Laws: Title 18
It is illegal to carry a concealed weapon without a permit in Colorado. There are some restrictions on who can carry a concealed weapon in Colorado. For example, felons and certain individuals with mental health issues are not allowed to possess firearms. Additionally, there are certain places where carrying a concealed weapon is not permitted, even with a permit. These places include schools, government buildings, and private businesses that have posted signs prohibiting firearms.
What is a CCW Permit?
A CCW permit, also known as a concealed carry permit, allows you to carry a concealed weapon in Colorado. To obtain a permit, you must complete an application and submit it to your local sheriff’s office.
How Do I Get a CCW Permit?
To get a CCW permit in Colorado, you must complete an application and submit it to your local sheriff’s office. The sheriff will then conduct a background check and issue the permit if you are found to be eligible.
Colorado Weapons Laws: Title 33
Title 33 of the Colorado Revised Statutes deals with open carry regulations. In Colorado, you do not need a permit to openly carry a handgun in public. However, there are some restrictions on where you can carry your gun. For example, you cannot open carry in schools or government buildings. Additionally, private businesses can prohibit firearms on their premises by posting signs stating such.
Who Can Open Carry in Colorado?
In Colorado, any person 21 years of age or older can open carry a handgun in public. There is no permit required, but you must comply with all state and federal gun laws.
Open Carry Restrictions
There are some places where you cannot open carry your gun, even if you have a valid permit. These places include:
- Schools
- Government buildings
- Private businesses that have posted signs prohibiting firearms
Areas You Can’t Open Carry in Colorado
There are some areas where open carry is prohibited by state law, even if the property owner has not posted signs prohibiting firearms. These places include:
- Colleges and universities
- Airports
- Amusement parks
- Sports stadiums and arenas
Who Is Prohibited from Owning a Gun in Colorado?
Certain people are prohibited from owning a gun in Colorado. These people include:
- Felons
- Individuals with certain mental health issues
- People under the age of 21
- People who have been convicted of certain misdemeanors, such as domestic violence
Get the Best Gun Education with Colorado Handgun Safety
Colorado has some strict gun laws, but there are also some areas where gun owners can exercise their rights. It is important to familiarize yourself with both state and federal gun laws before carrying a firearm in public.
At Colorado Handgun Safety, we offer a variety of courses to help gun owners learn about responsible gun ownership and safety. Our courses are designed for both novice and experienced shooters, and our NRA-certified instructors are here to help you get the highest gun education across the Front Range. Contact us today to learn more about our courses and how we can help you stay safe while exercising your gun rights!
