Colorado Security Deposit Law (2026): Limit & Deadline

Maximum deposit

No statutory limit

Return deadline

30 days, unless the lease specifies a longer period not to exceed 60 days

Controlling statute

No statutory dollar cap. Colorado sets no statewide limit on the deposit amount — but local ordinances may, and the return deadline above still applies. Market practice is typically 1–2 months of rent.

Maximum security deposit in Colorado

No statutory limit. HB25-1249 (signed June 3, 2025, eff. Jan 1, 2026) sets return at 30 days (up to 60 if the lease so specifies). Prior law: 'one month, not to exceed 60 days.'

Returning the deposit

30 days, unless the lease specifies a longer period not to exceed 60 days (per HB25-1249, eff. Jan 1, 2026; previously one month/up to 60 days). Read Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103 for the exact triggers, itemization requirements, and penalties for late or bad-faith withholding.

Compare with other states

See the full sortable table in our free security deposit limits by state tool, or jump to another state below.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in Colorado?

No statutory limit. HB25-1249 (signed June 3, 2025, eff. Jan 1, 2026) sets return at 30 days (up to 60 if the lease so specifies). Prior law: 'one month, not to exceed 60 days.' This is a best-effort summary verified against the official statute (Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103) on June 7, 2026 — always confirm with the current law or an attorney.

When must a landlord return a security deposit in Colorado?

30 days, unless the lease specifies a longer period not to exceed 60 days (per HB25-1249, eff. Jan 1, 2026; previously one month/up to 60 days). See Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103 for the exact conditions and any itemization requirements.

What statute governs security deposits in Colorado?

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 38-12-103. The official text is published by the state at https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1249.

Is this legal advice?

No. This page is a best-effort summary compiled from primary legal authority and verified on June 7, 2026. Statutes change, and many states use tiers or exceptions a summary can't capture. Confirm with the current statute or a licensed attorney before relying on it.

Colorado security deposit law