Gillette is a resource-extraction hub in Campbell County, known as the "Energy Capital of the Nation." Its rental market reflects the boom-and-bust cycles of the coal and oil industries. Wyoming landlord-tenant law (Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 through 1-21-1211) governs all rentals in Gillette. The statutory framework is minimal — there is no implied warranty of habitability in the statutes, and tenant remedies are primarily contract-based.
There is no rent control anywhere in Wyoming, and no local ordinance may impose one. Renters should document move-in conditions, keep all communications in writing, and retain proof of rent payments to protect themselves in any dispute.
Wyoming has no statewide rent control law and prohibits local municipalities from enacting any form of rent stabilization. Gillette landlords may raise rent to any amount with advance notice as required by the lease. There is no cap on rent increases in Wyoming.
If you are on a fixed-term lease, your rent is protected from increases until the lease term ends. Month-to-month tenants should expect at least one rental period's written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
Wyoming landlord-tenant law requires landlords to return security deposits within 30 days after move-out with an itemized statement of any deductions (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208). Wrongful withholding entitles the tenant to double the withheld amount. Landlords must also give proper advance notice before entering a rental unit for non-emergency inspections or repairs.
Although Wyoming has no statutory warranty of habitability, courts recognize common-law obligations to provide rentable premises. File a complaint with Campbell County code enforcement or the City of Gillette's inspection department for serious habitability issues. Self-help eviction — changing locks or cutting utilities to force you out — is prohibited (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1002).
Wyoming law does not cap the amount a landlord may charge as a security deposit. After you vacate, your landlord has 30 days to return your deposit along with an itemized written list of deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1208). If the landlord misses this deadline or withholds your deposit without justification, you may sue for double the withheld amount in Wyoming's circuit court.
At move-in, document the unit's condition with a written checklist and photographs. Send your forwarding address to your landlord in writing when you move out. Keep copies of your lease, rent receipts, and all correspondence.
A landlord in Gillette must serve written notice before filing for eviction. For nonpayment of rent, Wyoming requires a 3-day notice to pay rent or vacate. To terminate a month-to-month tenancy for any reason, written notice equal to one rental period (typically 30 days) is required (Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1203). After notice expires, the landlord files for eviction in Campbell County Circuit Court.
Self-help eviction is illegal under Wyo. Stat. § 1-21-1002. If your landlord removes your belongings, changes the locks, or shuts off utilities without a court order, you may seek an emergency court order and file a civil damages claim.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tenant rights laws change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney or local legal aid organization for advice specific to your situation.
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