Wyoming Fair Housing: Reasonable Occupancy Standards Explained

If you are renting a home or apartment in Wyoming and have a growing family or roommates, you may wonder how many people can legally live in a rental unit. Understanding reasonable occupancy standards under Wyoming's fair housing laws is key for protecting your rights while keeping open communication with your landlord.

What Are Reasonable Occupancy Standards in Wyoming?

Reasonable occupancy standards refer to the guidelines that determine how many people may live in a particular rental unit. These standards are in place for health, safety, and to help prevent discrimination against families—especially those with children.

Under the federal Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants because of familial status, which includes households with children under age 18. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) suggests a general guideline of two persons per bedroom, known as the "two plus one" rule.^[1]

How This Applies in Wyoming

Wyoming follows federal guidelines, as the state does not have a separate fair housing agency. This means landlords in Wyoming should generally use the "two people per bedroom" standard unless local building codes or health and safety regulations require otherwise. However, unique situations—like unusually large bedrooms or circumstances—may justify different occupancy limits.

• Landlords cannot set occupancy limits specifically to exclude families with children.
• Reasonable standards must not violate tenant protections outlined in the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act.^[2]
• Health and safety rules may sometimes override the two-person-per-bedroom rule (e.g., if a septic system limits total occupancy).

When Occupancy Standards Become Discriminatory

Setting lower occupancy limits with the intent to deter or exclude families—especially those with children—is considered discriminatory under the Fair Housing Act. For example, a landlord may not refuse to rent a two-bedroom apartment to a couple with two children based on their "policy" of one person per bedroom.

If you believe you've been denied housing, been threatened with eviction, or faced different rules because of your family size, you may have grounds for a discrimination complaint.

What To Do If You Experience Occupancy-Based Discrimination

Tenants have clear options to address occupancy-related discrimination. You can file a fair housing complaint with HUD or reach out for mediation or legal help through Wyoming resources.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint

• HUD Form 903 (Housing Discrimination Complaint Form): Use this form to report possible violations of the Fair Housing Act. Example: If a landlord refuses your rental application due to "too many kids for the unit," you can submit this form to HUD.

• How to Use: Complete the form online or print and mail, following instructions on HUD's complaint portal. Provide specific details about your situation.

Which Agency or Tribunal Handles Tenant Complaints?

Wyoming does not have a dedicated state housing board. Instead, renters may contact:

• HUD's Wyoming Office
• Local fair housing organizations, or legal aid services if additional help is needed

For issues related specifically to lease enforcement, refer to the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act.

Key Points for Renters to Remember

• Federal law protects familial status. Landlords can't exclude families with children by setting arbitrary occupancy rules.
• Document your communication and gather details if you believe you're being treated unfairly due to family size.
• File a complaint with HUD if necessary. Free support is available to guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions: Wyoming Occupancy Standards

1. How many people can live in a rental unit in Wyoming? Most landlords use a guideline of two people per bedroom, but exceptions may apply if the unit is larger or local health codes require different standards.
2. Can a landlord refuse to rent to families with children in Wyoming? No, this is not allowed. The Fair Housing Act protects families with children from such discrimination.
3. What if my landlord creates different rules for families with children? This could be illegal discrimination. You can file a complaint with HUD using Form 903.
4. Where do I report fair housing violations in Wyoming? You should file a complaint directly with the HUD office serving Wyoming.
5. Does Wyoming have its own fair housing board? No, HUD handles fair housing complaints for Wyoming.

Conclusion: Know Your Rights and Take Action

• Occupancy limits in Wyoming rentals should be reasonable and non-discriminatory.
• Familial status is protected by law—know how to file a complaint if needed.
• Access official forms and guidance through HUD or state resources to resolve disputes.

Understanding these protections ensures you are equipped to live comfortably and safely, regardless of your household's size or composition.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD: Wyoming Fair Housing Resources – information, complaint forms, and contact details
• Wyoming Legal Aid – free or low-cost tenant legal guidance
• Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Full Text)

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1. HUD, Fair Housing Act Guidance and Occupancy Standards, Keating Memo
2. Wyoming Legislature, Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act, Title 1, Chapter 21

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