Denver Gun Laws: How Do State Laws Apply in Tourist Areas?

The city and county of Denver is the capital and most populated city in Colorado. There are many places within the city which attract tourists to the area on a regular basis. Gun laws allowing the carrying of a firearm in these areas are limited to valid concealed handgun license or permit holders only.

Where the Colorado Concealed Handgun permit is recognized statewide, out-of-state permit holders need to be familiar whether or not their state has reciprocity with Colorado, in which there is a mutual recognition between the two states to recognize each others permits.

ALERT: Should Obama Have More Control Over Guns? Vote Now

Currently, Colorado reciprocates with 22 other states and the reciprocity is only for resident permits issued by those states.

Although the permit allows the holder to carry a concealed weapon in Colorado, the visiting permit holder will still be subject to the same laws and restrictions in the same manner that a Colorado permit holder must comply with the laws of the state.

This includes being familiar with prohibited carry locations, and specific local laws and ordinances, specifically to banned firearms and the prohibition of open carry within the city of Denver.

VOTE NOW: Is Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper Doing a Good Job?

Specific to a motor vehicle, a visitor in Colorado that does not have a permit which is valid in Colorado may carry a handgun in a vehicle, and it shall not be considered concealed if the handgun is in the possession of a person who is in a private automobile who is carrying the handgun for legal use, including self-defense.

Denver did win a court case stating that it can control Open Carry in Denver and that is Open Carry is illegal in Denver, although it may be allowed in other areas in the State.

In Colorado, a person who possesses a valid concealed handgun permit may carry a concealed handgun into state parks and state and/or national forests.

This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.

URGENT: Do You Support Obama's Plans for Stricter Gun Control? Vote Now

Related Stories:

• Denver Gun Laws: Quotes From Heated Debate

• Denver Gun Laws: Can Visitors Carry Their Firearm?