Understanding Colorado's 2026 Gun Laws: What You Need to Know
If you're a Colorado gun owner, you've probably heard whispers about major changes coming to our state's firearm laws. The changes are significant, and they're coming faster than many people realize.
Starting August 1, 2026, Colorado will implement some of the most restrictive gun laws in the nation.
What's Actually Changing?
Let's start with the big one: Senate Bill 25-003. This law will prohibit the manufacture, sale, and purchase of what Colorado calls "specified semiautomatic firearms." We're talking about popular rifles like AR-15s and AK-47s, along with their variants, certain tactical shotguns, and even some handgun models that can accept detachable magazines.
Now, before you panic – if you already own these firearms, you can keep them. The law doesn't force you to give up guns you legally purchased before August 1, 2026. But if you're thinking about buying one of these firearms in the future, the process is going to look very different. The law targets gas-powered semiautomatic firearms that accept detachable magazines. It does not apply to firearms already owned by Coloradans. Exceptions exist for certain semiautomatic rifles commonly used for hunting and for firearms with fixed magazines. Importantly, the legislation does not affect most handguns (which are typically recoil-operated), shotguns with fixed magazines, or semiautomatic firearms with fixed magazines holding 15 rounds or less.
The New Requirements: What You'll Need to Do
If you want to purchase a restricted semiautomatic firearm after the law takes effect, you'll need to jump through three main hoops:
First, you'll need to complete a background check. This is more extensive than the current system and will likely take longer to complete.
Second, you'll need to get a purchase permit from your county sheriff's department. This isn't just a rubber stamp – it's an actual permitting process that will require documentation and approval.
Third, you'll need to complete a firearms training course. Before you can enroll in the firearms safety course, you must hold a valid course eligibility card, issued by the sheriff.
Complete a hunter education course certified by the division of parks and wildlife and, within 5 years before making the purchase, completed a basic firearms safety course;
Within 5 years before making the purchase, completed an extended firearms safety course; or
Completed an extended firearms safety course more than 5 years before making the purchase and completed a basic firearms safety course withing 5 years before making the purchase. Semiautomatic Firearms & Rapid-Fire Devices | Colorado General Assembly
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes, there are several important exemptions you should know about:
Law enforcement officers and agencies
Military personnel
Licensed armored vehicle businesses
Gunsmiths (for business purposes)
Educational institutions offering accredited firearms training
Transfers through inheritance or by operation of law
If you fall into any of these categories, the restrictions may not apply to you in the same way.
Additional exceptions include transfers to heirs, an individual residing in another state, and a federally licensed firearm dealer.
Other Changes Coming Your Way
The semiautomatic firearm restrictions aren't the only changes heading to Colorado. The legislature actually passed twelve different gun bills in 2025, and they affect various aspects of firearm ownership and use.
One that might catch you off guard: House Bill 1133 raises the minimum age to purchase firearm ammunition from 18 to 21. This takes effect on July 1, 2026, just a month before the main restrictions kick in.
What Happens If You Don't Comply?
First-time violations are classified as Class 2 misdemeanors, which can mean up to 120 days in jail and significant fines. But here's where it gets really serious – if you're caught again, it becomes a Class 6 felony. That could mean up to 18 months in prison, plus you could lose your state firearms dealer permit and be permanently prohibited from owning firearms.
The Legal Challenges Ahead
You should know that these laws aren't going unchallenged. Federal lawsuits are already making their way through the courts, with gun rights organizations arguing that the restrictions violate constitutional rights.
However, Colorado has successfully defended similar firearm restrictions in the past, including the 15-round magazine limit, three-day waiting periods, and the 21-year minimum age requirement for gun purchases. While challenges continue, it's wise to assume these laws will remain in effect.
