Wyoming Eviction Process: 3-Day Notices and Legal Timelines
Understand the Wyoming eviction process, legally known as a Forcible Entry and Detainer action, including the 3-day notice to quit for non-payment.
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Wyoming's eviction process—formally known under state law as a "Forcible Entry and Detainer" action and governed by statutes effective since statehood on 10 July 1890—is relatively fast and highly favorable to landlords compared to other states. However, landlords must still follow the strict statutory procedures to legally regain possession of their property.
Pre-Eviction Notices
Before filing a lawsuit, a landlord must provide the tenant with a written notice. The type and duration of the notice depend on the reason for the eviction.
Non-Payment of Rent: 3-Day Notice to Quit
If a tenant fails to pay rent when due, the landlord must serve an unconditional 3-Day Notice to Quit (§ 1-21-1003).
- Important Distinction: Wyoming law requires this 3-day notice to quit prior to filing an action. Under the Forcible Entry and Detainer statutes, this notice is unconditional; the landlord is not legally obligated to accept late rent or provide a "cure" period once the notice is served, and may proceed with the eviction process if the tenant fails to vacate within 3 days.
Lease Violations and Residential Duties
For violations of residential duties under § 1-21-1203(b), the process involves two steps:
- Notice of Non-Compliance: The landlord must serve written notice of the breach. The tenant must be given a "reasonable time" to comply with their duties.
- Termination and Notice to Quit: If the tenant does not comply within a reasonable time, the landlord may terminate the rental agreement. Once terminated, the landlord must then serve the unconditional 3-Day Notice to Quit (§ 1-21-1003) before filing a court action.
Holdover or Month-to-Month Termination
Wyoming statutes are silent on a specific notice period for terminating a month-to-month tenancy without cause. Termination is governed by the specific terms of the lease agreement or common law, which generally requires notice of one full rental period. If the tenant remains in the unit after the notice period expires, the landlord must then serve a 3-Day Notice to Quit before filing an FED action.
The Court Process
If the tenant does not comply with the notice, the landlord must file a Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) action in the local Circuit Court.
- Filing the Complaint: The landlord files a complaint and pays the filing fee.
- Summons: The court issues a summons. According to § 1-21-1004, the summons must be served on the tenant not less than three (3) nor more than twelve (12) days before the day of the trial.
- The Hearing: Both parties appear before a judge. Eviction hearings in Wyoming are usually scheduled quickly.
- The Judgment: If the judge rules in the landlord's favor, they will issue a Writ of Restitution.
Writ of Restitution and Removal
A Writ of Restitution is the legal document that gives the sheriff the authority to remove the tenant.
- Execution Mandate: Per Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1013, the sheriff is strictly required to execute the writ and restore the landlord to possession within two (2) days after receiving the writ (excluding Sundays), unless the defendant files an appeal.
- If the tenant still refuses to leave, law enforcement will execute the writ and physically remove the tenant and their belongings.
Self-Help Evictions: Illegal
Even though Wyoming is landlord-friendly, self-help evictions are illegal. A landlord may not:
- Change the locks.
- Shut off utilities.
- Remove the tenant's belongings.
- Use force or intimidation.
A landlord must always use the formal Circuit Court process. Attempting a self-help eviction exposes the landlord to significant legal liability and financial damages.
Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
▶What is the Wyoming eviction process and how long does it take?
The Wyoming eviction process requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants before filing a court action. The type and length of notice depends on the reason for eviction — typically shorter for non-payment of rent and longer for lease violations or no-fault terminations. Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Wyoming. The full court process varies but typically takes several weeks.
▶What are the Wyoming landlord-tenant laws every property owner should know?
Wyoming is known as a highly landlord-friendly state. Its residential landlord-tenant laws provide property owners with significant flexibility regarding security deposits, rent increases, and lease terms, while maintaining a relatively fast and straightforward eviction process. This guide covers the essential compliance requirements for property owners and landlords.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Wyoming security deposit rules and return deadlines?
Wyoming has specific rules governing how much landlords can charge for security deposits, how deposits must be held, and the deadline for returning deposits after a tenant moves out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from the deposit. Failure to comply with deposit return deadlines can result in penalties and the forfeiture of the landlord's right to claim deductions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Wyoming rent increase laws and caps for landlords?
Wyoming has specific rules governing when and how landlords can increase rent. During a fixed-term lease, rent generally cannot be increased unless the lease explicitly allows it. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide proper written notice before an increase takes effect. Check whether Wyoming has any local rent control ordinances that may impose additional caps or requirements.
Read the complete guide▶What is the grace period for late rent in Wyoming?
Wyoming has specific rules regarding grace periods for late rent and the amount that can be charged as a late fee. Late fee provisions must be stated in the lease agreement, and fees must be reasonable. Check Wyoming state law and any applicable local ordinances for the exact grace period and late fee limits that apply to your rental property.
Read the complete guide▶What disclosures must Wyoming landlords provide to tenants?
Wyoming landlords must provide certain disclosures to tenants before or at the time of lease signing. Common required disclosures include lead-based paint hazards (for pre-1978 buildings, a federal requirement), the identity of the landlord or property manager, and any known material defects in the property. Additional state-specific disclosures may include flood risk, mold hazards, and environmental conditions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Wyoming lease requirements for rental properties?
Wyoming recognizes both written and oral leases, though written leases are strongly recommended for terms longer than one year. Lease agreements should include the rent amount, payment due date, security deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding entry, pets, and subletting. Certain lease clauses that waive tenant statutory rights may be void and unenforceable under Wyoming law.
Read the complete guide▶What are Wyoming landlord maintenance obligations and habitability standards?
Wyoming landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition that is fit for habitation and complies with applicable building, housing, and health codes. This includes maintaining structural integrity, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and pest control. Tenants typically have the right to request repairs in writing, and if repairs are not made within a reasonable time, tenants may have legal remedies available.
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