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Gun Laws Frequently Asked Questions

Can I carry a gun on my person?

Yes

Colorado is an open-carry state. Visit the Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) page of the Colorado Bureau of Investigation website for the Colorado Gun Laws.

Requirements to legally carry a concealed handgun

You must possess a concealed handgun permit issued by a Colorado Sheriff from the county where you reside or own a business; or from another state with concealed carry reciprocity with Colorado.

Visit the Concealed Handgun Permit Application page to begin the process.

Can a person fire a weapon on private property?

In most circumstances, no person can fire a weapon or pellet gun within the city limits of Grand Junction except with special permission from the Chief of Police.

Can a weapon be fired on private property?

A weapon can be fired on private property in unincorporated Mesa County in any zone not designated a "no-shooting zone" as long as the projectiles do not leave the private property.

Visit our Law Enforcement Boundaries map system and select the "No Shooting Zones" filter to view areas in Mesa County designated as No Shooting Zones via the Mesa County map per Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) Resolution 87-18.

Am I required to register my firearm(s)?

No.

Learn more about the State of Colorado's requirements for gun ownership.

Visit the Firearms FAQs page on the Colorado Bureau of Investigation website.

Can I transport a gun in my car?

You may transport a firearm in your vehicle while travelling throughout the state of Colorado without
restriction. (CRS 18-12-105.6)

However, if you need to leave the firearm unattended in your vehicle:

  • If the firearm is a handgun, the firearm must be secured in a locked, hard-sided container that is placed out of plain view, including a locked container that is permanently affixed to the interior of the vehicle, and the container is in a locked vehicle or the locked trunk of a locked vehicle or a locked recreational vehicle.
  • If the firearms is other than a handgun, the firearm must be secured in a locked, hard-sided container or locked soft-sided container, including a locked container that is permanently affixed to the interior of the vehicle, and the container is in a locked vehicle, or the locked trunk of a locked vehicle or a locked recreational vehicle. If stored in a soft sided container, the firearm must have a locking device installed on the firearm while the firearm is stored in the soft-sided container.
  • A locked glove compartment or locked center console of a vehicle is a locked hard-sided container.

Exceptions (CRS 18-12-114.5):

  • A long gun in a vehicle that is being used for farm/ranch operations while on the person’s private property
  • A person who lives in a vehicle or recreational vehicle
  • A peace officer
  • A person who is lawfully hunting
  • A Colorado State Hunter Safety Education instructor, who is instructing
  • An active member of the armed forces, while on duty