Basalt Firearms Guide:
Gun Laws by City in Colorado
What You Need to Know About Local Firearm Regulations in Major Colorado Cities
At Basalt Firearms, we understand that navigating firearm laws can be confusing, especially when local ordinances vary from city to city. While Colorado follows state and federal regulations, many cities across the state have added their own restrictions. If you’re living in or traveling through places like Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, or Aurora, it’s important to know how local rules may affect your rights and responsibilities as a firearm owner.
This guide breaks down major Colorado city gun laws so you can stay safe, legal, and informed.
Denver
Denver has some of the strictest local firearm regulations in the state.
Key laws include:
- Open carry is prohibited. You may not openly carry a firearm within city limits
- Assault weapons are banned. Denver enforces a local ban on what it defines as assault-style weapons.
- Magazine capacity limits. Magazines holding more than 15 rounds are prohibited
- Discharge within city limits is illegal, except in self-defense or law enforcement situations
If you’re transporting firearms through Denver, make sure they are unloaded, locked in a case, and not accessible while driving.
Boulder
Boulder also enforces strict local ordinances that go beyond state law.
Important regulations:
- Ban on assault weapons and bump stocks
- Mandatory firearm storage laws-firearms must be stored in a locked container or equipped with a trigger lock when not in use.
- Minimum age 21 for all firearm purchases within the city limits
- Permit requirements for concealed carry are strictly enforced
Boulder has also passed safe storage and reporting laws—if a firearm is lost or stolen, it must be reported to authorities within 48 hours.
Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs generally aligns more closely with state firearm laws.
Notable local policies:
- Open carry is allowed in most public places
- No local bans on specific firearm types
- Concealed carry permits are issued by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office
Although Colorado Springs does not impose additional restrictions, it’s still important to follow state and federal regulations, including background checks for all transfers.
Aurora
Aurora has implemented several recent gun control measures.
Important Notes:
- Ban on open carry within city limits
- Ban on “ghost guns” (unserialized or homemade firearms)
- Gun-free zones around government buildings, parks, and some public events
- Firearm storage requirements similar to Boulder’s
Aurora is actively reviewing and passing ordinances related to public safety—stay updated before carrying or transporting firearms within city limits.
Fort Collins
Colorado Springs generally aligns more closely with state firearm laws.
What to know:
- Safe storage laws are in effect
- Ban on open carry in city parks, natural areas, and municipal buildings
- High-capacity magazines banned (over 15 rounds)
Basalt & the Roaring Fork Valley
The town of Basalt and surrounding areas generally follow Colorado state law, without additional municipal restrictions.
- Open carry is legal, but it’s always advised to do so responsibly
- Private sales must still go through background checks
- No local bans on types of firearms or accessories
As your local firearms resource, we at Basalt Firearms ensure that all sales and transfers comply with both state and federal law.
Understanding Basalt Firearms gun laws by city in Colorado is critical to avoiding legal trouble.
Our experienced team is here to guide you through the regulations that apply
whether you’re a local resident or just passing through different cities.