Report Deceptive Advertising - Denver Consumer Law

Business and Consumer Protection Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 07, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Denver, Colorado consumers who suspect deceptive advertising can report businesses to local and state enforcement offices to seek investigation, corrective orders, and possible penalties. This guide explains where to file a complaint, what evidence to collect, likely enforcement pathways, and practical steps to protect your rights in Denver.

Who Enforces Deceptive Advertising in Denver

The City and County of Denver handles business licensing and some consumer complaints through the Department of Excise and Licenses; statewide deceptive trade practices are enforced by the Colorado Attorney General. For local business-license enforcement and complaint intake, contact Denver's licensing office.[1]

Keep copies of ads, receipts, screenshots, and communication dates.

Penalties & Enforcement

Penalties for deceptive advertising can include fines, corrective orders, restitution to consumers, license suspensions or revocations, and court actions. Exact monetary fines and escalation steps depend on the enforcing authority and the specific ordinance or statute cited; where a fine or amount is not published on the cited page it is noted below.[1][2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences - not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: corrective orders, cease-and-desist notices, license suspension or revocation, and injunctive relief in court.
  • Enforcers: Denver Department of Excise and Licenses for licensed local businesses; Colorado Attorney General for state consumer protection enforcement.[1][2]
  • Appeals and review: administrative appeal to the licensing authority or judicial review in court; time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If a business holds a Denver license, filing with licensing speeds local enforcement.

Applications & Forms

To file a complaint you may find an online complaint form or instructions on the enforcing office pages; if a named form or fee is not published on the cited page this guide notes that.

  • Local complaint form: name/number not specified on the cited page; check the Denver licensing page for an online complaint portal.[1]
  • State complaint form: Colorado Attorney General consumer complaint instructions available online; specific form name or fee not specified on the cited page.[2]

Action steps: gather evidence, file the complaint with Denver and/or Colorado AG, preserve copies, and follow up per the office's process.

How to Document Deceptive Advertising Evidence

Good evidence speeds investigation and increases the chance of remedial action.

  • Collect dated receipts, screenshots of ads (with URL and timestamps where possible), and copies of written or electronic communications.
  • Note names, dates, and phone numbers of company representatives you contacted.
  • Preserve physical samples (labels, flyers) when applicable.
Photo metadata and browser history can corroborate when an ad was shown.

Action Steps to Report

  1. Gather evidence listed above.
  2. File a complaint with the Denver Department of Excise and Licenses following their online or phone intake process.[1]
  3. Consider also filing a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General's consumer protection unit for statewide remedy and restitution.[2]
  4. If enforcement fails, consult the administrative appeal route or civil court options; retain all case numbers and correspondence.

FAQ

Who can file a deceptive advertising complaint?
Any consumer who purchased or was induced by the advertisement, or a consumer advocate acting on behalf of affected consumers, can file a complaint.
Will I have to go to court?
Many cases are resolved administratively; serious or disputed matters may proceed to court if necessary.
How long does an investigation take?
Investigation timelines vary by caseload and complexity; specific timeframes are not specified on the cited pages.

How-To

  1. Document the advertisement and transaction with dates, screenshots, and receipts.
  2. Locate the business's Denver license status and collect the license number if available.
  3. Submit a complaint to Denver Department of Excise and Licenses with your evidence.[1]
  4. File a secondary complaint with the Colorado Attorney General's consumer protection unit if the harm is widespread or cross-jurisdictional.[2]
  5. Keep records, note agency case numbers, and follow guidance on appeals if you receive an adverse decision.

Key Takeaways

  • Collect clear, dated evidence before filing.
  • File with both Denver licensing and the Colorado AG for best coverage.
  • Administrative remedies may include orders, restitution, and license actions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Denver - Department of Excise and Licenses
  2. [2] Colorado Attorney General - Consumer Protection

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