Wyoming Fair Housing: Protected Classes for Renters

Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Wyoming published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Wyoming

Understanding your rights as a renter in Wyoming is key to protecting yourself from unfair treatment. State and federal laws outline specific groups—called "protected classes"—that are legally protected from housing discrimination. This guide explains these protections and shows you how to take action if you believe your fair housing rights have been violated.

What Are Protected Classes?

Protected classes are characteristics that cannot be used as reasons to deny you housing or treat you unfairly. In Wyoming, both federal and state laws set these protections for renters and home seekers.

Protected Classes Under Federal and Wyoming Law

The federal Fair Housing Act protects these classes nationwide:

  • Race
  • Color
  • National origin
  • Religion
  • Sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity)
  • Familial status (having children under 18 in the household, pregnancy, or plans for custody)
  • Disability

Wyoming does not provide additional protected classes beyond the federal list. There are also no statewide protections for age, marital status, or source of income (like rental vouchers) in housing discrimination, though local ordinances in some cities may exist.

Examples of Housing Discrimination

  • A landlord refuses to rent to you because you have children.
  • You are offered different rental terms because of your religion.
  • Your application is denied based on your national origin or ethnicity.
  • Reasonable accommodations are refused for a disability.

Your Rights as a Wyoming Renter

It is illegal for landlords, property managers, or real estate agents to:

  • Refuse to rent, sell, or negotiate housing based on a protected characteristic
  • Set different terms, conditions, or privileges
  • Deny reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities
  • Advertise housing in a discriminatory way
If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly in any housing transaction, you have the right to file a complaint.
Ad

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

While Wyoming does not have its own fair housing enforcement agency, renters can file discrimination complaints with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD investigates housing discrimination under the federal Fair Housing Act.

Relevant Official Form: HUD Housing Discrimination Complaint Form

Once filed, HUD may investigate and attempt to resolve your complaint. You may also be eligible for assistance from HUD’s Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) office.

Wyoming Tribunal or Board

Wyoming does not have a state-level fair housing enforcement tribunal. All complaints are handled by HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

Relevant Legislation for Wyoming Renters

The main laws protecting renters against discrimination are:

Note: The Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act covers basic landlord-tenant relationship rules but does not expand on discrimination protections beyond federal law.[1][2]

FAQ: Protected Classes and Fair Housing in Wyoming

  1. Which groups are protected under Wyoming's fair housing laws?
    Wyoming protects renters on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability, as outlined by the federal Fair Housing Act.
  2. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I have children?
    No. Denying housing because of familial status—such as having children under 18—is illegal discrimination.
  3. What should I do if I suspect housing discrimination in Wyoming?
    You can file a complaint with HUD using the official complaint form online or by mail.
  4. Does Wyoming protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity?
    Yes. Federal law now includes sexual orientation and gender identity under "sex" for fair housing protection.
  5. Where do I go for help if my rights are violated?
    Contact HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity for help and guidance. Links are in the resource section below.

Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

  • Wyoming applies federal fair housing protections to renters—know your rights before signing a lease or dealing with a housing issue.
  • If you feel discriminated against, HUD provides official forms and a straightforward complaint process to advocate for your rights.
  • There is no state agency for fair housing complaints, but federal protections apply statewide.

Being aware of these rights helps Wyoming renters stand up against unfair treatment and access safe, equitable housing opportunities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. See the full text of the federal Fair Housing Act for detailed protections.
  2. Review the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act for general tenancy rules.

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

Related Articles