Colorado is an open carry state — but with major local restrictions that can turn a lawful carry into a criminal charge if you’re not careful. Open carry is legal in many areas, banned in others, and regulated differently depending on the jurisdiction.

This guide breaks down exactly where you can and cannot open carry in Colorado.

✅ Colorado Allows Open Carry

Colorado has no statewide prohibition on open carry. If you can legally possess a firearm, you may openly carry a handgun in most public places without a permit.

But because Colorado is a home-rule state, cities and counties can enact their own firearms ordinances — and several do.

❌ Where Open Carry Is Banned in Colorado

Two Colorado cities currently ban open carry citywide:

🔴 Denver – Full Open Carry Ban

• Illegal across the entire City and County of Denver
• Only concealed carry with a valid CHP is permitted

🔴 Boulder – Full Open Carry Ban

• Illegal throughout the City of Boulder
• CHP holders may still carry concealed, but additional sensitive-area restrictions apply

These bans are legally valid due to municipal home-rule authority.

❌ Other Places Where Open Carry Is Forbidden

Regardless of the city you’re in, open carry is prohibited in:

• K–12 schools
• Most college campuses
• Federal buildings (post offices, courthouses, federal offices)
• Secure airport areas
• Private property with posted “No Firearms” signs

Some municipalities also ban open carry inside specific government buildings and parks even if they don’t ban it citywide.

✅ Where Open Carry Is Generally Allowed

Outside of Denver and Boulder, open carry is usually legal in:

• Most Colorado cities and counties
• State parks and many local parks
• National forests, grasslands, and BLM land
• Rural areas, campgrounds, and hiking trails
• Any business that does not prohibit firearms

Because Colorado allows local gun control, laws can change block-by-block. Responsible carriers should stay aware of city boundaries and posted restrictions.

Should You Open Carry in Colorado?

Even where legal, open carry can create unnecessary challenges:

• It draws public attention
• It can result in more police interactions
• Increases the risk of firearm-grab attempts
• Easy to unknowingly cross into Denver or Boulder
• Concealed carry is legally consistent statewide

Most trained carriers choose concealed carry for both practical and safety reasons.

Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry

Colorado is a shall-issue concealed handgun permit (CHP) state.

Concealed carry offers significant advantages:

• Legal statewide (including Denver and Boulder)
• Less public alarm
• Better firearm retention and concealment
• Lower risk of trespassing or ordinance violations
• Tactical advantage in real-world situations

While open carry is lawful in many areas, concealed carry remains the more responsible choice for most gun owners.

Colorado Open Carry FAQ (Q&A)

Q: Is Colorado an open carry state?

A: Yes. Open carry is legal statewide except where local bans exist, such as Denver and Boulder.

Q: Do I need a permit for open carry?

A: No. A permit is only required for concealed carry.

Q: Which cities ban open carry?

A: Denver (full ban) & Boulder (full ban)

Q: Can I open carry a rifle or long gun in Colorado?

A: Legally yes — but it is strongly discouraged. Open carrying a rifle in public almost always triggers alarmed 911 calls, frequently reported as a “man with a gun” or even an active shooter.
Law enforcement will respond aggressively and with limited information.
Even if legal, it is tactically unsound and potentially dangerous.

Q: Can I open carry in Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, or Fort Collins?

A: Generally yes. These cities do not have citywide bans, but local restrictions may apply in certain posted buildings or parks.

Q: Can private businesses prohibit open carry?

A: Yes. Businesses may ban open carry or all firearms. Ignoring posted signs can result in trespassing charges.

Q: Is open carry allowed in Colorado State Parks?

A: Yes, unless the specific area posts a prohibition.

Q: Can I open carry in bars or restaurants that serve alcohol?

A: Yes, unless the business prohibits firearms.
However, being intoxicated while armed is illegal in Colorado. For a full article on this subject, visit: Can You A Firearm Into A Bar In Colorado

Q: Can police stop me for open carrying?

A: They may approach or investigate, especially if someone calls 911, but open carry itself is lawful in most of the state.

Q: Is concealed carry better than open carry?

A: In most cases, yes. Concealed carry avoids unnecessary attention, reduces risk, and ensures compliance statewide.

Q: Can I open carry in my vehicle?

A: Yes. Colorado allows open or concealed carry inside a private vehicle without a permit.

Q: What happens if I accidentally open carry in Denver or Boulder?

A: You can be cited or charged. Crossing into a restricted jurisdiction unknowingly does not excuse the violation.

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Legal Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently at the state and local level, and enforcement may vary by jurisdiction. Readers are responsible for verifying all current laws and regulations before carrying a firearm openly or concealed.
US Firearms Training Academy, its instructors, and affiliates make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information and assume no liability for actions taken based on its content. For legal guidance specific to your situation, consult a qualified attorney licensed in Colorado.