Can You Open Carry a Gun in Colorado?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Basic Legality of Open Carry in Colorado
3. The Shift in State Preemption (SB21-256)
4. Where You Cannot Open Carry in Colorado
5. Carrying in a Vehicle
6. Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry for the Outdoorsman
7. Gear Considerations for Open Carry
8. Interaction with Law Enforcement
9. How to Verify Local Laws Before Your Trip
10. The Responsibility of the Gun Owner
11. Conclusion
12. FAQ

Introduction

If you are planning a backcountry trek through the Rocky Mountains or a camping trip near the Front Range, you have likely thought about your self-defense strategy. Whether you are worried about predatory wildlife or simply want to ensure your personal safety in remote areas, carrying a sidearm is a common choice for many outdoorsmen. At BattlBox, we believe that being prepared means not only having the right gear but also having a firm grasp of the laws that govern its use—and if you want expert-curated gear delivered monthly, you can subscribe to BattlBox.

Navigating the legal landscape of Colorado can be confusing because the rules change depending on which city or county line you cross. This article covers the current state of open carry laws in Colorado, where it is permitted, where it is strictly prohibited, and the essential gear you need to carry responsibly. If you are building out a broader preparedness plan, the Emergency Preparedness collection is a strong place to start.

Quick Answer: Yes, open carry is generally legal in Colorado for law-abiding adults without a permit, but significant exceptions exist. Most notably, the City and County of Denver prohibits open carry, and recent state law changes allow other municipalities to create their own local bans.

The Basic Legality of Open Carry in Colorado

At the state level, Colorado is considered a "permissive" open carry state. This means that if you are at least 18 years old and are legally allowed to possess a firearm under state and federal law, you can generally carry a handgun openly without a special permit. Open carry refers to wearing a firearm in a way that is clearly visible to others, typically in a holster on your hip.

Unlike concealed carry, which requires a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), open carry has historically been protected as a default right. However, "permissive" does not mean "unrestricted." You must still comply with all federal regulations and state-specific bans on certain types of locations. For a broader survival framework that prioritizes the essentials, The Survival 13 is a helpful companion read.

Who Is Prohibited from Carrying?

Even in a state with permissive laws, certain individuals are barred from carrying a firearm. This includes anyone who has been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors involving domestic violence. Additionally, those under a restraining order or individuals who are "unlawful users" of controlled substances are prohibited from possession. Because marijuana remains federally illegal, the interaction between Colorado's state-level legalization and federal firearm laws is a point of frequent legal discussion.

Defining "Openly"

In Colorado, for a firearm to be considered "openly carried," it must be discernible by ordinary observation. If you wear a jacket that hangs over your holster, even partially, you have moved into the realm of concealed carry. This requires a permit. When you are in the field, ensure your sidearm is fully visible to avoid any legal misunderstandings with law enforcement or park rangers.

The Shift in State Preemption (SB21-256)

For many years, Colorado had a "state preemption" law. This meant that local cities and counties could not pass gun laws that were stricter than the state's laws. This provided a uniform experience for travelers. Whether you were in Colorado Springs or a tiny mountain town, the rules were the same.

In 2021, the passing of Senate Bill 21-256 changed everything. This bill effectively ended state preemption regarding firearm regulations. Now, local governments—including cities, towns, and counties—have the authority to pass ordinances that are more restrictive than state law. This has created a "patchwork" of laws across the state, which is why the fire starters collection makes sense for anyone building a flexible field kit.

Key Takeaway: Because state preemption has been repealed, you must check the specific municipal codes of every city and county you plan to visit or travel through, as open carry may be banned locally even if it is legal statewide.

The Denver Exception

The most famous example of a local ban is the City and County of Denver. Long before the recent changes in preemption, Denver maintained a ban on open carry that was upheld by the courts. If you are within Denver city limits, open carry is strictly illegal. This includes carrying a firearm in your vehicle if it is visible to passersby.

Other Local Bans

Since the change in state law, several other municipalities have moved to restrict open carry. Boulder, Louisville, and parts of Arapahoe County have implemented or considered various restrictions. Some jurisdictions allow open carry in public generally but ban it in city-owned buildings, parks, or during permitted public events. If you are comparing your carry plan with a practical everyday loadout, the EDC collection is worth a look.

Where You Cannot Open Carry in Colorado

Regardless of local municipal codes, there are several "red zones" where firearms are prohibited by federal or state law. Entering these areas with a firearm can result in serious legal consequences, including felony charges.

Schools and Educational Facilities

Open carry is strictly prohibited on the property of any public or private elementary, middle, or high school. This includes parking lots and athletic fields. While there are some narrow exceptions for concealed carry permit holders in their vehicles, open carry does not enjoy these same protections on school grounds.

Government and Public Buildings

Most government buildings, including courthouses, state assembly rooms, and municipal offices, are gun-free zones. These locations are often equipped with security checkpoints and metal detectors. If you see a sign prohibiting firearms at the entrance of a public building, it is legally binding in Colorado.

Federal Property and National Parks

This is where many outdoorsmen get confused. On National Forest land and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, open carry is generally permitted following state laws. However, in National Parks (like Rocky Mountain National Park), the rules are slightly different.

While you can legally possess a firearm in a National Park if you are in compliance with the laws of the state the park is in, you are strictly prohibited from carrying inside "federal facilities." A federal facility is defined as any building owned or leased by the federal government where employees are regularly present. This includes:

• Visitor centers
• Ranger stations
• Administrative offices
• Maintenance sheds

If you are building out a fire-focused kit for the backcountry, the Pull Start Fire Starter is a useful example of the kind of compact emergency tool that belongs in a pack.

Note: Always look for "No Firearms" signs at the entrance of any building within a National Park or National Forest.

Private Property and Businesses

A private business owner has the right to prohibit firearms on their premises. If a shop, restaurant, or private campground posts a sign stating "No Firearms Allowed," you must comply. If you refuse to leave when asked by the owner or manager, you can be charged with second-degree criminal trespass.

Carrying in a Vehicle

Colorado law treats a person's vehicle as an extension of their home for the purpose of self-defense. You are generally allowed to carry a handgun in your vehicle, either openly or concealed, without a permit. This applies to both residents and non-residents.

However, there is a catch. If you are carrying a long gun (rifle or shotgun), Colorado law requires that the chamber be empty while the firearm is in a vehicle. Handguns do not have this "empty chamber" requirement under state law, but safe handling practices are always encouraged. A compact tool like the Dark Energy Plasma Lighter also fits the mindset of a vehicle-ready emergency kit.

Once you exit the vehicle, the rules for open carry apply immediately. If you are in a jurisdiction that bans open carry (like Denver), you must ensure the firearm is properly concealed (if you have a permit) or secured and cased before you step out onto public property.

Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry for the Outdoorsman

Choosing how to carry depends on your environment and your specific needs. Both methods have pros and cons when you are in the wild.

For many, open carry is the preferred method for the backcountry. It allows for a full-sized handgun, which is more effective against large predators, and it is easier to access when wearing a heavy hiking pack. However, when transitioning from the trail to a mountain town for a meal, concealed carry (if you have a permit) offers a more discreet and legally stable option.

Gear Considerations for Open Carry

If you choose to open carry in Colorado, your gear choice is not just about comfort—it is about safety and retention. Carrying a firearm openly makes it a target for "snatch-and-grab" attempts if you are in crowded areas or interacting with others.

The Importance of a Retention Holster

You should never open carry in a "friction-only" holster. These are holsters that rely solely on the tightness of the material to hold the gun. Instead, look for holsters with active retention levels.

• Level I: Uses friction or a simple thumb break (strap).
• Level II: Requires a specific action to release the gun, such as pressing a button with your thumb or index finger while drawing.
• Level III: Usually involves two separate motions or locks that must be deactivated before the gun can be removed.

We often feature high-quality EDC gear in our BattlBox missions because we know that the foundation of a good carry system is the belt. A flimsy leather belt will sag under the weight of a loaded handgun, making your draw inconsistent and your carry uncomfortable.

Choosing the Right Belt

A dedicated gun belt is reinforced with a plastic or steel core. This stiffness keeps the holster in a consistent position on your hip. If you are carrying a large-sized pistol like a Glock 17 or a Sig P320 for bear protection, a rigid belt is a requirement, not a suggestion. The Tactica X.100 Survival Lighter is another example of a compact, field-ready tool designed for hard use.

Protective Finishes

Colorado's weather can change in minutes. You might start a hike in 70-degree sunshine and end it in a sleet storm. Ensure your sidearm has a corrosion-resistant finish (like Nitride or Cerakote) and that your holster allows for moisture drainage.

Interaction with Law Enforcement

If you are open carrying and are approached by a law enforcement officer, the most important thing is to remain calm and keep your hands visible. In Colorado, you are not generally required to inform an officer that you are carrying a firearm unless they ask, but many experts suggest it is a good practice to be transparent.

Practical Steps for a Police Interaction

Step 1: Keep your hands empty. / If you are holding gear, set it down slowly. Do not reach for your ID or the firearm.
Step 2: Announce your carry. / Calmly state, "Officer, I want to inform you that I am openly carrying a firearm on my right hip."
Step 3: Follow instructions. / The officer may ask to temporarily secure the weapon for their safety. Comply with their instructions without making sudden movements.
Step 4: Provide identification. / Once the officer acknowledges your statement, provide your ID as requested.

Myth: "I can open carry in a park as long as I have a concealed carry permit." Fact: A concealed carry permit does not override local open carry bans. If a city has banned open carry in its parks, your permit only allows you to carry it concealed.

How to Verify Local Laws Before Your Trip

Because the laws in Colorado are now decentralized, the burden of knowledge is on the citizen. You cannot rely on a "one size fits all" rule.

1. Check Municipal Codes: Search the official website of the city or county you are visiting. Look for sections titled "Firearms," "Weapons," or "Offenses Against Public Order."
2. Look for Postings: When entering public parks or buildings, scan for signage. Under Colorado law, many local bans are only enforceable if the area is clearly posted.
3. Call Local Sheriff’s Offices: If you are unsure about the rules in a specific unincorporated county area, the local Sheriff is usually the best source of up-to-date information.
4. Stay Informed on Litigation: Many of these local bans are currently being challenged in court. A law that is in effect today might be stayed by a judge tomorrow.

If you are tracking changes in your broader preparedness setup, the Emergency / Disaster Preparedness collection keeps the focus on practical, field-ready essentials.

The Responsibility of the Gun Owner

Carrying a firearm is a significant responsibility. In an outdoor survival context, a gun is a tool, much like an axe or a water filter. It requires maintenance, training, and a clear head.

Mindset and De-escalation

The best way to win a fight is to avoid one. This is especially true when carrying a firearm. Just because you are legally allowed to carry openly doesn't mean you should always do so in every situation. If you are in a highly populated area where open carry might cause unnecessary alarm, consider whether your goals are better served by carrying concealed or leaving the firearm secured in your vehicle.

Practice and Proficiency

The middle of a high-stress encounter with a mountain lion or an aggressive individual is not the time to learn how your holster's retention button works. You must practice your draw until it is muscle memory. At BattlBox, we emphasize that gear is only as good as the person using it. Regular trips to the range and dry-fire practice at home are essential components of being a prepared gun owner.

For a practical reminder that preparedness is built on layers, the Wazoo Firecard Emergency Fire Tinder is the kind of compact backup that can make the difference when conditions turn bad.

Bottom line: Open carry is a powerful tool for self-reliance in the Colorado outdoors, but it requires a commitment to constant legal research and physical proficiency.

Conclusion

Can you open carry a gun in Colorado? The answer is a qualified yes. While state law generally permits it, the repeal of state preemption has allowed cities like Denver, Boulder, and others to create their own rules. Being a responsible outdoorsman means respecting these local boundaries while ensuring you have the protection you need for the trail.

Whether you are building your first emergency kit or you are a seasoned survivalist, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Our goal is to provide the gear and the knowledge to help you navigate the wild with confidence. We deliver expert-curated survival and outdoor gear every month to help you stay prepared for whatever the Rockies throw your way, so choose your BattlBox subscription before your next trip.

Key Takeaway: Always verify local city ordinances before you step out with an exposed firearm, and prioritize a high-quality retention holster for safety.

To stay equipped with the best survival tools and EDC gear, consider joining our community of over a million subscribers. Check out BattlBox membership options to see which gear tier fits your adventure style.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to open carry in Colorado? No, you do not need a permit to open carry a handgun in Colorado, provided you are at least 18 years old and not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, this only applies in jurisdictions where open carry is not locally banned. Concealed carry always requires a permit.

Is it legal to open carry in Rocky Mountain National Park? Yes, it is generally legal to open carry in the outdoor areas of National Parks in Colorado, provided you are complying with state law. However, you are strictly prohibited from carrying any firearm into "federal facilities," such as visitor centers, administrative buildings, or ranger stations, which will be clearly marked with signs at the entrances.

Can I open carry a gun in my car in Denver? No, Denver has a specific ordinance that prohibits the open carry of firearms, and this extends to vehicles. In Denver, a firearm in a vehicle must be "not readily accessible" or kept in a closed case, unless you have a valid concealed carry permit and are carrying the weapon concealed.

What is the minimum age for open carry in Colorado? Under state law, the minimum age to possess a handgun is 18. While federal law prohibits licensed dealers from selling handguns to anyone under 21, 18-year-olds can legally own and openly carry a handgun in Colorado (except where local laws or specific federal restrictions apply). Always check local municipal codes, as some cities may have different age requirements for firearm possession.