Carrying a firearm into a bar is one of the most misunderstood areas in Colorado concealed carry law. You’ll hear people say, “It’s illegal to carry in any bar,” or “You can’t have a gun anywhere alcohol is served.”
Both are wrong.
Colorado law does not prohibit you from carrying a firearm into a bar, restaurant, or any place that serves alcohol. But — and this is the part most people get wrong — your behavior while carrying absolutely can get you arrested.
This guide breaks down what’s legal, what’s illegal, and the mistakes that get well-intended CCW holders into handcuffs.
Is It Legal to Carry a Firearm Into a Bar in Colorado?
Yes.
Colorado has no statewide law that bans firearms in bars, nightclubs, breweries, or restaurants.
You can legally carry:
- Open carry (unless local law says otherwise)
- Concealed carry with a valid CHP
But there are important conditions.
The Big Catch: You Cannot Be “Under the Influence” While Carrying
Colorado law is very clear:
CRS 18-12-106(1)(d): Prohibited Use of Weapons
It is a crime to possess a firearm while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.
Colorado does not define a specific BAC limit for being “under the influence” with a firearm. This gives officers and prosecutors broad discretion.
Meaning:
✔ You can carry in a bar
✘ You cannot be impaired in any way
✘ You cannot drink to the point where an officer believes you’re a safety risk
Even one drink can potentially be used against you if something happens.
Can You Drink Alcohol While Carrying?
Legally:
Yes, but it’s risky.
Practically:
Don’t.
Not if you want to stay out of jail.
Colorado officers and prosecutors have wide latitude. If they believe you “appear under the influence while armed,” they can charge you.
Two beers + a firearm + a tense interaction = a criminal case.
USFTA Recommendation:
If you’re carrying, treat alcohol the same way you treat driving — but with even MORE caution.
What About Bars That Post “No Firearms” Signs?
Colorado is not a “signs have force of law” state.
A sign does not automatically make carrying illegal.
BUT:
If the business asks you to leave, you must leave. If you refuse, you can be charged with trespassing.
What Happens If You Get Into a Self-Defense Incident in a Bar?
This is where things get dangerous — legally.
Even if your use of force was justified under CRS 18-1-704, prosecutors will look at:
- Did you drink?
- How much?
- Were you impaired?
- Did alcohol contribute to the conflict?
Self-defense cases involving alcohol almost always become high-risk.
If you plan to drink more than a token amount, leave the firearm at home.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry in Bars
Open Carry
- Legal statewide
- Denver bans open carry
- Some cities restrict it
- Bars may find it alarming and call police
- Officers may assume intoxication
Concealed Carry
- Legal
- Discreet
- Less likely to cause public disturbance
- Still illegal if you are impaired
Most responsible carriers choose concealment in alcohol-serving environments.
Places Where You STILL Cannot Carry (Alcohol or Not)
Even with a CHP, Colorado forbids carry in:
| Location / Institution | Restriction Type |
| Denver City Buildings | No carry at all (CHP doesn’t apply) |
| City & County of Denver | Open carry prohibited |
| Boulder Parks & Rec Facilities | No firearms allowed |
| Boulder (Citywide) | Open carry prohibited |
| CU Boulder / CSU / UNC (Inside Buildings) | Concealed carry prohibited indoors |
| CU/CSU/UNC (Campus Grounds) | Outdoor areas may allow carry |
| Hospitals | Prohibited in most Colorado hospitals |
| Medical Facilities (Urgent Cares, Doctors Offices & Etc.) | Prohibited at most facilities – check for “No Firearms” signage |
| DIA Airport | Total firearm ban (except for checking in a firearm for transporting – click here for more info) |
| Military Bases | Prohibited without written authorization |
| Correctional Facilities (Jails/Prisons) | Prohibited |
| Legislative Buildings/Meetings | Prohibited |
| Federal Buildings & Courthouses | Prohibited |
| Local/County Courthouses | Prohibited |
| Native American Reservations | Restricted (tribal law varies) |
| College or University Buildings (Public & Private) | Prohibited Inside |
| Public & Private K-12 (In Vehicle w/ CHP) | Permitted if firearm stays in vehicle |
| Private Property with Posted Signs | Carry prohibited if posted “No Firearms” |
Bars are not on the prohibited list.
Practical Advice From a Firearms Instructor
As a full-time concealed carry and defensive firearms instructor, my guidance is simple:
If you’re carrying, avoid alcohol.
If you choose to drink:
- Keep it to one drink
- Stay fully in control
- Leave the moment you feel even slightly impaired
- Never argue, escalate, or stay in a heated environment
Firearm + alcohol + conflict = lost permit, arrest, and possibly prison.
FAQ
Can I carry into a bar if I’m not drinking?
Yes.
Can the bar ask me to leave?
Yes — and you must comply.
Can I drink while carrying?
You legally can, but doing so puts you at major legal risk.
If I defend myself after drinking, can I still claim self-defense?
Yes, but prosecutors will scrutinize your impairment heavily.
Final Answer
✔ You CAN legally carry a firearm into a bar in Colorado.
✘ You CANNOT be intoxicated or impaired in any way.
If you choose to carry, treat alcohol like a threat to your freedom — because it absolutely can become one.
Ready to Train?
US Firearms Training Academy offers:
- Colorado Concealed Carry (New & Renewal)
- Basic Pistol 101
- Defensive Pistol
- Court-Ordered Gun Safety Classes
- Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC) Training — 4hr & 12hr
- Self Defense Insurance Comparison
- What Is Felony Menacing In Colorado?
Train with certified, state-verified instructors recognized under CRS 18-12-203(1)(h)(I) — the same statute that authorizes concealed handgun instructors in Colorado.
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