Can my landlord install a smart lock without my permission?

Landlords may upgrade to smart locks, but they must provide reasonable notice and ensure your access and privacy are not unreasonably affected.

Does my landlord have to give notice before unlocking my rental with a smart lock?

Yes, your landlord is required to give reasonable notice—typically 24 hours—before any entry, including remote unlocking via smart lock.

Who can view the information collected by my rental's smart lock?

Usually your landlord and possibly the smart lock service provider; your lease should clarify who can access this data.

What if my privacy is violated due to a smart lock?

Document incidents, communicate with your landlord, and if necessary, file a formal complaint using Form CIV-1 with the local court.

Wyoming Renters: Smart Locks and Your Privacy Rights

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Wyoming published June 21, 2025

Smart locks are becoming more common in Wyoming rental homes, bringing new questions about renter privacy and landlord access. As a Wyoming renter, it’s important to understand how your rights are impacted by technology in your rental unit, what your landlord can—and cannot—do regarding smart locks, and how state law protects your privacy.

What Are Smart Locks, and Why Do They Matter for Renters?

Smart locks are digital devices controlled via smartphone, keypad, or remote key fobs instead of a traditional metal key. Landlords may install smart locks for convenience or added security. However, these locks can raise privacy concerns because they record access data and allow remote control of entry, which can impact your right to quiet enjoyment and privacy under Wyoming law.

Wyoming Laws on Landlord Entry and Tenant Privacy

Wyoming law does not have a separate statute dedicated solely to smart locks. However, tenant privacy and landlord entry are protected under the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act^[1] and related provisions in Wyoming Statute § 1-21-1202. These rules generally apply regardless of whether an entry system uses a traditional or electronic lock.

Entry Notice: Landlords usually must provide reasonable notice—typically 24 hours—before entering your unit, unless there’s an emergency.
Right to Access: Landlords may enter for repairs, inspections, or to show the property to new renters, but must do so reasonably and respectfully.
Tenant Rights: You are entitled to reasonable privacy and to use the home undisturbed, whether locks are smart or traditional.

Even with a smart lock, your landlord must follow these established entry laws. It is important your landlord does not remotely unlock or monitor your apartment without proper notice and a lawful reason.

Privacy Concerns: Smart Locks and Your Data

Smart locks can track when doors are locked or unlocked and by whom. In most cases, rental agreements should outline who can access this data. As a renter, you are encouraged to ask your landlord:

Who has access to my lock data?
Will I get advance notice if remote access is used?
Can I receive a copy of the access log?

Tip: If you feel your privacy is at risk due to smart lock installation or data sharing, you may request in writing that your landlord clarify or modify the terms related to access and monitoring.

Official Forms for Privacy Complaints or Disputes

If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice or misuses smart lock data, you may document the issue and consider taking action. Wyoming does not have a state-specific tenant complaint form, but you may use the following approach:

Wyoming Civil Complaint (Form CIV-1): Used if you wish to formally file a case in county court related to violation of privacy or wrongful entry.

Example: If your landlord enters your home using a smart lock without notice, causing repeated privacy disturbances, you may submit Form CIV-1 – Complaint to your County Clerk of Court. This form should detail the dates and incidents in question. Visit the official Wyoming Judicial Branch Civil Forms page for more details.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Wyoming?

Residential tenancy disputes in Wyoming are generally handled by county Circuit Courts or the Wyoming Judicial Branch. There is no separate landlord-tenant tribunal, but you can file small claims or civil actions for unresolved disputes.

Relevant Legislation

Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act governs landlord-tenant relationships, including privacy and entry requirements.^[1]
Wyoming Statute § 1-21-1202 covers wrongful entry or exclusion.

In summary, state laws protect your right to privacy. If you believe your smart lock data or entry rights are being misused, it’s important to gather documentation and seek clarification from your landlord as a first step. Legal remedies are available if your concerns are not addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord install a smart lock without my permission?
Landlords can upgrade security hardware, including smart locks, but the change should not unreasonably interfere with your access or privacy. Reasonable notice of installation and providing you with access is required.
Does my landlord have to give me notice before remotely unlocking my unit with a smart lock?
Yes, landlords must give reasonable advance notice, typically at least 24 hours, except in emergencies, even if they use a smart lock to enter.
Who has access to the data recorded by a smart lock in my rental?
Usually, both the landlord and potentially the lock provider have access, but your lease should clarify this. You have the right to ask for transparency about who can see entry logs and when.
What should I do if I think my privacy has been violated because of a smart lock?
Begin by communicating your concerns in writing to your landlord and documenting all incidents. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the county circuit court using the Wyoming Civil Complaint Form.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Wyoming Renters

Your right to privacy applies whether you use a smart lock or a traditional key. Landlords must give notice before entry.
Smart lock data should be managed transparently. Ask your landlord about data access and entry logs.
If privacy concerns arise, document incidents and use Wyoming’s official court forms to seek help if necessary.

Understanding your rights helps you maintain security and privacy in your Wyoming home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Wyoming Judicial Branch – State-wide court system for rental disputes and tenant complaints.
Wyoming Civil Forms – Includes Form CIV-1 for filing complaints.
Wyoming State Bar Lawyer Referral Service – Offers access to legal advice on rental issues.
Wyoming Tenant Resources – Assistance and information for renters (including outreach and support links).

Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act, Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211