As concealed carry laws continue to evolve, it’s essential for Coloradans to stay informed about the legalities surrounding concealed firearms on college campuses. Many people are unsure about whether it’s legal to carry a concealed weapon on college campuses, so in this article, we’ll break down the rules surrounding concealed carry in Colorado’s public universities and colleges, and provide clarity on where you can and cannot carry.
The Basics of Concealed Carry on College Campuses in Colorado
In Colorado, the laws regarding concealed carry on college campuses can be a bit tricky. While concealed carry is allowed in many public spaces, there are restrictions when it comes to campus property. According to Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) § 18-12-214, the general rule is that concealed carry is prohibited inside college and university buildings.
This means that if you’re planning on attending classes, going to a meeting, or participating in any event inside a campus building, you’re not legally allowed to carry a concealed firearm there. However, the law is more lenient when it comes to certain areas of the campus.
Can You Carry in Parking Lots and Outdoor Spaces?
Yes, you can legally carry a concealed firearm on the outside grounds of college campuses, which includes areas like parking lots, sidewalks, and other outdoor spaces. The law allows permit holders to carry their concealed weapon while moving across campus to and from buildings, so long as the firearm is not brought inside the actual campus buildings.
However, if you leave your firearm outside the building, it must be secured in a reasonable manner, as per state law. This means that if you’re leaving your firearm in a vehicle, the firearm should be secured in a lockbox or another safe manner to prevent unauthorized access or theft.
What Does the Law Say?
The specific statute governing this matter is C.R.S. § 18-12-214(2)(b), which outlines that concealed carry is prohibited within buildings but permits individuals to carry in certain outdoor areas. The statute clearly states:
“A person who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm… may possess a concealed handgun while traveling on the grounds of a public university, community college, or public college or university, but only if the handgun is not carried inside the building.”
In essence, you are allowed to carry in outdoor spaces like parking lots, but when you step into a building, the firearm must remain outside, and if left outside, it must be secured properly.
What About Private Colleges?
While this law applies to public colleges and universities in Colorado, it does not automatically apply to private institutions. Private colleges in Colorado have the right to impose stricter policies, including the outright prohibition of concealed carry, regardless of state law. Therefore, if you’re attending or visiting a private college, always check their specific policy before carrying a firearm on campus.
How to Stay Compliant with the Law
If you’re a concealed carry permit holder, it’s crucial to understand where and when you can legally carry your firearm while on a college campus in Colorado. To stay compliant with the law:
- Know the boundaries – If you’re on campus, stay in outdoor areas like parking lots or walkways where concealed carry is allowed.
- Leave the firearm outside – Don’t carry your concealed firearm into any campus building, including dorms, libraries, classrooms, and administrative offices.
- Secure your firearm – If leaving the firearm outside a building (for example, in your car), ensure it is secured in a reasonable manner, such as in a lockbox or a secured compartment.
- Check local policies – Always verify whether the campus has any additional regulations or guidelines. Some campuses may have restrictions on concealed carry in certain outdoor spaces or additional requirements for permit holders.
Final Thoughts
In Colorado, you can legally carry a concealed weapon on public college and university campuses in outdoor spaces, like parking lots, but you cannot carry inside campus buildings. If you’re leaving your firearm outside the building, ensure that it is secured in a reasonable manner, such as in a locked container or vehicle compartment.
It’s essential to understand and follow these laws to ensure you’re in full compliance, as violating them can lead to legal consequences. Always stay informed about both state laws and individual campus policies.
If you’re interested in learning more about concealed carry laws in Colorado or need training, check out our Colorado Concealed Handgun Course to ensure you’re fully prepared to carry responsibly.