In Colorado, vehicle lighting regulations are established to ensure road safety and proper vehicle identification. Below is an overview of the authorized use of colored lights and their respective applications:
Standard Vehicle Lighting
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Headlights:
- Vehicles must be equipped with at least two headlights emitting white or amber light.
- Headlights must be turned on from sunset to sunrise and during periods of insufficient light or adverse weather conditions.
- High beams must be dimmed when approaching another vehicle within 500 feet or following within 200 feet.
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Taillights:
- Vehicles are required to have at least one taillight emitting a red light visible from 500 feet to the rear.
- The taillight must illuminate the rear registration plate with a white light, making it clearly legible from 50 feet to the rear.
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Turn Signals:
- Front turn signals must emit white or amber light, visible from at least 100 feet.
- Rear turn signals must emit red or amber light, visible from at least 100 feet.
Restrictions on Colored and Flashing Lights
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Prohibited Colors:
- Vehicles are prohibited from displaying red or blue lights visible from directly in front of the vehicle, except for authorized emergency vehicles.
- Green lights are also prohibited on vehicles.
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Flashing Lights:
- Flashing lights are generally prohibited on vehicles, except for:
- Authorized emergency vehicles, school buses, or snow removal equipment.
- As warning lights on disabled or parked vehicles.
- As a means for indicating a right or left turn.
- Flashing lights are generally prohibited on vehicles, except for:
Authorized Use of Colored Lights
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Emergency Vehicles:
- Police vehicles may use red or blue flashing lights.
- Fire department and other authorized emergency vehicles may use red flashing lights.
- Additional lights may be mounted that display blue, white, or a combination of blue and white.
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Volunteer Emergency Responders:
- Volunteer firefighters and ambulance attendants may equip their personal vehicles with red or red and white flashing lights, visible from 500 feet, upon obtaining the necessary permits.
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Service and Utility Vehicles:
- Tow trucks, construction, and utility vehicles may use amber (yellow) flashing, oscillating, or rotating lights, visible from 500 feet, when presenting a hazard to traffic.
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Snowplows:
- Government-operated snowplows may be equipped with up to two blue lights in addition to the standard amber lights.
Aftermarket and Decorative Lighting
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Underglow Lighting:
- Colorado law does not explicitly prohibit underglow lighting; however, certain restrictions apply:
- Lights visible from the front of the vehicle must not be red or blue.
- Flashing lights are not permitted.
- It's advisable to avoid colors and lighting patterns that could be confused with emergency vehicles to prevent potential legal issues.
Compliance and Penalties
Unauthorized use of colored or flashing lights can result in legal penalties, including fines and points added to the driver's license.
Important Considerations
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Local Ordinances:
- In addition to state regulations, local municipalities may have specific ordinances governing vehicle lighting. Vehicle operators should be aware of and comply with any local requirements.
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Legal Consultation:
- Before installing aftermarket lighting, consult Colorado's vehicle equipment regulations or seek legal advice to ensure compliance with state laws.
For the most current information and any updates to these regulations, consult the Colorado Revised Statutes or contact the Colorado Department of Transportation.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Colorado Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
