As of 2021, Colorado Revised Statutes § 29-11.7-103 no longer prevents local governments from passing their own firearm regulations. The law once guaranteed statewide uniformity of carry laws, but it was effectively repealed and reversed by Senate Bill 21-256, giving cities, counties, and local districts the power to regulate firearms within their jurisdictions.
🔹 What the Law Used to Say
Before the 2021 change, C.R.S. § 29-11.7-103 prohibited any county or municipality from enacting laws that restricted open or concealed carry beyond what state law allowed. This made it easy for gun owners to comply with a consistent set of rules across Colorado.
🔄 What Changed with SB21-256
In 2021, Senate Bill 21-256 was signed into law and overturned the state preemption on firearm regulations. Here’s what that means:
- Local governments may now pass their own ordinances related to:
- Banning open or concealed carry in government buildings, parks, recreation centers, and other public spaces.
- Prohibiting the sale or possession of certain types of firearms or accessories (e.g., “assault weapons” or magazines over 10 rounds).
- The law requires any locality that enacts stricter rules to publicly post signs at all entry points where carry is restricted.
Example: The City and County of Denver, Boulder, Louisville, and Boulder County have all passed local ordinances banning concealed and open carry in government buildings and parks, even for CHP holders.
⚠️ What This Means for CHP Holders
If you have a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), you are no longer guaranteed statewide reciprocity within Colorado. You must now:
- Check local laws before carrying your firearm in a city or county.
- Be aware that you may accidentally violate the law by entering a posted building or park with your concealed handgun.
- Know that even with a valid permit, you may face misdemeanor or criminal charges if you violate a local ordinance.
✅ How to Stay Legal
- Look for posted signage when entering public buildings, libraries, rec centers, or parks.
- Read the municipal code of the cities you visit.
- Stay informed about ongoing legal challenges—several gun rights groups have filed lawsuits against these local bans, arguing they violate both the state and federal constitutions.
📢 Get the Training You Need to Understand These Changes
Our Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit classes include the latest updates on state and local gun laws. We’ll walk you through what’s legal—and where you’re no longer allowed to carry.
👉 Call 720-924-6654 or visit Our Colorado Concealed Carry Classes Page to book your spot today!
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws are subject to change and may vary between jurisdictions. Always consult a qualified attorney or your local law enforcement agency for current legal guidance regarding firearm possession, carry laws, and local ordinances. Concealed Carry Classes of Denver is not responsible for any legal consequences resulting from reliance on the information presented herein.
