Can Wyoming Landlords Charge Pet Rent? Rules, Limits & Your Rights

If you rent a home or apartment in Wyoming and want to keep a pet, you may wonder if your landlord can charge you extra fees or monthly pet rent. Understanding your rights about pet rent and deposits in Wyoming is important for budgeting and avoiding misconceptions. This guide explains what the law allows, relevant renter protections, and what to do if you encounter disputes with your landlord.

Are Landlords Allowed to Charge Pet Rent or Pet Fees in Wyoming?

Yes, Wyoming landlords are generally allowed to charge pet rent, pet deposits, or one-time nonrefundable pet fees—unless your lease says otherwise. Wyoming’s rental laws do not restrict landlords from adding charges related to pets, which means:

• Your landlord may request a recurring monthly fee (pet rent) for allowing pets
• A separate pet deposit (usually refundable if there’s no pet damage) may be charged
• Landlords can also ask for a one-time, nonrefundable pet fee up front

There is no statewide maximum limit (cap) on how much a landlord can charge for pet rent or pet-related fees in Wyoming as of 2024.

Pets and Service Animals: What’s the Difference?

Under both Wyoming landlord-tenant statutes and federal law, a landlord cannot charge pet fees, rent, or deposits for a registered service animal or emotional support animal, as these are not considered “pets.”

• If you need a service animal, ask your medical provider for documentation. Landlords may ask for paperwork but may not charge extra for the service animal.
• Learn more about disability accommodations from the U.S. Department of Justice Fair Housing Act.

How Do Pet Deposits and Security Deposits Work in Wyoming?

Wyoming law allows landlords to collect a security deposit, which may include an extra amount for pets. There are no legal caps to the security deposit—so pet-related charges are negotiable unless described in your lease.

• A pet deposit is often refundable if your pet does not cause damage beyond normal wear-and-tear.
• PET FEES, if listed as one-time and nonrefundable, cannot legally be withheld from your security deposit at move-out—they must be handled separately.

What Does Your Lease Say?

Most rules about pets, pet rent, deposits, and fees are set by your lease agreement. Read your lease carefully and confirm:

• Whether pets are allowed—and any breed, size, or number restrictions
• If there are recurring charges (pet rent), a one-time pet deposit, or additional nonrefundable fees

What If You Disagree with a Pet Fee or Charge?

If you believe your landlord is charging you an inappropriate pet fee (for example, for a service animal), or not returning a refundable pet deposit, take these steps:

• Talk it out: Start with a friendly discussion or email. Sometimes disputes are just misunderstandings.
• Document everything: Keep written records of your request, your lease, and your communications.
• File a complaint: If you can’t reach a resolution, file a complaint with the Wyoming Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit.

Key State Laws and Where to Get Help

• Wyoming landlord-tenant law is found in the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1201 through § 1-21-1216)^[1].
• No specific forms for pet-related rental disputes exist, but if your deposit is withheld, use the Security Deposit Demand Letter template from Legal Aid of Wyoming to request its return.

If an issue escalates, the official body to hear tenant-landlord disputes in Wyoming is the Wyoming District Court in your county, as Wyoming does not have a separate landlord-tenant tribunal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can landlords charge unlimited pet rent or pet fees in Wyoming?
   Yes. There are no state-imposed caps, but all terms must be disclosed in your lease.
2. Are pet deposits refundable in Wyoming?
   Generally yes, if your pet does not cause excessive damage. Make sure it’s clearly listed as a “deposit” (refundable) and not as a “fee” (nonrefundable).
3. Do emotional support or service animals count as pets for extra rental charges?
   No. Service animals and emotional support animals are not subject to pet rent or fees under state and federal law.
4. What can I do if my landlord refuses to return my pet deposit?
   Send a written demand letter first. If unresolved, you may seek help from Wyoming’s District Court or Legal Aid of Wyoming.
5. Is a verbal pet agreement enforceable?
   Verbal agreements can be difficult to prove. Always ask for a written addendum to your lease for any agreement about pets or fees.

Conclusion: What Wyoming Renters Should Remember

• Wyoming landlords can legally charge pet rent, deposits, and fees—with no statewide cap—unless your lease sets restrictions.
• Service animals and emotional support animals are never subject to additional fees or rent.
• Always read your lease carefully and keep documentation about your pet arrangement in writing.

Knowing these facts can help you avoid surprises and resolve any rental pet issues with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Legal Aid of Wyoming - Landlord/Tenant Help: Free information and sample forms, including security deposit letter templates.
• Wyoming Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit: For filing rental-related complaints.
• Wyoming District Court: Handles landlord-tenant disputes.
• Read the full Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act for your rights and responsibilities.

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1. Wyoming Statutes Annotated §§ 1-21-1201 through 1-21-1216 (Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act).
2. U.S. Department of Justice, Fair Housing Act - Service Animals and Assistance Animals.
3. Legal Aid of Wyoming, Landlord/Tenant Help (Security Deposit Demand Letter Example).
4. Wyoming Attorney General, Consumer Protection Unit.
5. Wyoming Judiciary, District Courts.

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