Blocked crossing laws
How long can a train block a crossing in Colorado?
Colorado has no state law that limits how long a train may block a crossing. Checked 16 October 2026.
The rule
Colorado has no time limit for a train blocking a crossing. Since 2024, state law says the state expects trains to be run so they hold up emergency vehicles as little as possible. When an emergency vehicle signals at a blocked crossing, the crew may split the train and clear the crossing; if it is not cleared, the emergency service or the state department that runs the Colorado State Patrol asks the railroad to clear it right away. That department reports such delays to the state rail office at the Public Utilities Commission, which collects blocked-crossing reports.
Exceptions and local rules
The emergency-vehicle rule does not apply to a train stopped by a mechanical failure that cannot be split or moved.
Except for trains or equipment stopped due to mechanical failure where separation or movement is not possible, the state expects that any train or equipment operating on a main line or siding in the state should be operated in such a manner as to minimize obstruction of emergency vehicles at highway-rail crossings.
Does federal law override it?
No federal law sets a time limit for a train blocking a crossing. Federal law does control how railroads run trains, and courts have used it to set aside state time limits.
When a court holds a state limit preempted, the state cannot enforce it against the railroad. A limit no court has ruled on is still on the books, but railroads may challenge it the same way.
Where to report a blocked crossing
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) takes blocked crossing reports from the public for every state.
Report to the FRA blocked crossing reporter
We found no Colorado state page for blocked crossing reports, so the FRA reporter is the place to report.
If a train is blocking the crossing right now, call the railroad on the number shown on the blue sign at the crossing.
Crossings in Colorado
Colorado has 1,753 public crossings in the FRA crossing inventory.