Is Sports Betting Legal in Colorado?

Colorado has become one of only five states in the country to allow all six major types of betting, including charitable, parimutuel, commercial, tribal, racetrack and lottery forms. Through the Colorado Limited Gaming Act of 1991, the state enforces strict regulations and licensing for gaming establishments while protecting patrons from criminal and corruptive elements. The Colorado Limited Gaming Control Commission falls under the Division of Gaming, which is part of the Department of Revenue that approves budgets and allocates money to other state departments.

Sports Betting

Sports Betting in Colorado requires all types of gambling to be heavily regulated and licensed, yet state law 18-10-101 strictly prohibits any form of betting on the outcome of a game. As a result, sports betting is not allowed in the state.

Even though sportsbooks are not available in the state, bettors can still turn to offshore options for their sports betting needs. Offshore sportsbooks offer bettors convenience, variety and a much safer option than local bookmakers – as they can be trusted to always offer lines and pay out their winnings, unlike local bookies. Furthermore, users can access these books right from their personal computers or mobile devices.

Online Poker

Despite the fact that online gaming, including poker, is not currently regulated in the state of Colorado, those interested in playing have the option to turn to offshore websites. A bill regulating online poker was drafted by the Colorado Gaming Association in 2012 and modeled after New Jersey’s laws but has yet to be introduced to the legislature.

That said, please bet responsibly!