Can a Landlord Turn Off Electricity for Non-Payment in Wyoming?

Facing an electricity shut-off due to rent issues can feel stressful for Wyoming renters. Knowing your rights and landlord limitations under Wyoming law puts you in a stronger position. This guide explains when (and if) a landlord can legally shut off your power, what steps you can take, and where to seek help—all according to official state resources.

Who Provides Electricity—Landlord or Tenant?

First, check your rental agreement. In Wyoming, utilities like electricity can either be in the landlord’s name (with the cost included in rent) or in the tenant’s name (billed separately through the utility company). Who pays and controls the electricity determines your options and protections.

• If included in rent: Landlord typically pays the bill and must provide continuous service.
• If in tenant's name: You’re responsible for payment. Non-payment may lead to shut-off by the utility—not the landlord.

Is It Legal for a Landlord to Shut Off Electricity for Non-Payment?

No, Wyoming law generally prohibits landlords from shutting off essential services—like electricity—to force payment or to make tenants leave. This is called a “self-help eviction,” which is illegal under Wyoming Statutes Title 1, Chapter 21, Section 1203 (Residential Rental Property Act) and can subject the landlord to legal penalties¹.

• Only a utility company can disconnect your service for non-payment if the account is in your name.
• Landlords must use the court eviction process—not utility shut-offs—for non-payment of rent.
• If your landlord includes utilities in rent and the power is shut off because they didn’t pay the bill, this may be considered a breach of the rental agreement.

If your landlord turns off your electricity to push you out or get you to pay, contact local authorities or the court—this is a violation of Wyoming law.

What Can You Do If Your Electricity Gets Shut Off?

Take these steps if you experience an unlawful utility shut-off by your landlord in Wyoming:

• Document everything: Record dates, times, conversations, and keep any utility company notices you receive.
• Inform your landlord in writing that the shut-off is unlawful.
• Contact your local law enforcement if your health or safety is at risk.
• You can file a complaint in the circuit court.

Official Complaint Process and Forms

Wyoming does not use a specific “tenant complaint form” for this issue. Instead, you may file an enforcement action in Wyoming Circuit Court. The typical process involves submitting a “Complaint for Damages” if you suffered harm or expenses due to the illegal utility shut-off. For general landlord/tenant disputes, see Wyoming Judicial Branch Forms for relevant documents.

• Form Name: Civil Complaint Form (no number assigned)
• When/How It’s Used: To start a legal action in circuit court against your landlord. For example, if you had to pay for alternative housing during an unlawful shut-off, this form allows you to claim those damages.
• Download official Civil Complaint Form

Wyoming’s Eviction and Utility Shut-Off Rules

Landlords must follow the official eviction process laid out in the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act. Shutting off utilities to force tenants out is never a lawful alternative to this process.

• The relevant tribunal is the Wyoming Circuit Court.
• Tenants may be eligible for damages if the landlord unlawfully deprives them of heat, water, or electricity.

FAQ: Wyoming Renters and Electricity Shut-Off

1. Can my landlord legally cut off my electricity if I miss a rent payment in Wyoming?
   No. Landlords in Wyoming cannot lawfully shut off your electricity to force payment or make you leave. Only the courts can evict you; utility shut-off is not a legal method.
2. What if the power is in my name, but I’m behind on rent?
   Your landlord cannot request a utility shut-off for non-payment of rent. The utility company may disconnect your service if you do not pay your own bill.
3. What should I do if my landlord turns off electricity as a punishment?
   Document what happened, notify your landlord (in writing) that the action is unlawful, and contact your county's circuit court for assistance.
4. Is there a government agency to file an electricity shut-off complaint?
   There isn’t a specific agency for these complaints in Wyoming. File a complaint or action at your local circuit court for tenant-landlord disputes.
5. Can I sue my landlord for damages if they unlawfully disconnect utilities?
   Yes, you can file a complaint in circuit court claiming damages or losses resulting from the illegal shut-off.

Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

• Landlords in Wyoming cannot lawfully shut off electricity to force rent payment or eviction.
• Only courts—not landlords—handle disputes related to non-payment of rent.
• Use the circuit court’s complaint process if you suffer a shut-off or need to recover costs.

Remember, even if you're behind on rent, you still have important legal protections for essential utilities in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wyoming

• Wyoming Circuit Court Locations – For filing landlord/tenant actions, including illegal utility shut-offs.
• Official Wyoming Court Forms – Access civil complaint forms and tenancy court paperwork.
• Wyoming Community Development Authority – Renter resources and housing support (not a legal authority, but helpful for tenant support).
• For urgent safety issues (like lack of heat, water, or power), contact local law enforcement or Wyoming Department of Health at health.wyo.gov.

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1. Wyoming Statutes Title 1, Chapter 21, Section 1203 (Residential Rental Property Act)
2. Wyoming Circuit Courts – Official Tribunal Listing
3. Wyoming Judicial Branch – Court & Complaint Forms

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