Open Carry in Colorado
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Colorado permits open carry of firearms without a permit for most people in most places.
How Colorado treats Open Carry
Adults may openly carry handguns and long guns in public without a state permit. However, local governments can restrict open carry in certain areas, and private property owners may prohibit firearms on their premises. Some municipalities have enacted stricter rules, so local ordinances vary significantly. Federal restrictions and gun-free zones (like courthouses and schools) still apply statewide.
The general definition of Open Carry
The legal right to carry a firearm openly and visibly in public.
Open carry means carrying a firearm in plain view on your person or in a vehicle in public spaces. Unlike concealed carry, the weapon is visible to others. Open carry laws vary widely by state and sometimes by city or county within a state. Some states allow open carry without any permit, while others prohibit it entirely or require a permit even for visible firearms.
Read the full Open Carry entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.