Many Colorado gun owners are surprised to learn that there’s no statewide law banning firearms in bars or restaurants that serve alcohol. The confusion comes from not understanding the difference between being present in a place that serves alcohol and being under the influence while armed.
This article breaks down what Colorado law actually says about carrying in bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol — and what every CCW holder and armed professional needs to know before walking through the door.
Colorado Law on Carrying in Bars
Under Colorado Revised Statute § 18-12-105 (Unlawfully Carrying a Concealed Weapon) and § 18-12-106 (Prohibited Use of Weapons), it is not illegal to carry a firearm into a bar or restaurant that serves alcohol.
However, it becomes a crime to possess, handle, or use a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
C.R.S. § 18-12-106(1)(d) states that a person commits Prohibited Use of Weapons if they:
“Have in their possession a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or of a controlled substance.”
That means you don’t have to draw or discharge your firearm to commit a crime — simply being in possession of it while intoxicated is enough.
Law Enforcement Uses the DUI Standard
Colorado law doesn’t set a specific BAC limit for firearm possession, but law enforcement applies the same impairment standard used for DUI cases.
If you’re too drunk to legally drive, you’re too drunk to legally carry a firearm.
Officers can use field sobriety tests, witness statements, or blood-alcohol test results to prove impairment. Even if your BAC is below 0.08%, prosecutors can still charge you if your behavior, coordination, or speech suggest intoxication.
In short:
- You can legally carry into a bar or restaurant.
- You cannot be in possession of your firearm once you’re under the influence.
- The same standard used for a DUI can be used to determine guilt.
Bars vs. Restaurants: The Difference Is Policy, Not Law
Colorado law doesn’t distinguish between a bar and a restaurant — but business owners can set their own policies.
If a bar, nightclub, or restaurant posts a “No Firearms” sign, that’s their right as private property owners. Ignoring it isn’t a gun crime, but it can result in a trespassing charge if you refuse to leave when asked.
Always respect posted signage and management requests — it’s not worth losing your permit or facing charges.
Concealed Carry and Alcohol: The Fine Line
Your Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) allows you to carry concealed into most establishments, including those that serve alcohol.
But the moment you become “under the influence,” that lawful carry ends.
Even a single drink can complicate a self-defense case. If you’re armed and involved in a defensive incident after drinking, prosecutors can use your alcohol consumption to question your judgment and reasonableness — even if the shooting was justified.
Bottom line:
Carrying while drinking is technically legal.
Being in possession of a firearm while intoxicated is illegal under state law.
Open Carry in Bars and Restaurants
Colorado is generally an open-carry state, except where local governments restrict it.
- Denver completely bans open carry by ordinance.
- Other cities may limit it inside government buildings or designated areas.
Even where open carry is lawful, doing so in a bar or restaurant can draw unwanted attention or alarm staff and patrons. For most situations, concealed carry is the smarter, lower-profile choice.
Federal and Private Property Restrictions
Some establishments that serve alcohol may also be subject to federal firearm restrictions, including:
- Federal courthouses or government buildings with cafés or bars
- Airport restaurants beyond TSA checkpoints
- Military facilities and federally leased spaces
For a Full List of Prohibited Areas, Visit our Colorado CHP Guide
Private businesses can also ban firearms entirely. If you’re asked to leave, you must do so immediately — refusing can lead to trespassing charges.
Real-World Lessons: Alcohol, Anger, and Ego Don’t Mix
Most firearm-related incidents in bars share three ingredients: alcohol, anger, and ego.
When judgment is impaired, even a normally responsible carrier can make a bad decision that ends in handcuffs or a courtroom.
If you plan to drink, leave your firearm locked and secured beforehand.
It only takes one lapse in judgment to turn a lawful carry into a criminal case or civil lawsuit. This is why every responsible gun owner should carry self-defense insurance and seek continuing education in self-defense law.
Best Practices for CCW Holders
- Avoid drinking while armed — if you’re too drunk to drive, you’re too drunk to carry.
- Respect “No Firearms” signs — they fall under private property rights.
- Keep your firearm holstered and out of sight unless deadly force is lawfully justified.
- If you plan to consume alcohol, secure your firearm at home in your gun safe
- Always stay calm, objective, and sober in both mind and judgment.
Related Articles & Training
- Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) Class
- Colorado Self-Defense Laws Explained
- 3 Things You’re Never Allowed to Do While Carrying a Gun
- Understanding Colorado’s “Prohibited Use of Weapons” Law (C.R.S. 18-12-106)
- Self-Defense Insurance Comparison: Why It Matters After a Shooting
- De-Escalation and Use-of-Force Training for CCW Holders
- Security Guard Training in Denver, CO
Final Thoughts
Colorado allows lawful gun owners to carry in most public places — including bars and restaurants — but with freedom comes responsibility.
If you’re going out for drinks, leave the gun at home or in a lockbox. The safest, smartest carriers know that sound judgment is your most important piece of gear.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a licensed Colorado attorney or your local law enforcement agency.
