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Colorado firearm laws and regulations

Introduction

This Colorado firearm laws and regulations guide aims to provide clear and concise information about the existing firearm laws in Colorado and upcoming laws that have been signed and are set to take effect in 2023. 

This section aims to provide a comprehensive discussion of firearm-related issues specific to Colorado. The Colorado firearm laws and regulations page offers a guide to firearm legislation enacted by the Colorado General Assembly, serving as a tool for interpreting the existing law surrounding ownership, safety, and due process.

This section also includes a historical perspective on firearms in Colorado, offering insights into the evolution of firearm-related policies and their impact within the state.

The Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) is committed to delivering a comprehensive Resource Bank that fosters understanding and promotes informed discussions on the complex issues associated with firearms in Colorado. Updates and announcements regarding the release of future sections will be made available, and interested individuals are encouraged to sign up for the OGVP newsletter to stay tuned for further details.
 

 
Right to bear arms

Regulation of firearms begins with the premise that citizens have a fundamental right to bear arms and accompanying responsibilities.

 

 
Obtaining firearms

Colorado has several types of laws and policies that take effect when a person attempts to purchase or obtain a firearm.

 
Possession of firearms

Federal and state laws prohibit some Coloradans from legally possessing firearms.

 
Carrying, storing, and discharging firearms

There are restrictions established in state law related to how Coloradans may carry, store, and use firearms. 

 
Hardware and ammunition

Firearm technologies have advanced significantly in the last several decades, which has prompted state laws and regulations regarding firearm hardware and ammunition. 

 
Extreme Risk Protection Orders

Extreme risk protection orders (ERPOs) are a type of civil restraining order issued through a court that temporarily prevents a person from purchasing or possessing firearms and requires said person to surrender concealed carry permits.

 
Liability

Liability allows a person or entity to bring a lawsuit for damages against firearm industry members. 

Learn more about Colorado firearm laws and regulations
Colorado Bureau of Investigation Firearms InstaCheck Unit website
Colorado Department of Public Safety State Patrol website

Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) are posted on the Colorado Legal Resources Public Access Website. Use the links below to access each statute listed.

  1. Colorado Revised Statutes 2016: Constitution of the State of Colorado. 
  2. Local Regulation of Firearms, S 21-256, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Session (2021).
  3. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §18-12-111.
  4. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §29-11.7-102.
  5. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §18-12-214.
  6. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §29-11.7-103.
  7. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §18-12-115.
  8. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §18-12-112.
  9. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. §13-14.5-103.
  10. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §18-12-214.
  11. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §16-2.5-101.
  12. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §24-33.5-424.
  13. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §13-14.5-101.
  14. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §13-14-105.5.
  15. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §18-12-214.
  16. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §1-13-724.
  17. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §18-12-114.
  18. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §18-12-111.5.
  19. Colorado Revised Statute C.R.S. §18-12-301.
  20. Increasing Minimum Age To Purchase Firearms, S 23-169, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2023). 
  21. Waiting Period To Deliver A Firearm, HR 23-1219, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2023). 
  22. Expand Firearm Transfer Background Check Requirements, HR 21-1298, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2021). 
  23. National Instant Criminal Background Check System, HR 13-1228, CO Gen Assembly (2013). 
  24. Private Firearm Transfers, HR 13-1229, CO Gen Assembly (2013). 
  25. Colorado Revised Statute, C.R.S. 24-33.5-424.
  26. Extreme Risk Protection Order Petitions, S 23-170, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2023).
  27. Extreme Risk Protection Orders, HR 19-1177, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2019). 
  28. No Firearms For Domestic Violence Offenders, S 13-197, CO Gen Assembly (2013). 
  29. The Vote Without Fear Act, HR 22-1086, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2022). 
  30. Unserialized Firearms And Firearm Components, S 23-279, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2023). 
  31. Prohibiting Large-capacity Ammunition Magazines, HR 13-1224, CO Gen Assembly (2013). 
  32. Gun Violence Victims' Access To Judicial System, S 23-168, 74th CO Gen Assembly, 1st Sess (2023).