Illegal Rental Advertisement Language in Colorado: A Renter’s Guide

Searching for a rental in Colorado can feel overwhelming—especially if you notice words or phrases in advertisements that don’t seem fair or make you feel unwelcome. Colorado’s fair housing laws are clear: discriminatory language in rental ads is not allowed. This guide explains what language is illegal in Colorado rental listings, how to identify potential discrimination, and what to do if you suspect a violation. Understanding your rights ensures fair access to housing and can help you respond confidently to problematic ads.

What Makes Rental Ad Language Illegal in Colorado?

Both federal and Colorado law protect renters from discrimination when searching for housing. Under the Fair Housing Act and the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA), it’s illegal for landlords, property managers, or agents to use language in rental advertising that indicates a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on:

• Race or color
• National origin or ancestry
• Sex
• Religion
• Disability
• Familial status (e.g., families with children)
• Sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression
• Marital status

These protections apply whether you see ads on websites, in printed flyers, in social media posts, or in any other form of housing advertisement in Colorado.^[1]

Common Examples of Illegal Language in Rental Ads

To help you spot a possible violation, here are examples of language that is typically not allowed:

• "No children" or "adults only" (discriminates based on familial status)
• "Christian neighborhood" or "must be Christian" (discriminates by religion)
• "Perfect for single professionals" or "no families" (limits by family status and marital status)
• "No wheelchairs" or "must be able-bodied" (discriminates based on disability)
• "Hispanic neighborhood" or "no immigrants" (discriminates by national origin)
• "Straight couples only" or "no LGBTQ" (discriminates by sexual orientation or gender identity)

Advertising that describes the property’s features, but not people, is acceptable. For example: “2nd-floor unit, no elevator” is legal; “No disabled tenants” is not.

What If the Discriminatory Language Is Subtle?

Some ads try to hint at preferences without directly saying so—this is called "coded language." Even subtle hints may be illegal. Examples:

• "English-speaking only"
• "Ideal for mature tenants" (may suggest age discrimination)

If you notice language that makes you feel unwelcome or targets a specific group, Colorado law may protect you.

Renter tip: If something about an ad feels discriminatory—even if it’s not obvious—save a copy (screenshot or printout) for your records. This can help if you decide to file a complaint.

Where to File a Complaint About Illegal Rental Ads

If you believe an advertisement violates fair housing laws in Colorado, complaints are handled by the Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD). The CCRD investigates housing discrimination and enforces anti-discrimination laws in the state.

How to File a Complaint

• Form Name & Number: Colorado Civil Rights Division Housing Discrimination Intake Packet
• When to Use: Use this form if you believe you’ve seen a rental ad with illegal language or experienced discrimination during your housing search.
• How It Works: Complete the intake packet describing the ad, when and where you saw it, and why you believe it was discriminatory. Attach evidence like screenshots or photos.
• Download the CCRD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

After you submit your complaint, CCRD staff will follow up for more information and investigate the claim.

Relevant Colorado Tenancy Legislation

Colorado’s major fair housing protections come from:

• Colorado Revised Statutes, Article 34 - Fair Housing Act
• Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA)
• The federal Fair Housing Act

These laws are regularly updated to reflect new protected classes and evolving language. For the most current protections, visit the Colorado Civil Rights Division website.

What to Expect After Filing a Complaint

The CCRD will review your complaint and may contact you for more details. They will also reach out to the landlord or advertiser. You may need to provide further evidence, so keep all documentation related to the ad.

FAQ: Illegal Language in Colorado Rental Advertising

1. What words are landlords not allowed to use in Colorado rental ads?
   Landlords cannot use any language that indicates a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on protected classes such as race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or family status.
2. Can a landlord advertise 'no pets' or 'no smoking'?
   Yes, a landlord may restrict pets or smoking in rental units, but they cannot deny service animals needed for a disability.
3. If I see a discriminatory ad, can I report it anonymously?
   The Colorado Civil Rights Division may accept anonymous information, but filing a formal complaint often requires your contact information for investigation.
4. Will reporting an illegal ad affect my application for the apartment?
   Fair housing laws protect you from retaliation. Landlords cannot legally deny you housing for exercising your rights.
5. Does age discrimination apply to renters in Colorado?
   Colorado law protects against some forms of age-related discrimination, especially if it's used as a coded exclusion in rental ads.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Rental ads in Colorado must not contain language that discriminates or limits based on protected characteristics.
• Illegal language can be obvious or subtle—know your rights and keep evidence if you see a problematic ad.
• The Colorado Civil Rights Division is your main resource for reporting and addressing discrimination concerns.

If you’re unsure about an ad, don’t hesitate to seek guidance or report your concerns. Standing up for fair housing helps protect all renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Civil Rights Division: File a Housing Discrimination Complaint — Main state agency enforcing fair housing laws.
• Colorado Department of Local Affairs: Fair Housing Resources — Detailed guides, rights, and contact info.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: File a Federal Complaint — For federal fair housing claims.

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1. See the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Fair Housing page for details on protected classes and the law in advertising.
2. Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 24, Article 34 - Colorado Fair Housing Act
3. U.S. Department of Justice - Fair Housing Act
4. For the official agency: Colorado Civil Rights Division

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