What Colorado Law Allows for Firearm Carry in Lakewood — and Where It Is Prohibited

Yes — you may legally carry a firearm in Lakewood, as long as you comply with Colorado state law and applicable local restrictions. Lakewood does not have a city-wide firearm ban and largely mirrors state statutes, but location-based prohibitions and vehicle rules still apply.

This guide breaks down open carry, concealed carry, vehicle carry, and restricted locations as they specifically affect Lakewood.

Is Open Carry Legal in Lakewood?

Yes. Open carry is lawful in Lakewood under Colorado law.

However, lawful open carry comes with practical limitations:

• Private property owners may prohibit firearms
• Certain government buildings restrict carry
• Open carry may prompt law enforcement contact based on public complaints

Lakewood has not enacted an open carry prohibition like Denver or Boulder.

Concealed Carry Rules in Lakewood

To carry a concealed handgun in Lakewood, you must possess a valid Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) or a permit recognized under Colorado reciprocity laws.

Key points:

• Colorado is a shall-issue state
• Lakewood does not issue its own permit
• Your CHP must be carried while armed
• A permit does not override posted or statutory restrictions

Carrying a Firearm in a Vehicle (Lakewood & Statewide)

Colorado law permits firearm carry inside a vehicle, regardless of whether you hold a permit, provided the firearm is lawfully possessed.

Handguns in Vehicles

• May be carried with or without a CHP
• May be loaded
• May be carried openly or concealed inside the vehicle

🚫 Long Guns in Vehicles

Colorado law prohibits loaded rifles or shotguns in motor vehicles under Colorado Revised Statutes § 33-6-125.

Best practice:

• Keep long guns unloaded
• Chamber clear
• Magazine removed when feasible

This restriction does not apply to handguns.

Statewide Firearm Prohibited & Restricted Locations

Regardless of city, firearms are prohibited or restricted in the following locations — even with a valid CHP:

Lakewood enforces these restrictions through state law, not a unique municipal firearm code.

Firearms in Lakewood City Buildings

Lakewood may restrict firearms inside specific city-owned facilities if:

• Security screening is present, and
• Proper signage is posted

Always review signage at:

• City offices
• Municipal courts
• Recreation centers
• Government buildings

Police Contact & Disclosure

Colorado does not impose a duty to inform law enforcement that you are carrying a firearm.

However:

• You must answer truthfully if asked
• You must present your CHP upon request
• Do not reach for the firearm or permit without instruction

Recommended language:

“I am legally carrying a concealed firearm and have a valid permit.”

Common Firearm Carry Errors in Lakewood

1. Believing Colorado laws apply statewide
2. Carrying into posted government buildings
3. Forgetting the CHP while concealed carrying
4. Transporting a loaded rifle or shotgun in a vehicle
5. Ignoring posted private property restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I carry a firearm in Lakewood without a permit?

Yes, open carry is legal without a permit. Concealed carry requires a CHP.

Can I carry a loaded handgun in my car?

Yes. Colorado allows loaded handguns in vehicles, with or without a permit.

Does Lakewood restrict firearms more than the state?

No. Lakewood generally follows state law, without additional city-wide bans.

Can businesses prohibit firearms?

Yes. Properly posted private property may prohibit firearms.

Bottom Line

Lakewood is aligned with Colorado firearm law, but lawful carry depends on where you are, how you are carrying, and the type of firearm involved. Understanding vehicle carry rules and restricted locations is essential to remaining compliant.

Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) Class

If you live in Colorado and are applying for a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), state law requires completion of a qualifying training course taught by a verified instructor. Our Colorado CHP classes meet current statutory requirements and include legal instruction, firearms safety, and required certification documentation.
View upcoming Colorado CHP classes and sign up here: Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit Class

Self-Defense Insurance

Even a lawful act of self-defense can trigger criminal investigations, civil lawsuits, and significant legal costs. Many CCW holders evaluate self-defense insurance or legal protection plans to help manage those risks—coverage varies by provider and state, so understanding the differences matters.
Learn more and compare options here: Self-Defense Insurance Comparison

Other Related Articles:

• Can You Carry A Firearm In Aurora, Colorado?
• Can You Get a Concealed Carry Permit Online in Colorado?
• What Is Unlawful Physical Force?
• What Are The 5 Elements Of Self Defense?
• Does Colorado’s Castle Doctrine (“Make My Day”) Extend to Your Vehicle?
• Colorado Revised Statute § 18-1-704.5 — Home Defense Inside the Dwelling
• Can You Shoot Someone If You Fear for Your Life in Colorado?
• Do I Need Self Defense Insurance?
• How To Get Your Colorado CCW

Legal Disclaimer

Legal Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws can change, and local, state, federal, tribal, and municipal regulations may vary. Always verify current laws and consult a qualified attorney before carrying a firearm or making legal decisions related to self-defense. US Firearms Training Academy assumes no liability for actions taken based on this content.