Wyoming Eviction Laws
Step-by-step guide for landlords filing an eviction in Wyoming (WY).
3 days
Pay or Quit
3 days
Cure or Quit
30 days
Notice to Vacate
$40–$100
Filing Fee
Wyoming Quick Facts
- Typical timeline: 14–30 days
- Jury trial available: No — judge decides
- Self-help eviction: Banned — changing locks, removing belongings, or shutting off utilities is illegal
- State notes: Forcible Entry and Detainer filed in Circuit Court or Justice of the Peace Court.
Self-Help Eviction is Illegal in Wyoming
You cannot change the locks, remove the tenant's belongings, shut off utilities, or physically remove the tenant yourself. Doing so exposes you to significant civil and potentially criminal liability. You must use the court process.
Step-by-Step Process in Wyoming
- 1
Confirm valid grounds for eviction
In Wyoming, valid grounds include nonpayment of rent, lease violations, illegal activity, or expiration of the lease term. Document everything in writing before proceeding.
- 2
Serve written notice (3-day pay-or-quit for nonpayment)
Deliver the notice via the method required by Wyoming law — typically personal delivery, posting + mailing, or certified mail. Keep proof of delivery. The notice period begins the day after service.
- 3
Wait out the notice period
Do not file with the court until the full 3-day notice period has expired and the tenant has neither paid nor vacated. Accepting any rent payment after serving notice may void the notice in Wyoming.
- 4
File with the court
File an Unlawful Detainer (or equivalent) action with your local Wyoming court. Court filing fees in Wyoming typically run $40–$100. Bring copies of your lease and notice.
- 5
Serve the tenant with the summons
The court will issue a summons. The tenant must be properly served — usually by a process server or sheriff. Improper service is a common reason cases are dismissed.
- 6
Attend the hearing
Bring all documentation: signed lease, notice with proof of service, rent ledger, and any communications. In Wyoming, a judge decides the facts — no jury.
- 7
Obtain a Writ of Possession
If you win, the court issues a Writ of Possession (sometimes called a Writ of Restitution). There is typically a short waiting period before the writ can be executed.
- 8
Sheriff lockout (if needed)
If the tenant does not leave voluntarily, the sheriff's office executes the writ and removes the tenant. You may not change locks or remove belongings yourself — self-help eviction is illegal in Wyoming.
Notice Types in Wyoming
Pay or Quit — 3 days
Used when the tenant has not paid rent. The tenant must pay in full or vacate within 3 days.
Cure or Quit — 3 days
Used for fixable lease violations (unauthorized pets, unapproved occupants, etc.). The tenant has 3 days to fix the violation or vacate.
Notice to Vacate (Non-Renewal) — 30 days
Used to end a month-to-month tenancy or notify the tenant you will not renew the lease. Must be served at least 30 days before the desired move-out date.
Find Wyoming Court Forms
Search for “Wyoming unlawful detainer forms” or “Wyoming eviction forms” on your state court's official website (.gov domain). Many states provide free self-help court forms for landlords.
Helpful Resources
Disclaimer
This is general legal information, not legal advice. Wyoming eviction laws change frequently and local ordinances (city/county) may impose additional requirements. Consult a licensed attorney in Wyoming for your specific situation.