Nonrefundable means disclosed twice
Wyoming sets no cap. Any rental agreement must state whether any part of the deposit is nonrefundable, and the landlord must also give you written notice of that when it takes the deposit (W.S. 1-21-1207).
Deductions and the deadline
When the agreement ends, the landlord may apply the deposit to accrued rent, damage beyond reasonable wear and tear, cleaning to restore the unit's move-in condition, and other costs provided by contract. The balance of the deposit and any prepaid rent, with a written itemization of deductions and reasons, must be delivered or mailed without interest within 30 days after termination or within 15 days after the landlord receives your new mailing address, whichever is later. If there is damage to the unit, the period is extended by 30 days (1-21-1208(a)).
Utility deposits
A separately identified utilities deposit must be refunded within 10 days after you satisfactorily show that all your utility charges are paid. If you have not done so within 45 days, the landlord applies the deposit to your utility debt within the next 15 days and refunds any remainder within 7 days, or within 15 days after receiving your new address, whichever is later (1-21-1208(b)).
Remedy
If the landlord unreasonably fails to comply, you may recover the full deposit and court costs. If the landlord wins and the court finds you acted unreasonably in suing, the landlord may be awarded court costs (1-21-1208(c)). A new owner is bound by these rules (1-21-1209). Our calculator counts 30 days.
Steps to recover a Wyoming deposit
- Check the lease for any nonrefundable portion.
- Send your new address in writing within 30 days.
- Show proof of paid utility bills to release any utility deposit.
- After the deadline (plus 30 days if damage is claimed), demand the full deposit.
- If that fails, file a claim in small claims court.
Neighboring states
Colorado caps deposits at two months and allows treble damages. Utah has the $100 penalty, and Idaho, Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska each have their own deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cap on security deposits in Wyoming?
No. W.S. 1-21-1207 and -1208 set no maximum.
How long does a Wyoming landlord have to return a deposit?
30 days after termination or 15 days after receiving your new address, whichever is later, plus 30 days if there is damage.
Can part of a Wyoming deposit be nonrefundable?
Yes, if the lease says so and you got written notice when you paid.
What is the penalty in Wyoming?
If the landlord unreasonably fails to comply, you recover the full deposit and court costs.
Sources
Last reviewed Oct 17, 2026. Read how we verify. Found an error? Tell us.