PDF version

Security at the Capitol

The Colorado State Patrol is responsible for the safety and security of the Capitol and all surrounding state buildings of the Capitol Complex. The security measures are in place to protect employees, visitors and state elected officials. Those who visit the Capitol building will be subject to controlled security measures and screening before entering the Capitol. There will be two entrance locations provided for your convenience. The main entrance is located on Colfax Avenue, north side of the Capitol, first floor. The second entrance is located at 14th Street, south side of the Capitol, basement door.

These security measures will include, but are not limited to:

• Putting personal items in a bin to be passed through an x-ray machine
• Passing through a metal detector
• X-ray and visual examination of all packages
• Packages and or bags subject to physical search

The security protocols are designed to expedite the security process and to ensure the safety of the Capitol Complex employees and visitors. When passing through the metal detectors, items that are metal (change, keys, etc.), and cell  phones should be placed in one of the provided bins. Adults and/or children with special needs and/or medical devices will be assisted through the security process by a security guard or Trooper.

If there is a question regarding an object that is not clearly visible in the x-ray machine a physical search of the item will be conducted until the item is identified. Any person found in violation of the Capitol screening process will be detained for questioning. Any person who is in unlawful possession of a weapon will have the weapon confiscated.

18-12-105 Unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon - unlawful possession of weapons

(1) A person commits a class 2 misdemeanor if such person knowingly and unlawfully:

(a) Carries a knife concealed on or about his or her person; or

(b) Carries a firearm concealed on or about his or her person; or

(c) Without legal authority, carries, brings, or has in such person's possession a firearm or any explosive, incendiary, or other dangerous device on the property of or within any building in which the chambers, galleries, or offices of the general assembly, or either house thereof, are located, or in which a legislative hearing or meeting is being or is to be conducted, or in which the official office of any member,  officer, or employee of the general assembly is located.

Concealed Weapon (CCW) permit holders are also not allowed to carry a weapon inside the Capitol per CRS 18-12-214 (4).

For all other statutes pertaining to weapons, please refer to Colorado Revised Statutes 18-12-101, 18-12-102, and 18-12-106.

For any additional information please visit the General Assembly website or the Colorado State Patrol website.  Or you can call the Executive Security’s dispatch center 24 hours a day at 303‐866‐3660.