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How to Get an FFL in Colorado

Restrictive for FFLs Updated June 2026

Universal background checks and a magazine capacity limit of 15 rounds apply.

Business Requirements

LLC / business entityRecommended
State business registrationRequired
Tax registration / EINRequired
Sales tax registrationRequired (2.9% base)
Employer registrationIf hiring employees

Firearms Regulations

State dealer license Not required
Waiting period3 days
Universal background checks Yes
Magazine restrictions15-round limit
Suppressors legal Yes
NFA items allowed Yes
Assault weapon restrictions None

Local Requirements

Home-based FFLLimited
Zoning considerationsVerify with local zoning office
County licensingMay apply — check county clerk
Municipal restrictionsCommon — verify locally

ATF Requirements

Federal regulations27 CFR Part 478
Required formATF Form 7 (5310.12)
Application processApply → fingerprints → interview → issued
Inspection expectationsIn-person IOI inspection
RecordkeepingA&D bound book + Form 4473

Estimated Cost Breakdown

Federal FFL fee (Type 01)

$200

3-year license term

State + local + setup

$700

Entity, registration, fees

Estimated startup budget

$900+

Excludes inventory

Typical Timeline

  1. Week 1–2

    Form your business entity and register with the state

  2. Week 2–3

    Secure premises and confirm zoning compliance

  3. Week 3–4

    Submit ATF Form 7 with fingerprints and photos

  4. Week 6–10

    ATF IOI interview and premises inspection

  5. Week 8–12

    FFL issued — begin operations and recordkeeping

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Disclaimer: This profile is for educational purposes and is not legal advice. Firearms laws change frequently — always verify current requirements with the ATF and Colorado state and local authorities before acting.