Tag: concealed carry permit

Legal & Law

Can You Open Carry in Aurora, CO? Do You Need a Permit?

Mark Schneider

Introduction

Can you open carry in Aurora, Colorado? The short answer is yes. Colorado is an open carry state, and you don’t need a permit to carry your firearm openly. However, while it’s legal, there are several important things to consider. In this article, we’ll explore the rules around open carry in Aurora and why getting a concealed carry permit (CCW) might be a better option for most people.

Colorado Is an Open Carry State

Colorado is an open carry state, meaning that you are allowed to openly carry a firearm in most areas without the need for a permit. This includes Aurora. However, there are certain places where open carry is restricted, such as private property, government buildings, schools, and certain businesses that have posted “no firearms” signs.

Open Carry in Aurora, CO

In Aurora, open carry is legal, but you should still be mindful of specific restrictions. While there aren’t specific city laws banning open carry, you must ensure that you follow state regulations and avoid carrying in prohibited zones like schools or private property that bans firearms. Always be aware that laws can vary between counties and cities, so it’s important to check local ordinances to ensure you’re in compliance.

Potential Risks of Open Carry

While open carry is legal, it does come with its own set of risks:

  • Public Perception and Reactions: Openly carrying a firearm can cause alarm or anxiety among those around you. This might lead to unnecessary confrontations, calls to law enforcement, or public panic. In some situations, it could escalate tensions unnecessarily.
  • Increased Attention: When you open carry, your firearm is visible at all times, which can make you a target for thieves or criminals who may attempt to disarm you.
  • Police Interactions: Although open carry is allowed, law enforcement may still approach you to ensure that you’re carrying legally, especially if there is any suspicion or concern. Being open about your rights and calmly responding can help prevent misunderstandings.
  • Risks in Crowded Areas: In busy public spaces or situations where you’re in close contact with others, an openly carried firearm can be distracting or unsettling to those around you, potentially leading to negative reactions or confrontations.

Why Concealed Carry is Better for Most People

While open carry is legal in Aurora, concealed carry is generally a safer and more practical option for several reasons:

  • Avoid Drawing Attention: Concealed carry allows you to carry a firearm discreetly, without drawing unwanted attention. This can help you avoid unnecessary public scrutiny or alarm.
  • More Freedom to Carry: Many businesses and locations, like private property or certain government buildings, prohibit open carry, but CCW holders can often carry in more places. This gives you more freedom and flexibility to protect yourself.
  • Safety in an Emergency: Concealed carry allows you to have your firearm available in a self-defense situation without making you an obvious target. This can be crucial if you need to respond quickly to a threat without others knowing you’re armed.
  • Less Likely to Escalate a Situation: Open carry can sometimes escalate an otherwise calm situation. With concealed carry, you can avoid confrontation or avoid making others uncomfortable when it’s not necessary.

We Offer CCW Classes in Colorado

If you’re interested in concealed carry, it’s essential to take a CCW course. Our Colorado Concealed Carry classes cover everything you need to know, including the law and live-fire training.

Sign up today and get the training you need to carry confidently and legally.

Conclusion

In summary, yes, you can open carry in Aurora, CO, but it’s important to understand the potential risks involved. Concealed carry is often the safer, more practical option, giving you more freedom to protect yourself without drawing attention or escalating situations. Whether you’re a CCW holder or planning to become one, we’re here to help. Sign up for our Colorado Concealed Carry class today!

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Firearm laws are subject to change, and local regulations may vary. Always verify current laws with official sources such as the Aurora Police, Adams County Sheriff or legal counsel before carrying a firearm.

Prohibited Areas for Open Carry in Colorado

Even though open carry is legal, firearms are prohibited in the following areas:

  • Federal buildings (post offices, courthouses, TSA-secured areas)
  • Schools (K-12) and school property
  • Private businesses with “No Firearms” signs
  • Government buildings with security screening
  • Correctional facilities
  • Military bases
  • Indian reservations (tribal laws may apply)
  • Public transportation (e.g., buses, trains)
  • In College or University Buildings
  • Areas where local ordinances prohibit open carry (e.g., Denver, Boulder)

Violating these laws can result in legal consequences. Always ensure you’re in compliance with state and local regulations before carrying a firearm.

Legal & Law, News

Is It Legal to Open Carry a Firearm in Denver?

Mark Schneider

No, open carry of firearms is not legal in Denver. While Colorado generally allows open carry, Denver has stricter regulations under its municipal code, prohibiting the open carry of firearms within city limits.

Denver’s Open Carry Ban

According to Denver Revised Municipal Code Sec. 38-118(b):

“Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, it shall be unlawful for any person to openly wear, carry, or transport any weapon on or about their person or vehicle.”

This ordinance has been in place for decades and was upheld in court, reaffirming Denver’s authority to regulate firearms more strictly than the state.

Exceptions to the Open Carry Ban

There are only two primary exceptions to this law, as outlined in Sec. 38-118(c):

  1. Law Enforcement and Military Personnel – Police officers and active-duty military members engaged in official duties may open carry.
  2. Licensed Security Guards with a Firearm Endorsement – Security personnel with a valid Denver security license and a firearm endorsement may open carry while on duty.

Penalties for Violating Denver’s Open Carry Law

Anyone found openly carrying a firearm in Denver without falling under the two exceptions may face fines and potential jail time.

Understanding Colorado vs. Denver Firearm Laws

While open carry is generally legal in most of Colorado, Denver’s local ordinances override state law due to its “home rule” status. This means that even if you can legally open carry in other parts of the state, you must comply with Denver’s stricter regulations when within city limits.

Final Thoughts

If you plan to carry a firearm in Denver, you must understand and follow the city’s municipal code. Concealed carry remains legal with a valid permit, but open carry is strictly prohibited except for law enforcement and licensed security personnel.

Want to Carry a Firearm for Personal Protection?

If you’re interested in carrying a firearm for personal protection, we offer Concealed Carry Classes to help you obtain your concealed carry permit. Our course covers essential safety procedures, legal responsibilities, and firearm handling techniques, ensuring you’re well-prepared to responsibly carry a firearm.

Contact us today to sign up for a concealed carry class and start the process of getting your permit, allowing you to legally carry a concealed firearm for personal protection in Colorado.

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law

How Long Does It Take to Get a CCW in Colorado?

Mark Schneider

Obtaining a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), commonly referred to as a CCW (Concealed Carry Weapon) permit, requires several steps. The timeline can vary depending on multiple factors, including county processing times and background check results. Below is a general breakdown of the process and expected timeframes.

Step 1: Complete a Concealed Carry Course

Colorado law requires applicants to complete an approved firearms training course through a verified instructor before applying for a permit. The course must cover firearm safety, handling, and Colorado gun laws.

  • Time Required: 8 hours minimum (as required by law for new applicants)
  • Course Scheduling: Depending on class availability, you may be able to complete it within a few days to a few weeks.

Step 2: Submit Your CCW Application

Once you have completed your training, you must submit an application to the sheriff’s office in the county where you reside.

  • Required Documents:
    • Completed application form
    • Training certificate
    • Valid government-issued ID
    • Application fee (varies by county, typically $152.50)

Step 3: Background Check & Processing

After submitting your application, the sheriff’s office will conduct a background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the FBI.

  • Typical Processing Time: Colorado law allows up to 90 days for processing a new application, though many counties process permits faster (around 4–6 weeks on average).
  • Factors Affecting Processing Time:
    • County workload and backlog
    • Criminal record checks
    • Fingerprint submission delays

Step 4: Approval & Permit Issuance

Once approved, you will receive notification from your sheriff’s office to pick up your permit. Some counties mail permits directly to the applicant.

  • Total Estimated Time: 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your county.

Renewal Timeframe

CCW permits in Colorado are valid for 5 years. The renewal process is generally faster than a new application, often taking around 2 to 4 weeks, as long as there are no significant changes in your background.

Conclusion

While Colorado law allows up to 90 days for processing a CCW application, most applicants receive their permits within 4 to 6 weeks. To expedite the process, ensure your application is complete, schedule your training early, and check with your county sheriff’s office for specific processing times.

Click here for info on our CCW class