Wyoming Landlord Tenant Laws

Contents

DISCLAIMER

This article provides general information and is not legal advice. For accuracy and specific guidance on landlord-tenant laws, consult an attorney before making any decisions or taking action.

Overview

DEPOSIT

  • There is no maximum security deposit limit in Wyoming.
  • Landlords have 30 days to return the deposit after move out.
  • Landlords can deduct repairs beyond normal wear and tear, unpaid rent and utilities and fees for early termination or cleaning.

RENT CONTROL

  • There is no rent control in Wyoming.
  • There is no statute regarding rent increase notice period - but best practice is to provide 'reasonable' notice often at least 30 days.

NOTICE OF ENTRY LAWS

  • Landlords must give 'reasonable' notice before entering the premise for repairs or inspections (except in the case of an emergency).

RE-KEYING LAWS

  • No statute.

RENTAL AGREEMENT

  • Oral lease agreements are allowed for leases of less than a year.
  • It is always advisable to have a written lease, even for shorter term leases.

LATE FEES & GRACE PERIODS

  • Reasonable late fees are allowed in Wyoming.
  • There is no mandatory grace period in Wyoming.

SMOKING LAWS

  • It is legal for owners and managers to ban smoking on and in properties in Wyoming.

PET LAWS

  • Pet deposits are allowed in Wyoming.

SECTION 1

1. Wyoming Landlord-Tenant Rights and Responsibilities 

Wyoming's landlord-tenant laws, primarily governed by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, establish essential rights and obligations for both parties involved in rental agreements. 

Wyoming Landlord Responsibilities and Rights

Rights

Wyoming state law grants landlords specific rights to effectively manage their rental properties, protecting them from potential legal and financial complications. Key rights include:

  • Charging Rent: Landlords have the right to charge and receive timely rent payments, ensuring a steady income stream from their properties.
  • Collecting Security Deposits: They can collect security deposits to cover unforeseen expenses at the end of a lease, such as damages or unpaid rent.
  • Eviction Proceedings: If tenants breach the terms of the rental agreement, landlords are entitled to pursue legal eviction proceedings. This process must follow specific legal guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency.

Responsibilities

Landlords in Wyoming also have critical obligations during a tenancy. Their key duties include:

  • Providing Habitable Housing: Landlords must ensure that rental units are safe and habitable, free from health hazards and housing discrimination.
  • Timely Repairs: They are required to make repairs within a reasonable time frame after receiving written notice from tenants about necessary maintenance.
  • Returning Security Deposits: After the lease ends, landlords must return the tenant’s security deposit within 30 to 60 days, depending on whether there is any damage.

Wyoming Tenant Responsibilities and Rights

Rights

Tenants in Wyoming are empowered with essential rights designed to ensure their safety and well-being in rental properties. Core rights include:

  • Habitability Standards: Tenants have the right to reside in a rental property that meets health and safety codes, is habitable, and is free from housing discrimination.
  • Prompt Repairs: They are entitled to receive timely repairs after providing written notice to the landlord regarding maintenance issues.
  • Legal Recourse: Tenants can pursue legal action if their landlord breaches the lease agreement or fails to uphold their responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Tenants also bear specific responsibilities that help maintain the property and protect landlords' financial interests.  These duties include:

  • Timely Rent Payments: Tenants must pay rent when due, adhering to the terms outlined in their lease agreement.
  • Respecting Neighbors: They should avoid disturbing other tenants or neighbors, promoting a peaceful living environment.
  • Maintaining Cleanliness: Tenants are responsible for keeping their units clean and sanitary, removing garbage and waste regularly.
  • Common Areas Maintenance: If applicable, they should keep common areas clean.
  • Proper Use of Facilities: Tenants must use all facilities, appliances, and utilities reasonably, avoiding misuse that could lead to damage.
  • Minor Repairs: They are expected to handle small repairs and routine maintenance as needed.
  • Property Care: Tenants should not damage or destroy any part of the property.
  • Allowing Access for Repairs: They must allow landlords to enter the property for legitimate reasons related to tenancy during reasonable hours.
  • Occupancy Limits: Tenants should avoid exceeding the maximum number of occupants allowed in the rental unit as specified in the lease agreement.

Required Notices Before Entry

Landlords in Wyoming must provide ‘reasonable’ notice before entering rental units. Tenants are prohibited from “unreasonably” denying access to the rental unit or refusing a landlord entry (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1205)

In emergencies, landlords may enter without prior notice.

Late Fees for Rent in Wyoming

Wyoming law does not impose a statutory limit on late fees. Landlords may adopt any reasonable late rent policy as long as it is clearly stated in the lease agreement. 

This flexibility allows landlords to establish terms that suit their management style while ensuring tenants are aware of potential penalties for late payments.

There is no mandatory grace period in Wyoming.

SECTION 2

2. Wyoming Rent Increase Laws

Wyoming does not impose statewide rent control laws, allowing landlords significant discretion in setting and increasing rental prices. This absence of regulation means that landlords can adjust rents to reflect current market conditions when a lease expires or with proper notice during an existing lease term.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

There is no state statute regarding the required notice periods for raising rent in Wyoming. However, it is considered best practice that landlords follow the notice period guidelines outlined below when raising rents in order to maintain good relations with tenants and avoid potential legal disputes:

  • Month-to-Month Leases: Providing at least 30 days written notice before implementing a rent increase ensures tenants have adequate time to prepare for the change.
  • Fixed-Term Leases: For leases with a fixed end date, such as annual leases landlords cannot raise the rent during the lease term. Instead, they need to wait until the lease expires. Additionally, landlords should again give at least 30 days' notice before the expiration of the lease term if they want to raise the rent.

There are no statutory limits on how much landlords can increase rent from one lease term to another.

Some leases may include clauses allowing landlords to pass through increases in property taxes, utilities, maintenance costs, and other expenses. Such provisions enable landlords to raise rents under the terms outlined in the lease agreement without additional notice.

Limitations on Rent Increases

While Wyoming's laws grant landlords broad authority to increase rents, certain restrictions are in place:

  • Retaliation and Discrimination: Rent increases cannot be enacted as retaliation against tenants exercising their legal rights or based on discriminatory practices. Under federal and state fair housing laws, landlords are prohibited from increasing rent based on race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics.
  • Fixed-Term Leases: During a fixed lease term, landlords generally cannot raise rents unless explicitly permitted by the lease agreement. This restriction helps protect tenants from unexpected financial burdens during their tenancy.

SECTION 3

3. Wyoming Rental Application Laws

Wyoming's rental application laws are designed to promote transparency and fairness in the housing process, benefiting both landlords and tenants. Understanding these laws is crucial for fostering a respectful rental relationship. 

Below is a comprehensive overview of key components related to rental applications in Wyoming.

Wyoming Tenant Screening Laws: Overview

Landlords in Wyoming should be familiar with the state's specific tenant screening regulations, which differ from those in neighboring states. Staying up-to-date on these laws is crucial for effective tenant management.

Here are some key details about Wyoming tenant screening:

  • No Cap on Application Fees: Wyoming does not impose a limit on how much landlords can charge for application fees. However, setting excessively high fees may deter potential tenants, leading them to seek housing elsewhere.
  • Reasonable Fees: To attract a larger pool of applicants, landlords should aim to set reasonable application fees. This increases the chances of finding quality tenants.
  • Non-refundable Fees: In Wyoming, application fees are non-refundable, meaning tenants do not get their money back, even if their application is unsuccessful.

Maximum Rental Application Fees In Wyoming

No statute. In Wyoming, landlords have the discretion to set application fees without any statutory limit. This means that landlords can charge any amount they deem appropriate. Application fees in Wyoming are non-refundable.

Despite there being no statute landlords should make sure the application fees are reasonable and use the fees to cover the actual cost of screening the tenant and processing the application.

Fair Housing Laws

The federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits discrimination against tenants based on several protected categories, including:

  • Race
  • Nationality
  • Religion
  • Sex
  • Familial status
  • Disability
  • Criminal history

While Wyoming adheres to these federal standards, it also allows certain local exemptions. For instance, landlords may inquire about a tenant's age when renting to seniors or ask if prospective tenants have children when evaluating applications for family-oriented housing. 

Notice of Eligibility in Wyoming

Transparency in the screening process is essential. Landlords are required to inform potential tenants about the criteria used for screening and the reasons for any potential denial or approval of their application. 

To ensure compliance, landlords must obtain a signature from applicants acknowledging that they have received this information. 

Consent for Credit Checks in Wyoming

Under the Federal Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), landlords must obtain written consent from applicants before conducting credit checks. This requirement ensures that tenants are aware of their rights regarding personal information and credit history. 

The application form should include a section where applicants can provide this consent, thereby safeguarding both parties and promoting a fair screening process.

Essential Components of a Rental Application

A well-structured rental application should encompass various critical elements:

  • Personal Information: Full name, contact details, and date of birth.
  • Rental History: Previous addresses along with landlord references.
  • Employment and Income: Current employment details and proof of income.
  • Credit Check Consent: Written permission for credit checks.
  • Personal References: Contacts who can attest to the applicant's character.
  • Background Check Consent: Acknowledgment for conducting background checks.

Including these components not only streamlines the application process but also provides landlords with the necessary information to make informed decisions.

Important Lease Agreement Disclosures in Wyoming

Before finalizing any lease agreement, landlords must disclose several important details to prospective tenants:

  • Property Conditions: Tenants should be informed about any known hazards or issues with the property.
  • Utility Responsibilities: Clear communication regarding which party is responsible for utility payments is essential.
  • Security Deposit Terms: Landlords must outline the conditions under which security deposits will be held and returned.
  • Smoking Policies: Any restrictions related to smoking on the property should be clearly stated.
  • Rent Control Rules: Although Wyoming does not currently have rent control laws, landlords should still clarify any relevant policies that may apply.

Source: Free Wyoming Rental Application Form | LawDistrict

SECTION 4

4. Wyoming Tenant Deposit Laws

Understanding security deposit laws is crucial for both landlords and tenants in Wyoming. These laws, primarily outlined in Wyo Stat § 1-21-1208, establish the framework for collecting, managing, and returning security deposits. 

What Is The Maximum Security Deposit Limit In Wyoming?

Wyoming law does not set a maximum limit on security deposits. This means landlords are free to determine the deposit amount based on their discretion, as long as it is stated in the rental agreement.

Generally speaking a reasonable security deposit is deemed to be equal to 1 - 2 months rent which is collected alongside the first and/or last month's rent before the beginning of the tenancy.

Are Pet Deposits Allowed In Wyoming?

Wyoming law does not explicitly address pet deposits. However, landlords can include specific clauses in the rental agreement regarding pet deposits, and such deposits can be considered part of the overall security deposit. These deposits, like other security deposits, can be used to cover damages beyond reasonable wear and tear, including damage caused by pets, as long as the rental agreement allows for it.

If a landlord intends to retain any portion of the pet deposit, they must follow the same guidelines as with standard security deposits, including providing an itemized list of deductions upon lease termination.

Note that landlords cannot ask for a pet deposit in Wyoming or any other state for animals that are deemed to be assistance animals as these are protected under Fair Housing Laws.

What Can Landlords Deduct From the Deposit In Wyoming?

Upon lease termination, landlords can apply the security deposit to:

  • Accrued rent that is unpaid at the time of lease termination.
  • Damages to the rental unit that go beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Cleaning costs necessary to return the unit to the condition it was in at the start of the rental agreement.
  • Any other costs as specified in the rental agreement.

(Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208(a))

Do Landlords Need To Provide an Itemized List of Deposit Deductions In Wyoming?

Landlords must provide a written itemization of any deductions made from the security deposit, along with the reasons for the deductions. This itemization must be delivered or mailed to the renter within 30 days after the termination of the rental agreement or within 15 days after receiving the renter’s new mailing address, whichever is later. (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208(a)

How Must Landlords Hold Security Deposits In Wyoming?

Wyoming statute Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208 does not specify any particular way landlords must hold security deposits, such as in a separate bank account. does not include provisions on how security deposits should be held during the tenancy. 

It is always good practice to hold security deposits in a separate bank account designated solely for this purpose and inform the tenant of its location within a reasonable time. This ensures that the funds remain in trust for the tenant until the lease concludes. 

How Long Do Landlords Have To Return The Security Deposit In Wyoming?

Landlords must return the balance of the deposit and provide the written itemization of any deductions within:

  • 30 days after termination of the rental agreement or
  • 15 days after receiving the renter’s new mailing address, whichever is later.

If there is damage to the rental unit, this period is extended by an additional 30 days, making the total time up to 60 days in such cases, according to Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208(a)

Should a landlord fail to comply with these timelines or provide proper documentation, tenants may be entitled to recover their full deposit along with court costs if they pursue legal action.

Do Landlords Need To Pay Interest On Security Deposits In Wyoming?

No, Wyoming law does not require landlords to pay interest on security deposits. In fact, WY Stat § 1-21-1208 specifically states that the deposit is to be returned without interest.

SECTION 5

5. Wyoming Leasing Agreements

A rental agreement, or lease, is a legally binding document in Wyoming that outlines the terms between a landlord and tenant. Below is an overview of the key components of a lease that can help both parties avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Are Oral Lease Agreements Allowed In Wyoming?

Wyoming does allow oral lease agreements, but they are only enforceable for leases of one year or less.

It is recommended that landlords put all leases, no matter the length, into written contracts to avoid potential legal disputes down the line. Without a written contract it may be hard to enforce certain aspects of the lease.

Key Components of a Wyoming Lease Agreement

  • Identification of Parties: The lease must include the full names and contact information of both the landlord and tenant. This ensures accountability and clarity regarding responsibilities.
  • Property Description: A detailed description of the rental property, including its address, is essential. For properties built before 1978, federal law mandates disclosures regarding lead-based paint to inform tenants of potential risks.
  • Lease Duration: Wyoming allows for both fixed-term leases (often one year) and month-to-month agreements. If no specific term is stated, the lease defaults to month-to-month, providing flexibility for both parties.
  • Rent and Security Deposit: The lease should specify rent amounts, due dates, and payment methods. Security deposits are typically capped at two months' rent for fixed-term leases; landlords have 14 days to return deposits post-lease or up to 30 days if deductions are made.
  • Maintenance Responsibilities: The lease must clarify maintenance obligations. Landlords are responsible for ensuring the property is safe and habitable, while tenants should maintain cleanliness and report repair needs promptly.
  • Utilities and Services: The lease should specify which utilities are included in the rent and which are the tenant’s responsibility to prevent confusion over payments. Clear communication about utilities can significantly enhance the rental experience.
  • Termination and Renewal Conditions: The lease must detail termination conditions, including notice periods (typically 60 days for landlords) and renewal options.
  • Additional Clauses: Landlords may include specific provisions like rent increase policies or subletting rules. Legal consultation is advisable to ensure compliance with Wyoming law, as well as to address any unique circumstances that may arise during the tenancy.

Legal Considerations

Landlords must adhere to federal and local housing discrimination laws, protecting tenants from unfair treatment based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, or disability. 

Free Resources: Wyoming Standard Residential Lease Agreement | eForms

SECTION 6

6. Wyoming Laws Around Breaking a Lease for Landlords and Tenants 

Breaking a lease in Wyoming can be a complex matter, involving various legal considerations and potential consequences for both tenants and landlords. 

Liabilities for Breaking a Lease

When a tenant breaks a lease, they may be liable for rent until a new tenant is found or until the lease period expires, unless the lease agreement specifies otherwise. 

According to the Wyoming Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must mitigate damages by actively seeking a new tenant. This means that landlords cannot simply sit back and wait for the lease to expire; they must make reasonable efforts to re-rent the property, which can help reduce the financial burden on the departing tenant.

Notice Requirements To End A Lease

Wyoming law does not stipulate a notice period for bringing a lease to an end in its statute. Typically, a lease with a fixed term end date cannot be terminated early unless a breach of the lease has occurred. 

For a periodic lease, such as a month-to-month lease, however, a 30 day notice to vacate is required to bring the lease to an end. (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1203) Though a longer notice period can be beneficial allowing more time for the landlord to find a replacement tenant and the tenant to find a replacement home. 

Landlords should outline their specific requirements in the lease agreement. The notice should clearly state the party’s intention to terminate the lease and include the proposed vacating date. 

Failure to provide adequate notice may result in financial liabilities for the tenant or legal disputes for the landlords.

Legal Grounds for Early Termination

Tenants in Wyoming may seek early termination of their lease under certain circumstances. Common legal grounds include:

  • Job Relocation: If a tenant is required to move due to job-related reasons, they may be able to terminate their lease early.
  • Home Purchase: Tenants who have purchased a home may also qualify for early termination.
  • Landlord Responsibilities: The owner of the residential rental unit must provide a safe and habitable condition (e.g., working plumbing, electrical systems, heating). (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1203(a))

It is essential for tenants to carefully review their lease agreements and state laws to understand the specific conditions under which early termination is permissible. Verifying that their reasons align with legal standards can prevent disputes or financial repercussions.

Wyoming: Owner's Right To Early Termination Of Tenancy Due To Cost Of Repairs

In Wyoming there is an additional law that allows rental property owners the right to early termination of a lease should the renter notify them in writing about a failure to meet health and safety standards (e.g., no heat or unsafe conditions). 

The owner can refuse to correct the issue if the cost of repairs is deemed unreasonable, the owner has the right to then terminate the lease under these conditions.

The owner must notify the renter of the termination in writing within a reasonable time, giving the renter a period of at least 10 days but no more than 20 days to find substitute housing and vacate the premises. (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1203(d))

The renter will receive prorated rent and a refund of any deposit due according to (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208)

SECTION 7

7. Wyoming Eviction Process and Law

In Wyoming, the eviction process is structured to balance the rights of both landlords and tenants, ensuring disputes are resolved fairly and legally.

Wyoming eviction Law is covered by (Wyo. Stat. 10 § 1.21.1001 to § 1.21.1017)

Grounds for Eviction in Wyoming

Landlords in Wyoming must adhere to specific legal grounds when initiating an eviction. The primary reasons include:

  • Nonpayment of Rent: This is one of the most common grounds for eviction. If a tenant fails to pay rent, landlords can initiate the eviction process after providing a proper notice.
  • Lease Violations: Any breach of the lease agreement, such as unauthorized pets or illegal activities, can be grounds for eviction.
  • Property Damage or Safety Concerns: Damage to the property or actions that create safety hazards also justify eviction.

Each of these grounds requires adherence to specific protocols and documentation, including the appropriate eviction forms recognized by Wyoming courts.

Summary of Eviction Notices in Wyoming

  • 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate: For non-payment of rent.
  • 3-Day Notice to Cure or Vacate: For lease violations or illegal activity.
  • 3-Day Notice to Vacate: For holdover tenants, health/safety violations, or property sales.
  • 30-Day Notice to Vacate: For ending a month-to-month tenancy without cause.

Detailed Breakdown Of Wyoming Eviction Notices

Wyoming law mandates specific notice requirements within the eviction process timeline. Depending on the violation, landlords must provide tenants with a Notice to Quit, which can range from three days for nonpayment of rent to up to thirty days for other lease violations. 

These notices are legally binding prerequisites before filing an eviction complaint and are critical steps toward regaining possession of a property.

If the tenant fails to pay rent within three days after it is due, the landlord can issue a written notice demanding payment. If the tenant does not pay within the three-day period, the landlord may initiate eviction proceedings.

If a tenant violates any terms of the lease agreement (such as unauthorized pets, illegal activity, or damaging the property), the landlord can give the tenant a three-day notice to cure the violation. If the tenant does not resolve the issue, the landlord can pursue eviction.

If a tenant continues to occupy the rental property after the lease has expired without the landlord’s consent (a holdover tenant), the landlord can serve a three-day notice to vacate. If the tenant does not leave within that period, the landlord can file for eviction.

 If a tenant is involved in illegal activities on the rental property, such as drug use or criminal behavior, the landlord can issue a three-day notice to vacate. This type of notice does not allow the tenant an opportunity to cure the violation.

If the tenant’s actions (e.g., creating a health hazard, disrupting neighbors) violate local laws or health/safety codes, the landlord may serve a notice requiring the tenant to remedy the issue within three days or face eviction.

 In Wyoming, a landlord can terminate a month-to-month tenancy without needing to provide a specific reason. The landlord must give the tenant at least 30 days' written notice to vacate the property. This type of notice is not for lease violations but simply to end the periodic tenancy.

If the property has been sold in a foreclosure, under a trust deed, or through judicial processes (e.g., foreclosure proceedings), the new owner can issue a three-day notice demanding possession. If the previous occupant refuses to leave, eviction proceedings can be initiated.

Wyoming Eviction Process

The formal eviction process involves several key steps:

  • Notice Issuance: The landlord serves a written notice (typically three days for nonpayment or up to thirty days for other violations).
  • Filing an Eviction Lawsuit: If the tenant does not comply with the notice, the landlord files an eviction lawsuit (known as a forcible entry and detainer action) in county court.
  • Serving the Tenant: The tenant must be properly served with legal notice regarding the lawsuit, ensuring they are informed of their rights and court date.
  • Court Hearing: Both parties attend a court hearing where evidence is presented. The judge then issues a judgment based on the merits of each case.
  • Move-Out Timeline: If the judgment favors the landlord, tenants typically have two days to vacate the property before law enforcement can intervene. 

SECTION 8

8. Wyoming HOA Laws

Homeowners associations (HOAs) in Wyoming operate under a unique legal framework, as there is no specific statute exclusively governing them. However, several state laws provide essential guidelines that impact the functioning of these associations. 

For Condominiums

The Wyoming Condominium Ownership Act serves as the primary legal framework for condominium associations in the state. This Act is codified in Title 34, Chapter 20 of the Wyoming Statutes, and addresses several critical aspects of condominium ownership and management. 

Key sections include:

  • Short Title: Establishes the name of the Act.
  • Condominium Ownership Recognized: Defines ownership rights concerning air space and common elements.
  • Definitions: Provides clarity on terms used within the Act.
  • Notice to Tax Assessor: Outlines requirements for notifying tax assessors regarding condominium declarations and covenants.

These provisions ensure that condominium owners have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities while promoting orderly management within these communities.

Wyoming HOA Laws on Corporate Governance

The Wyoming Nonprofit Corporation Act, found in Title 17, Chapter 19 of the Wyoming Statutes, governs HOAs and condominium associations that are structured as nonprofit corporations. This Act consists of 18 articles covering various aspects of corporate governance, including:

  • General Provisions: Sets forth foundational guidelines for nonprofit corporations.
  • Organization: Details the formation process for these entities.
  • Members' Meetings and Voting: Regulates how meetings are conducted and how votes are cast.
  • Directors and Officers: Outlines roles and responsibilities for association leadership.

By adhering to this Act, HOAs can ensure compliance with corporate governance standards while providing a transparent structure for decision-making.

Wyoming HOA Laws on Solar Rights

Under the Wyoming Solar Rights Act, property owners have a recognized right to utilize solar energy. The Act defines a "solar right" as an unobstructed line-of-sight path from a solar collector to the sun, allowing direct sunlight to reach the collector. 

This legislation is crucial for homeowners looking to invest in solar technology, as it establishes protections against restrictions imposed by HOAs that could hinder solar energy use. The Act also clarifies how solar rights can be recorded and any applicable limitations.

Wyoming HOA Laws on Records Inspection

While there is no specific statute regulating homeowners associations directly, the Wyoming Nonprofit Corporation Act provides guidelines that apply to HOAs formed as nonprofit entities. 

According to Sections 17-19-1601 to 17-19-1630 of this Act, members have the right to inspect and copy association records under certain conditions. This transparency is vital for maintaining trust between association members and ensuring accountability in management practices.

Fair Housing

The Wyoming Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on several protected characteristics, including color, national origin, race, sex, religion, familial status, or disability. This Act mirrors provisions found in the federal Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

SECTION 9

9. Wyoming Squatters Rights Laws

In Wyoming, squatters can gain legal ownership of real property through a process known as adverse possession. This legal doctrine allows individuals who occupy land without the owner's permission to claim ownership if they meet specific criteria over a continuous period of ten years. 

Requirements for Adverse Possession

To successfully claim adverse possession in Wyoming, a squatter must fulfill several strict requirements:

  • Open and Notorious Possession: The squatter's use of the property must be visible and obvious, meaning that it should be apparent to anyone, including the legal owner, that they are occupying the land. Concealing their presence would disqualify their claim.
  • Exclusive Possession: The squatter must be the sole occupant of the property. Sharing the space with others, including the owner or any lawful tenants, undermines their claim.
  • Continuous Possession: The squatter must occupy and use the land without significant interruption for the entire ten-year period. Minor interruptions may be acceptable, but any prolonged absence could reset the clock on their claim.
  • Actual Use: The squatter must physically occupy the property and demonstrate control over it. Simply trespassing or using the land sporadically does not satisfy this requirement.
  • Payment of Property Taxes: While it is not strictly required to have paid property taxes during the ten years to claim adverse possession, doing so can strengthen a squatter's case. If the legal owner pays taxes, it interrupts the continuity of possession.

SECTION 10

10. Wyoming Landlord Tenant Legal Resources

Below, you’ll find some helpful Wyoming landlord–tenant law resources:

Documents and Forms

Legal Resources

Wyoming State Agencies & Regulatory Bodies

Wyoming Housing Authorities

Wyoming Realtor and Landlord/Tenant Associations