As Colorado prepares to implement a stricter concealed carry law on July 1, gun owners across Douglas County are lining up in record numbers to obtain or renew their permits before the changes take effect. The law introduces additional training requirements and disqualifies some individuals.

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CASTLE ROCK, CO (3-minute read) — A major change in Colorado’s concealed carry permitting process is about to take effect on July 1, and Douglas County residents are scrambling to get ahead of it.

The new law, passed by Democratic lawmakers, mandates that anyone applying for a concealed handgun permit must complete a written exam and a live-fire exercise. The classroom training requirement will double from four to eight hours, now with mandatory live-fire qualification. For renewals, a two-hour refresher or proof of handgun competency will be required.

Additionally, individuals with certain misdemeanor convictions in the past five years will now be disqualified from obtaining a permit.

This impending law has sparked a massive rush. Castle Rock’s Justice Center and the sheriff’s substation in Highlands Ranch have seen long lines of people trying to either get their first permit or renew existing ones. Many residents, like Robin Schween, say they’re acting quickly to avoid what they see as burdensome and unnecessary new requirements.

“It’s becoming more restrictive,” Schween told CBS News. “I just don’t think I should have to go through all that again.”

Jason Kennedy, division chief for the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that the surge is unprecedented. “Over the last year, we’ve seen about a 330% increase in new permits, and renewals have jumped 663%,” he said.

On Tuesday alone, they issued 95 new permits and processed 53 renewals—a single-day record. Kennedy attributes the rush to public frustration and a desire to avoid stricter rules. “It’s been a madhouse down here,” he said. “But we’re here to help the community get their permits.”

With limited equipment—just one fingerprint machine and one camera—the staff is struggling to keep up with demand. People are being advised to arrive early, as appointments must be started by 3:30 p.m. to be processed before the new law kicks in.

Safety Tip: If you’re applying for or renewing a concealed carry permit, take time to ensure your training is up to date and your firearm handling skills are strong. Real-world proficiency can make all the difference in a high-stress scenario.