Understanding Wyoming’s security deposit rules helps landlords avoid common headaches like deposit disputes, improper deductions, and missed return deadlines. When you know what the law allows, handling deposits becomes simpler and more predictable.
This guide covers the essentials, including how much landlords can charge, how deposits must be handled, whether interest applies, when deductions are allowed, how deposits must be returned, and what to do if a dispute arises.
Statutes Regulating Wyoming Security Deposits
Wyoming’s security deposit laws appear in Title 1, Chapter 21, Article 12 of the Wyoming Statutes, which outline how landlords collect, hold, deduct from, and return residential security deposits.
Some cities and counties may have regulations that are more restrictive than those presented here. Always check local laws before collecting a security deposit.
Maximum Security Deposit Amounts Under Wyoming Law
| Quick Facts | Answer |
| Maximum / Limit | No Limit |
| Receipt Requirement | None |
| Inventory Requirement | None |
| Interest Requirement | None |
Wyoming law does not cap the amount a landlord may collect for a security deposit. Property owners can set the amount that suits their rental, and that figure stays the same regardless of lease type or contract length.
Wyoming law does not create any notable exceptions that limit deposit amounts for specific situations.
Security Deposit Storage Regulations
Wyoming law does not set any rules for how landlords must store security deposits. The state does not require a specific account type, a receipt, or notice to the tenant. Landlords must simply choose a storage method that fits their rental operations.
Security Deposit Interest in Wyoming
Wyoming law does not require landlords to place security deposits in interest-bearing accounts, and landlords do not have to pay tenants interest on any funds they hold.
Making Security Deposit Deductions
Security deposit deductions help preserve the condition of a rental property. When a tenant leaves damage beyond normal wear and tear, landlords may use the deposit to cover repair costs to return the unit to safe, functional condition.
When Landlords Can Deduct
Wyoming landlords may deduct from a tenant’s security deposit for the following reasons:
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear that requires repair
- Unpaid rent or other charges owed under the rental agreement
- Costs to remove the tenant’s abandoned belongings
- Cleaning expenses needed to restore the property to proper condition
- Repairing unauthorized alterations or modifications made by the tenant
When Landlords Can’t Deduct
Wyoming landlords may not deduct from a tenant’s security deposit for the following reasons:
- Ordinary wear and tear that develops from typical use of the property
- Damage resulting from aging, deterioration, or expected material depreciation
- Minor cosmetic issues that do not require meaningful repair
- Standard cleaning completed during routine turnover
- Problems caused by conditions that the landlord is responsible for resolving
Necessary Documentation to Accompany Deductions
Wyoming law requires landlords to provide tenants with a written, itemized list of all security deposit deductions, outlining each deduction and its cost. While the law does not mandate the provision of receipts or invoices, landlords may share them, or tenants may request them for clarification.
What to Do When Deductions are Greater Than the Deposit
Sometimes, tenant damage or unpaid charges exceed the amount held in the security deposit. When that happens, a Wyoming landlord may request payment from the former tenant for the remaining balance. If the tenant refuses to pay the additional amount owed, the landlord may pursue the balance in their local Wyoming small claims court or through a private collections agency.
Returning Security Deposits to Tenants
Wyoming law sets clear rules for how landlords must return any remaining security deposit funds after making all eligible deductions.
Required Timeline for Return
Wyoming landlords must return any remaining security deposit within 30 days after the lease ends and the landlord regains possession of the unit, or within 15 days after receiving the tenant’s forwarding address, whichever occurs later.
Method for Return
Landlords may return a security deposit by check or another reasonable method. If any portion of the deposit is withheld, Wyoming law requires the landlord to provide a written, itemized list of deductions within the same statutory timeframe for returning the deposit.
Penalties for Late Return
If a Wyoming landlord fails to meet the required return timeline or withholds funds without a valid legal basis, the tenant may recover the full security deposit. Courts may also award additional damages and related costs when a landlord does not comply with the law.
Security Deposit Disputes
Tenants who dispute a landlord’s handling of a security deposit have several options. They may review the itemized statement, request written clarification, or pursue mediation or legal action if they believe the deposit was improperly withheld or handled.
As a landlord, prepare by using move-in and move-out checklists, staying on top of accounting and bookkeeping, and including clear terms in all lease agreements. Strong documentation, strict attention to timelines, and a solid understanding of Wyoming laws also help reduce conflict.
Using Condition Reports to Document Damage
Wyoming landlords should use detailed condition reports to document a unit’s condition at key points during the tenancy. Clear documentation helps track changes, confirm responsibility, and support fair deductions from security deposits.
Landlords can use property management software to create digital reports with photos and videos directly from their smartphones. Documenting the unit thoroughly before move-in and after move-out helps support security deposit deductions and reduces disputes.
Sign up for a free TurboTenant account to simplify documentation and strengthen your rental management process.
FAQs: Wyoming Security Deposit Law
Can a landlord deduct painting from a security deposit in Wyoming?
A landlord may deduct painting costs only when a tenant leaves damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear. Routine repainting tied to typical turnover remains the landlord’s responsibility and does not qualify for a deduction.
Are nail holes considered normal wear and tear in Wyoming?
Small nail holes from lightweight decor usually count as normal wear and tear in Wyoming. Larger holes, wall anchors, or excessive markings may qualify as damage, which allows a landlord to deduct the cost of repairs.
Who has to pay for carpet cleaning in Wyoming, the landlord or the tenant?
A landlord may charge for carpet cleaning only when a tenant leaves stains, heavy dirt, strong odors, or other damage that exceeds ordinary use. Basic cleaning tied to routine turnover stays the landlord’s responsibility and cannot justify a deduction.
What happens if a landlord doesn’t return a security deposit within 30 days in Wyoming?
If a landlord misses the 30-day deadline, the tenant may recover the full deposit. Courts may also award additional damages and related costs when a landlord wrongfully withholds funds or fails to follow Wyoming’s return requirements.
