Travel To Colorado: What You Need To Know

As of February 2022, there are no travel restrictions in place for those wishing to visit Colorado. However, it is important to note that travel restrictions may vary from county to county, and visitors are encouraged to check local guidelines before travelling. With regards to COVID-19, travellers are advised to delay their trip until they are up to date with all recommended vaccine doses, and to follow CDC recommendations for safe travel. For registered sex offenders, Colorado's registry laws usually permit convicted sex offenders from other states to enter the state, however, they must register as a temporary resident if they stay for more than 14 days or for more than 30 days in a calendar year.

COVID-19 guidelines

As of February 8, 2022, the following guidelines are in place for those travelling to Colorado.

Before You Travel

If you are travelling within the United States, you do not need to get tested before or after your trip unless your destination requires it. It is recommended that you check local requirements before planning your travel. If you are travelling internationally, all air passengers, regardless of vaccination status, must show a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than one day before travel to the United States. It is recommended that you get tested three to five days after travelling internationally.

During Travel

Everyone aged 2 and older must wear a mask on public transportation within the United States, including planes and buses. This is required by federal law for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people.

After Travel

If you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines, you do not need to self-quarantine after travel. However, if you develop symptoms or are exposed to the virus, you may need to isolate or postpone your return until ten full days have passed since your symptoms started or you tested positive.

General Recommendations

• Delay travel until you are up to date with all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses.
• Wear a mask that fits well and covers your mouth and nose completely. Wash reusable cloth masks frequently.
• Avoid close contact with others and maintain a physical distance of six feet.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• If you feel sick or develop any symptoms of COVID-19, get tested as soon as possible and avoid contact with others.

Sex offender status

Sex offenders are generally allowed to travel to Colorado, but they must comply with federal and state reporting requirements. They need to notify their local authorities of their travel plans and register with Colorado authorities if they stay for an extended period.

Sex offenders who stay for more than 14 consecutive days in Colorado or more than 30 days in a calendar year are considered temporary residents and must register in Colorado. They must also comply with the registration rules in their home state, and if their home state forbids them from leaving the state, they may not go to Colorado or any other state.

Registered sex offenders in Colorado must update their information annually, or every three months if convicted of a quarterly offense. They must re-register within five business days whenever they move or change their name.

Penalties for failing to register as a sex offender in Colorado are steep. Individuals convicted of a misdemeanor-level sex offense who fail to register face an extraordinary risk class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 18 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Individuals convicted of a felony-level sex offense who fail to register face a class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 1.5 years in Colorado State Prison and a fine of $1,000 to $100,000. A second or subsequent failure to register is prosecuted as a class 5 felony, carrying 1 to 3 years in prison and a fine of $1,000 to $100,000.

Fire restrictions

As of September 2024, the following counties have reported fire restrictions:

• Adams County
• Alamosa County (Enacted Automatically During Red Flag Warnings)
• Arapahoe County
• Boulder County & City
• Broomfield County
• Clear Creek County
• Conejos County (Automatic During Red Flag Warning)
• Costilla County (Automatic During Red Flag Warning)
• Douglas County
• Elbert County
• Gilpin County
• Grand County
• Jefferson County (Automatic if a Red Flag Warning is issued)
• Las Animas County
• Larimer County
• Lincoln County
• Montezuma County
• Yuma County

The following counties have not reported fire restrictions as of August 2024:

• Archuleta County
• Baca County
• Bent County
• Chaffee County
• Cheyenne County
• Conejos County
• Crowley County
• Delta County
• Denver County & City
• Dolores County
• Eagle County
• El Paso County
• Fremont County
• Garfield County
• Gunnison County
• Hinsdale County
• Huerfano County
• Jackson County
• Kiowa County
• Kit Carson County
• Lake County
• La Plata County
• Logan County
• Mesa County
• Moffat County
• Montrose County
• Morgan County
• Otero County
• Ouray County
• Park County
• Phillips County
• Pitkin County
• Prowers County
• Pueblo County
• Rio Blanco County
• Routt County
• Saguache County
• San Juan County
• San Miguel County
• Sedgwick County
• Teller County
• Washington County
• Weld County

Federal lands within Colorado may have different fire restrictions than county or state regulations. BLM Colorado has a dashboard that shares fire information and fire restriction information located on federal land. Additionally, fire restrictions may apply to specific activities, such as campfires and fireworks. It is essential to check local restrictions before engaging in any activities that involve open flames.

Driving tips

Driving in Colorado requires adhering to specific rules and regulations. Here are some essential driving tips to keep in mind when navigating the Rocky Mountain State:

Know the Speed Limits:

Colorado's speed limits can vary, especially on mountain roads. The Rocky Mountains section of Interstate 70, for example, has a maximum speed limit of 65 miles per hour due to its steep inclines and winding curves. Always adhere to the posted speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly to the road and weather conditions.

Seat Belt and Child Restraint Laws:

The state of Colorado mandates the use of seat belts for all occupants of a vehicle. This includes both front and backseat passengers. Children between the ages of 8 and 16 are required to wear seat belts, while children under the age of 8 must be secured in an appropriately sized child safety seat.

Distracted Driving:

Texting while driving is strictly prohibited in Colorado, and no form of mobile phone use is permitted for drivers under the age of 18. This restriction includes talking, texting, or using any mobile applications while the vehicle is in motion.

Impaired Driving:

Driving while impaired by substances such as alcohol or marijuana is illegal and highly dangerous. The blood alcohol limit in Colorado is 0.05%, and driving while intoxicated (DWI) can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines, community service, and even jail time. Similarly, driving under the influence of marijuana is also illegal. By law, drivers with 5 nanograms or more of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per milliliter of whole blood can be prosecuted for DUI.

Right of Way:

Always yield the right of way to buses that are indicating and re-entering traffic. Additionally, be mindful of pedestrians and yield when necessary to avoid accidents or injuries.

Aggressive Driving:

Colorado has strict laws against aggressive driving. Any dangerous actions that put other drivers or pedestrians at risk can result in charges. This includes speeding, sudden lane changes, and failing to yield the right of way.

Parking Regulations:

Be mindful of parking restrictions near specific locations. Do not park within 5 feet of a driveway, 15 feet of a fire hydrant, 50 feet of a railroad crossing, 20 feet of a fire station driveway, or 30 feet of a traffic signal, flashing beacon, or yield sign.

U-Turns:

In Colorado, making U-turns at intersections with traffic signals or those controlled by police officers is illegal. U-turns are also forbidden on interstate highways with 2-4 lanes. Look out for signage indicating where U-turns are prohibited, and always ensure you don't obstruct traffic if you need to perform a U-turn.

Curfew for Teen Drivers:

Teen drivers in Colorado have a curfew. Unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, driving to and from school or work, or in a medical emergency, teens are not permitted to drive between midnight and 5 a.m. during the first year of having their license.

Passenger Restrictions for Teen Drivers:

For the first six months after obtaining a license, teen drivers in Colorado can only have passengers who are 21 years old or older. During the second six months, they are allowed to have one passenger under the age of 21. After the first year or upon turning 18, they may have more than one passenger under 21. However, at any time, only one passenger is allowed in the front seat.

Zero Tolerance for Drunk Driving:

Colorado has a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving, especially for minors. Even a trace of alcohol detected in a minor driver is punishable by law and can result in losing their driver's license.

Remember to always stay alert, be mindful of the changing weather conditions, and adapt your driving behavior accordingly when navigating Colorado's beautiful yet challenging terrain.

Local laws

Colorado is a popular destination for tourists, known for its outdoor activities and natural beauty. When visiting, it is important to be aware of and respect local laws and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here is some information on local laws in Colorado that you should know before your visit:

Outdoor Activity Laws

Colorado offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding. If you plan to participate in any of these activities, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws. For example, Colorado has laws requiring all children under 17 to wear helmets while skiing or snowboarding. The Ski Safety Act outlines the responsibilities of skiers, snowboarders, and ski resorts, emphasizing that ski resort operators can be held liable for negligent maintenance, supervision, or operation.

Hiking and Biking Laws

When exploring Colorado's beautiful hiking trails, it is important to stay on designated paths and respect the natural environment. Damaging or removing plants, rocks, or other natural resources is illegal. Multi-use trail rules include controlling your speed, making your approach known when passing, and yielding to faster users. Respecting animal habitats is crucial, and feeding or approaching wildlife is prohibited.

Trespassing laws are also strictly enforced, so be sure only to hike on designated public lands. Colorado has strict littering laws, and disposing of trash in unauthorized areas can result in a $1,000 fine.

Driving and Traffic Laws

If you plan to drive in Colorado, be sure to follow the local driving and traffic laws. Colorado has strict seat belt laws, requiring all passengers to buckle up. The state also has child car seat laws, mandating that children under eight years old use appropriate car seats or booster seats. Texting or using a handheld cell phone while driving is illegal, and drivers can only use hands-free devices.

Right-of-way laws give pedestrians and bicyclists the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. Colorado law also requires the use of turn signals when turning or changing lanes.

Marijuana Laws

Retail marijuana is legal in Colorado for adults 21 and older. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the local laws and policies regarding marijuana use and purchase. You must present a valid ID when purchasing, and it is illegal to possess or use marijuana under the age of 21. Adults over 21 can possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana, but public use is prohibited. Marijuana use is not permitted in parks, restaurants, bars, or federal lands, including national parks and ski slopes.

Always buy marijuana from licensed retail stores, and be aware that employers can still test for marijuana use and make employment decisions accordingly. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana, with a legal limit of 5 nanograms or less of THC per milliliter of blood.

Other Local Laws and Recommendations

In addition to the laws mentioned above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when visiting Colorado. The state has strict alcohol regulations, and it is essential to follow local laws and consume alcohol responsibly.

Colorado also experiences fire risks during certain seasons, so be mindful of fire restrictions and local guidelines when engaging in activities involving open flames, such as campfires or fireworks.

Lastly, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to follow public health guidelines and recommendations, including wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and getting vaccinated if possible.

By familiarizing yourself with these local laws and guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Colorado.

Frequently asked questions