If you carry a firearm in Colorado—whether you’re a concealed handgun permit (CHP) holder, armed security, or someone who takes the law seriously—this is one statute you need to understand:

C.R.S. § 1-13-724, also known as the “Vote Without Fear Act.”

This law creates a clear no-carry zone around polling locations and ballot drop boxes, regardless of intent..

What is the New Law in Colorado?

C.R.S. § 1-13-724 is part of Colorado’s “Vote Without Fear Act,” which introduced new restrictions on carrying firearms at polling locations and ballot drop boxes.

Before this law, most firearm-related election issues were handled under intimidation-based statutes.

This law changed that by creating a location-based restriction, not just a behavior-based one.

What Does C.R.S. § 1-13-724 Say?

In plain English, it is unlawful to carry a firearm:

• Inside any polling location, OR
• Within 100 feet of:
  • A polling location
  • A ballot drop box
  • A central count facility

➡️ Applies during:

• Election day
• Early voting
• Active election operations

These areas must be clearly posted by election officials.

This Law vs. Older Colorado Laws (Important Distinction)

Before this statute, firearm-related election issues were typically enforced under laws involving:

• Intimidation
• Coercion
• Interference with voting

For example, laws similar to election interference statutes or menacing (placing someone in fear).

The difference now:

• Old approach: Illegal based on behavior
• New law (1-13-724): Illegal based on location

You no longer need intent to intimidate to violate the law.

Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry — It Does NOT Matter

This is where people get it wrong.

The statute makes no distinction between open and concealed carry.

• ❌ Open carry → illegal in the restricted zone
• ❌ Concealed carry → also illegal

There is no CHP exemption in this law.

Understanding the 100-Foot Rule

This is where people accidentally violate the law.

• The 100-foot zone applies to:
  • The building
  • The drop box location
• It must be:
  • Publicly posted

How Is the 100-Foot Distance Measured?

The statute requires signage but does not define exact measurement methods.

In practice:

• Measured from the structure or drop box outward
• Defined by posted notices from election officials

If you see signage, assume you are inside the restricted zone.
If the area is not clearly posted, that may become a factor in enforcement—but you should never rely on that.

Can You Leave Your Firearm in Your Vehicle?

Yes—but you need to do it correctly.

• Colorado law allows storing a firearm in your vehicle
• Avoid handling, loading, or transferring your firearm inside the restricted zone
• Secure it before entering the area

Proper Firearm Storage Still Applies in Colorado

Colorado has what are commonly referred to as “universal storage laws” under C.R.S. § 18-12-114, which require firearm owners to prevent unauthorized access—especially in situations involving:

👉 Colorado Firearm Storage Laws Explained (C.R.S. § 18-12-114)

Exceptions to the Law

✅ Contracted Security Guards

• Must be:
  • Uniformed
  • Working for a licensed contract security agency
  • Acting within the scope of duty

What This Means for Armed Security

This is a high-liability environment.

Even though security is allowed to carry:

• You must remain professional and neutral
• Your presence must not appear intimidating
• Avoid unnecessary visibility of firearms unless required for the assignment

Poor conduct here can result in criminal charges, loss of contract, or licensing issues.

✅ Private Property

• If you own property within the zone
• Or are traveling directly to/from it

✅ Law Enforcement

• Acting within official duties

Firearms and Ballot Drop Boxes

The same law applies to ballot drop boxes.

• No carrying within 100 feet
• Applies even if no staff is present

Many people search: “Can you carry a firearm near a ballot drop box in Colorado?”
The answer is the same—this law applies equally.

What Happens If You Violate This Law?

You may:

• Be asked to leave immediately
• Be detained by law enforcement
• Receive a citation or be arrested

Violation is a misdemeanor:

• Up to $1,000 fine
• Up to 364 days in jail

First offense:

• Up to $250 fine
• Up to 120 days in jail

Even a first offense can create a criminal record risk.

Best Practices for CCW Holders

If you’re going to vote:

• Do not carry inside the polling location
• Do not enter the 100-foot zone while armed
• Secure your firearm before arriving
• Watch for posted signage
• Avoid handling your firearm near the location

Q&A Section

Q: Can you carry a firearm at a polling place in Colorado?

No. Under C.R.S. § 1-13-724, carrying a firearm inside or within 100 feet of a polling location or drop box is prohibited.

Q: Can I conceal carry while voting in Colorado?

No. Concealed carry is also prohibited within the restricted zone.

Q: Is open carry allowed at a polling place?

No. Open carry is also prohibited within the restricted zone.

Q: What if my firearm stays in my vehicle?

That is the safest option—just make sure it is properly secured.

Q: How do I know where the 100-foot boundary is?

Look for posted signage from election officials.

Q: Does this apply to ballot drop boxes?

Yes—same 100-foot rule applies.

Q: Can security guards carry at polling locations?

Yes, if they are uniformed, contracted, and acting within their duties.

Bottom Line

C.R.S. § 1-13-724 creates a strict no-carry zone around polling places and ballot drop boxes in Colorado.

• It is not about intent
• It is not about open vs concealed
• It is about location

This is one of the few areas in Colorado where lawful carry is clearly restricted by location—not behavior—and violating it is easy if you are not paying attention.

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Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) Class

If you live in Colorado and are applying for or renewing 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

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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

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Other Related Articles:

• Colorado Concealed Carry Laws: Is Printing or Exposure Illegal?
• What Is a “Verified Instructor” in Colorado?
• How Do You Register Guns In Colorado?
• Does CRS § 18-1-704.5 Apply to an Attached Garage in Colorado?
• Is There A Waiting Period To By A Firearm In Colorado?
• Can You Legally Lend a Firearm to Someone in Colorado?
• How to Legally Transfer a Firearm in Colorado
• Are You Required to Report a Stolen Firearm in Colorado?
• How Long Is a Colorado CCW / CHP Class?
• Colorado Safety Courses & Classes
• Do I Need Self Defense Insurance?
• How To Get Your Colorado CCW

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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.