• Colorado private investigators must follow all the laws of Colorado.lupe image by mangia from Fotolia.com
  
  A licensed Private Investigator (or P.I.) is a person who conducts investigations for a private citizen or company, rather than for a law enforcement agency. P.I.s must follow the laws of the jurisdiction where they conduct business. In Colorado, P.I.s must obtain special firearm permits and purchase business insurance.
  
  

Business and Insurance Regulations

• Private Investigators do not have to apply for a license to do business in Colorado. However, businesses should carry business and liability insurance before contracting with any clients. According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, if a P.I. employs any workers he is required to carry worker's compensation for his employees and himself. A private investigator may get a waiver from the Department if he is the sole proprietor and only employee.
  
  

Weapons Regulations

• In Colorado, private investigators may carry firearms in their cars as long as their purpose in carrying the weapons is for self-defense, to defend their property, or defend their client's property. If a private investigator has a concealed weapon permit, she may bring a concealed gun into most buildings or businesses. However, concealed weapons may not be carried into schools or government buildings.
  
  

Colorado Criminal Code

• Private investigators are not law enforcement officers and they must always stay within the bounds of the Colorado Criminal Code, just like private citizens. For example, P.I.s may not trespass on private property or break into homes. When P.I.s provide other services, such as repossession or collection services, they are subject to Colorado collection services law. This means that the P.I. may not breach the peace or brandish a weapon while attempting to repossess property.