Wyoming Subletting Laws: Rules and Permissions for Renters

If you’re renting in Wyoming and considering letting someone else live in your place while you’re away, you’re probably wondering if subletting is legal in your state. Wyoming law has specific rules that tenants and landlords should follow when it comes to subletting. This article explains the basics of subletting in Wyoming, including your rights, landlord approval, required forms, and helpful resources for renters.

Understanding Subletting in Wyoming

Subletting, or subleasing, is when a renter (the original tenant) allows another person (the subtenant or sublessee) to live in their rental unit for part or all of the remaining lease term. Subletting can provide flexibility, but there are important legal and contractual considerations specific to Wyoming.

Is Subletting Allowed in Wyoming?

Wyoming does not have a specific statewide law that automatically allows or prohibits subletting. The right to sublet generally depends on your lease agreement:

• Check Your Lease: Most Wyoming lease agreements mention whether subletting is permitted. Some leases ban subletting entirely, while others may allow it if you follow certain steps.
• Landlord Permission: If your lease is silent or unclear, it is safest to ask your landlord in writing for permission. Landlords in Wyoming have the right to approve or deny a sublet based on reasonable business grounds.

Requirements and Steps for Subletting

• Read your lease carefully for any rules on subletting.
• Obtain your landlord’s written consent, even if your lease is silent on the issue.
• If allowed, complete a written sublease agreement that clearly outlines the responsibilities of all parties.
• Submit any required notices or forms to your landlord before proceeding.

If you sublet without your landlord’s consent when it’s required, you risk eviction or other legal issues under your original lease.

Official Forms for Subletting in Wyoming

Wyoming does not provide a statewide official sublet form. However, you can create a written sublease agreement that covers the names of all parties, the address, the term of the sublet, rent amount, and rules.

• Example: If your lease requires landlord approval, you might draft a Request to Sublet Form (no official number). Send it to your landlord by certified mail or email for written approval.
• After your landlord consents, complete a sublease contract and have all parties sign it.

Reference: For guidance, see the Wyoming State Bar's public resources.

Tribunal or Board Handling Tenancy Issues

Wyoming does not have a statewide landlord-tenant tribunal or board. Disputes about subletting and lease issues are handled through the Wyoming State Court System (often at the circuit or small claims court level).

Wyoming Tenant and Landlord Laws

Wyoming’s main rental law is the Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (WY Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211).¹ This legislation governs landlord and tenant responsibilities, repairs, notices, and evictions. It does not specifically address subletting, so lease terms and written agreements are very important.

FAQ

1. Can my landlord refuse my subletting request in Wyoming?
   If your lease prohibits subletting, your landlord can deny the request. If it allows subletting with approval, landlords can generally only deny for reasonable business reasons, such as credit issues with the proposed subtenant.
2. What happens if I sublet without landlord permission?
   You could be in breach of your lease, which may lead to eviction or other penalties under Wyoming law and your lease contract.
3. Do I need to use a special form to sublet in Wyoming?
   There is no statewide mandatory form, but a clear written sublease agreement and a written request to your landlord are strongly recommended.
4. Who is responsible if the subtenant causes damage?
   The original tenant (you) is still responsible for the property and the lease terms, even if someone else is living there as a subtenant.
5. Where do I go if there is a dispute over subletting?
   Subletting disputes are typically resolved by filing a claim with your local circuit or small claims court in Wyoming.

Conclusion: What Wyoming Renters Should Know

• Subletting is not automatically permitted in Wyoming; your lease decides, and landlord consent is usually required.
• Get all permissions and agreements in writing to protect yourself.
• Consult Wyoming’s landlord-tenant law and the courts if disagreements occur.

Knowing the rules about subletting can help you avoid legal headaches and protect your rights in Wyoming.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming State Court System – For filing disputes and small claims involving rental issues
• Wyoming State Bar – Public Resources – Find legal information and lawyer referrals
• Wyoming Department of Health – Rental Housing Resources
• For legal emergencies, contact local legal aid or visit the court in your county

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1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (WY Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211)

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