Can my landlord increase trash or recycling fees during my lease?

Not unless your lease specifically allows for fee changes. Any new or increased charges generally require your written agreement.

Do I have to pay for trash if my lease doesn’t mention it?

No. If your lease is silent on trash or recycling, your landlord cannot charge you for these services unless you sign an updated agreement.

Who do I contact if my landlord charges me illegally?

You can contact your local Wyoming Circuit Court or seek support at a local legal aid office.

Is recycling service always separate from trash service in Wyoming?

This depends on your city or county, and whether services are bundled. Check with your municipality and your lease for details.

Can my landlord evict me for not paying a disputed trash bill?

If the charge is not legally supported by your lease, eviction is not appropriate. If included in your lease, withholding payment may result in eviction, so seek advice first.

Can Landlords Charge for Trash and Recycling in Wyoming?

Utilities, Services & Billing Wyoming published June 21, 2025

Understanding your responsibilities for utilities like trash and recycling can help you avoid surprises on your monthly bills. If you rent a home or apartment in Wyoming, it's important to know whether your landlord can legally require you to pay for trash and recycling pickup, and how those fees should be handled under the law.

Who Pays for Trash and Recycling in Wyoming Rentals?

In Wyoming, there is no specific state law that directly addresses which party—landlord or tenant—is responsible for paying for trash or recycling services. Instead, these details are almost always determined by your lease agreement. Most leases will include clauses about utilities, trash, and recycling, so it's important to review your contract carefully.

How Lease Agreements Cover Trash and Recycling

Utilities Included: Some rentals include trash and recycling in the rent. In this case, your landlord handles payments directly.
Tenant Responsibility: If your lease specifies that you are responsible for utilities, you may need to arrange and pay for trash/recycling pickup yourself or reimburse your landlord if they provide the service.
Separate Billing: Landlords can bill tenants separately, but must disclose this in the lease agreement.

Always check the West Edge Wyoming Landlord-Tenant Guide for current explanations on what should be outlined in your rental contract.

Is Charging for Trash Legal in Wyoming?

Wyoming law allows landlords to pass on utility costs, including trash and recycling, to tenants if this is clearly stated in the lease. According to the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act, any additional charge (including utilities or services) must be agreed to in writing between the landlord and tenant¹. If your lease is silent on trash and recycling, your landlord may not be able to charge you for them unless you agree to an amendment.

How Landlords Charge for Trash Service

Direct Billing: You pay the utility company directly for trash/recycling pickup.
Indirect Billing: Landlord pays the bills, then asks you to reimburse them based on the terms in your lease.
Flat Fee: Some landlords may charge a fixed monthly fee for trash and recycling as part of your rent or as a separate charge.

What If You Disagree With a Trash or Recycling Charge?

If you are being charged for trash and recycling you did not agree to, or if you’re uncertain about the terms, take these practical steps:

Review your lease: Look for any clause about trash, recycling, or utilities.
Talk to your landlord: Clarify exactly why you are being billed and on what basis.
Document everything: Keep a written record of correspondence and copies of bills or receipts.
Seek assistance: If you cannot resolve the dispute, reach out to the Wyoming civil courts, where landlord-tenant disputes are usually heard.

Key takeaway: Your landlord can only charge you for trash and recycling if it is clearly outlined in your lease agreement.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

Wyoming Residential Lease Agreement:
When and how to use: This form is used to establish the terms of your rental, including utilities like trash and recycling. Always request a copy and verify utility clauses before signing.
View Sample Wyoming Lease Agreement
Notice of Dispute (No official state form):
When and how to use: If you believe you’re being wrongly charged, send your landlord a written notice citing the disputed charges and requesting clarification or adjustment. There is no official statewide form, so a signed, dated letter will suffice. Keep a copy for your records.

If a dispute remains unresolved, Wyoming tenant-landlord issues are handled by your Wyoming Circuit Courts (the main tribunal for residential rental matters).

Relevant Legislation

All rental agreements and disputes over charges are governed by the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act, especially sections on lease agreements and tenant rights¹.

FAQ

Can my landlord increase trash or recycling fees during my lease?
Not unless your lease agreement specifically allows for fee changes. Any new or increased charges generally require your written agreement.
Do I have to pay for trash if my lease doesn’t mention it?
No. If your lease is silent on trash or recycling, your landlord cannot charge you for these services unless you sign an updated agreement.
Who do I contact if my landlord charges me illegally?
You can contact your local Wyoming Circuit Court or seek support at a local legal aid office.
Is recycling service always separate from trash service in Wyoming?
This depends on your city or county, and whether services are bundled. Check with your municipality and your lease for details.
Can my landlord evict me for not paying a disputed trash bill?
If the charge is not legally supported by your lease, eviction is not appropriate. If included in your lease, withholding payment may result in eviction, so seek advice first.

Conclusion: Know Your Rights on Utility Charges

Landlords in Wyoming can only charge you for trash and recycling if your lease clearly states this responsibility.
Always review your contract before signing and keep records of communication regarding utility charges.
For unresolved disputes, Wyoming Circuit Courts handle residential rental matters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Wyoming Landlord-Tenant Rights Guide – Learn about your rights and responsibilities
Wyoming Circuit Courts – File complaints or resolve landlord-tenant disputes
LawHelpWyoming – Free legal information and help for renters
Contact your city or county government for local trash/recycling ordinances or assistance

Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act