Your Comprehensive Guide to Wyoming Public Records
Wyoming Public Records
Wyoming public records are documents, files, and information created, maintained, or received by government agencies in the course of their official business. These records serve as a vital resource for citizens seeking transparency and accountability in government operations. Wyoming, like other states, has established laws and procedures to govern access to these records, ensuring that the public's right to information is balanced with privacy concerns and governmental efficiency.
Public records in Wyoming encompass a wide range of documents, from vital records such as birth and death certificates to property records, court documents, and agency reports. These records are maintained by various state and local government entities, each responsible for specific categories of information.
The Wyoming Public Records Act (W.S. § 16-4-201 through 16-4-205) establishes the framework for public access to government records in the state. This legislation aims to promote transparency while protecting sensitive information from inappropriate disclosure.
Are Wyoming Records Public?
Yes, most records created or maintained by Wyoming government agencies are considered public under the Wyoming Public Records Act. The law establishes a presumption of openness, stating that all public records "shall be open for inspection by any person at reasonable times" (W.S. § 16-4-202(a)).
However, this presumption of openness is not absolute. The Wyoming Public Records Act includes specific exemptions for certain types of records that are deemed confidential or sensitive. These exemptions are designed to protect personal privacy, ongoing investigations, and other legitimate governmental interests.
It's important to note that even when a record contains some confidential information, Wyoming agencies are generally required to redact only the protected portions and release the remainder of the document. This approach reflects the state's commitment to maximum disclosure while respecting necessary confidentiality.
What Information Is Included in Wyoming Public Records?
Wyoming public records encompass a broad spectrum of information created, maintained, or received by government agencies. These include:
- Vital Records: Birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees
- Property Records: Deeds, mortgages, liens, property tax assessments, and land records
- Court Records: Case files, dockets, judgments, and court orders from all levels of the Wyoming court system
- Criminal Records: Arrest records, conviction information, and sex offender registry data
- Business Records: Corporate filings, business licenses, and professional licenses
- Government Operations: Meeting minutes, budgets, expenditure reports, and policy documents
- Voter Registration: Voter rolls and election results
- Motor Vehicle Records: Vehicle registrations and driver's license information (with restrictions)
- Environmental Records: Permits, inspections, and compliance reports
- Education Records: School performance data and administrative records (not individual student records)
Each category of records is maintained by specific government agencies at the state or local level, with varying procedures for access and retrieval.
What Does the Wyoming Public Records Law Do?
The Wyoming Public Records Act (W.S. § 16-4-201 through 16-4-205) establishes the legal framework for public access to government records in Wyoming. This law serves several important functions:
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Establishes a Right of Access: The law affirms that all public records shall be open for inspection by any person at reasonable times, except as otherwise provided by law.
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Defines Public Records: The act defines public records as "any information in a physical form created, accepted, or obtained by the state or any agency, institution or political subdivision of the state in furtherance of its official function and transaction of public business" (W.S. § 16-4-201(a)(v)).
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Outlines Exemptions: The law specifies categories of records that are exempt from disclosure, including certain personnel records, medical information, ongoing investigation records, and other sensitive information.
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Sets Procedures: The act establishes procedures for requesting records, timeframes for agency responses, and reasonable fees that may be charged for record production.
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Creates Appeal Mechanisms: The law provides avenues for appealing denied requests, including judicial review.
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Balances Interests: Throughout its provisions, the Wyoming Public Records Act seeks to balance the public's right to information with individual privacy rights and the government's need for efficient operations.
The Wyoming Supreme Court has consistently interpreted the Public Records Act broadly in favor of disclosure, reinforcing the state's commitment to governmental transparency.
How To Find Public Records in Wyoming in 2025
Accessing public records in Wyoming involves identifying the appropriate custodial agency and following their specific request procedures. Here's a step-by-step guide for finding public records in Wyoming in 2025:
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Identify the Custodial Agency: Determine which government agency maintains the records you seek. Different types of records are held by different agencies at the state or local level.
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Check Online Resources: Many Wyoming agencies now provide digital access to commonly requested records through their websites. The Wyoming State Archives and Wyoming Secretary of State offer online databases for certain historical and business records.
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Submit a Written Request: For records not available online, submit a written request to the appropriate agency. While Wyoming law does not require requests to be in writing, doing so creates a record of your request and helps ensure clarity.
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Be Specific: Clearly identify the records you seek, including relevant dates, names, and file numbers if available. Vague requests may result in delays or denials.
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Follow Up: If you don't receive a response within a reasonable time (typically 7-10 business days), follow up with the agency. Wyoming law does not specify a mandatory response time, but agencies are expected to respond promptly.
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Pay Required Fees: Be prepared to pay reasonable fees for copying or processing your request. Many agencies accept credit card payments, while others require checks or money orders.
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Consider In-Person Visits: For urgent requests or assistance with complex searches, consider visiting the agency's public counter during business hours.
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Use the Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman: If you encounter difficulties, the Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman can provide guidance and mediation services.
Does Wyoming Have Free Public Records?
Wyoming law allows government agencies to charge reasonable fees for providing public records, but some records may be available at no cost. The fee structure varies depending on the type of record and the custodial agency.
Free access options include:
- In-person inspection: Wyoming law allows individuals to inspect public records at no charge during normal business hours.
- Online databases: Many agencies provide free access to digital records through their websites.
- Fee waivers: Some agencies may waive fees when the request serves the public interest or for individuals demonstrating financial hardship.
However, most agencies charge for:
- Copies of documents (physical or digital)
- Staff time for extensive searches or redactions
- Special formatting or delivery methods
The Wyoming Public Records Act states that fees must be reasonable and primarily designed to recover actual costs, not to generate revenue or discourage requests.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Public Records in Wyoming?
The cost of obtaining public records in Wyoming varies by agency and the nature of the request. Wyoming law allows agencies to charge "reasonable" fees that reflect the actual cost of production. Typical fee structures include:
- Photocopies: $0.10 to $0.50 per page
- Digital copies: Often provided at reduced rates or no charge for email delivery
- Staff time: Some agencies charge for staff time when requests require more than minimal processing (typically $15-$40 per hour)
- Specialized records: Vital records, background checks, and certain certified documents have standardized fees set by statute
Examples of specific fees:
- Birth certificates: $25 (Wyoming Vital Records Services)
- Criminal history check: $15 (Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation)
- Business entity records: $10-$25 (Secretary of State)
- Court records: $1-$5 per page (Wyoming Judicial Branch)
Agencies must provide fee schedules upon request, and many publish their fee structures online. If you believe the fees charged are unreasonable, you may challenge them through the agency's appeal process or seek assistance from the Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman.
How Long Does It Take to Obtain Public Records in Wyoming?
Wyoming law does not specify a mandatory timeframe for agencies to respond to public records requests. Instead, the Wyoming Public Records Act requires that records be made available for inspection "at reasonable times" and that agencies respond to requests "promptly."
In practice, response times vary based on:
- The complexity and scope of the request
- The volume of records requested
- Whether redactions are necessary
- The agency's current workload and staffing
- Whether third-party notification is required
Typical response timeframes:
- Simple, readily available records: 1-5 business days
- Moderately complex requests: 7-14 business days
- Extensive or complex requests: 2-4 weeks or longer
Agencies should provide an estimated timeframe when acknowledging receipt of your request. If a request will take an extended period to fulfill, agencies often provide records on a rolling basis as they become available.
To minimize delays, submit clear, specific requests and be responsive to any clarification questions from the agency.
What Records Are Confidential In Wyoming?
While Wyoming law favors transparency, certain records are exempt from public disclosure under the Wyoming Public Records Act and other statutes. These exemptions include:
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Personal Privacy Information:
- Medical and health records
- Personnel files (except basic employment information)
- Social Security numbers and financial account information
- Individual student records (protected by FERPA)
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Law Enforcement and Investigative Records:
- Active criminal investigation records
- Information that would interfere with law enforcement proceedings
- Records that would deprive a person of a fair trial
- Confidential informant identities
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Security and Safety Information:
- Critical infrastructure details
- Security procedures and protocols
- Emergency response plans
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Proprietary Business Information:
- Trade secrets submitted to government agencies
- Confidential commercial or financial information
- Certain economic development negotiations
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Deliberative Process Materials:
- Preliminary drafts and notes
- Interagency or intra-agency memoranda reflecting opinions or recommendations
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Other Protected Records:
- Attorney-client privileged communications
- Certain adoption records
- Juvenile court records (with exceptions)
- Archaeological site locations
- Certain library patron records
Wyoming agencies must cite the specific statutory basis for any denial of access to public records. Even when records contain confidential information, agencies are generally required to redact only the protected portions and release the remainder of the document.
Who Has the Right To Request Public Records in Wyoming
Under the Wyoming Public Records Act, "any person" has the right to inspect and copy public records. This broad definition includes:
- Wyoming residents
- Out-of-state residents
- Foreign nationals
- Media organizations
- Businesses and corporations
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
- Incarcerated individuals (though some practical limitations may apply)
The law does not require requesters to:
- Provide identification
- State the purpose of their request
- Be a Wyoming resident
- Use a specific form or format
However, agencies may ask for contact information to communicate about the request and arrange for delivery of records. Some specialized records (such as vital records) may have more restrictive access requirements established by separate statutes.
The Wyoming Supreme Court has consistently upheld the principle that the requester's identity or purpose should not affect their right to access public records, except in very limited circumstances where specific statutory exemptions apply.
What Can Be Done With Public Records in Wyoming
Once obtained, public records from Wyoming government agencies can be used for various legitimate purposes, including:
- Research and Education: Academic studies, historical research, and educational projects
- Business Activities: Market research, property development, competitive analysis, and due diligence
- Legal Proceedings: Evidence gathering, case preparation, and background research
- Journalism and Media: Investigative reporting, fact-checking, and public interest stories
- Government Accountability: Monitoring public spending, policy implementation, and official actions
- Personal Matters: Family history research, property transactions, and verification of personal information
While public records are generally available for unrestricted use, certain considerations apply:
- Copyright Protection: Some government-created materials may be subject to copyright protection, limiting reproduction or commercial use
- Privacy Concerns: Even though records are public, ethical use should respect privacy interests
- Secondary Dissemination: While republishing public records is generally permitted, some specialized records (like certain criminal history information) may have statutory restrictions on commercial redistribution
- Data Compilation: Compiling information from multiple public records for commercial purposes may be subject to additional regulations in some contexts
Wyoming law generally does not restrict the subsequent use of properly obtained public records, but other state and federal laws regarding privacy, defamation, and fair information practices may still apply.
Key Agencies and Departments for Public Records in Wyoming
Wyoming Secretary of State
2020 Carey Avenue, Suite 600
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7311
Wyoming Secretary of State
Wyoming Department of Transportation
5300 Bishop Boulevard
Cheyenne, WY 82009
(307) 777-4375
Wyoming Department of Transportation
Wyoming Department of Health - Vital Statistics Services
2300 Capitol Avenue
Hathaway Building, 1st Floor
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7591
Wyoming Vital Records Services
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation
208 South College Drive
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7181
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation
Wyoming Supreme Court
2301 Capitol Avenue
Supreme Court Building
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7316
Wyoming Judicial Branch
Wyoming State Archives
Barrett Building
2301 Central Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7826
Wyoming State Archives
Wyoming State Library
2800 Central Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-6333
Wyoming State Library
Wyoming Business Council
214 West 15th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-2800
Wyoming Business Council
Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
1510 East Pershing Boulevard
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-8650
Wyoming Department of Workforce Services
Wyoming Department of Education
122 West 25th Street, Suite E200
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7675
Wyoming Department of Education
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality
200 West 17th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7937
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality
Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments
122 West 25th Street, 3rd Floor West
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7331
Wyoming Office of State Lands and Investments
Wyoming Department of Revenue
122 West 25th Street, 2nd Floor West
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7961
Wyoming Department of Revenue
Wyoming Legislature
200 West 24th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7881
Wyoming Legislature
Wyoming Attorney General's Office
Kendrick Building
2320 Capitol Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7841
Wyoming Attorney General
Wyoming Community Development Authority
155 North Beech Street
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 265-0603
Wyoming Community Development Authority
City of Cheyenne Clerk's Office
2101 O'Neil Avenue, Room 101
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 637-6346
City of Cheyenne
How to Appeal a Denied Public Records Request in Wyoming
If your request for public records in Wyoming is denied, you have several options for appeal:
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Informal Resolution: Contact the agency's records officer or public information officer to discuss the denial. Sometimes, denials result from misunderstandings that can be resolved through clarification.
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Administrative Appeal: Many Wyoming agencies have internal appeal procedures. Request information about the agency's appeal process and submit a written appeal to the designated official, typically within 30 days of the denial.
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Contact the Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman: The Wyoming Public Records Ombudsman can provide mediation services between requesters and agencies. While the Ombudsman cannot override an agency's decision, they can facilitate communication and resolution.
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Judicial Review: Under W.S. § 16-4-203(f), you may file a petition in the district court of the county where the record is kept. The court can order the production of improperly withheld records and award attorney fees if it determines the agency acted arbitrarily or capriciously.
When appealing a denial, consider these best practices:
- Request a written explanation citing the specific statutory exemption for the denial
- Narrow your request if breadth was cited as an issue
- Offer to accept redacted versions of records if privacy concerns were cited
- Document all communications with the agency
- Be prepared to explain why the public interest in disclosure outweighs the reasons for withholding
The deadline for filing a judicial appeal is not specified in the Wyoming Public Records Act, but general principles of administrative law suggest acting within a reasonable time, typically within 30-90 days of the final agency decision.
Difference Between Federal and Wyoming Public Records
Jurisdiction The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. § 552, applies solely to federal executive branch agencies such as the U.S. Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and the Environmental Protection Agency. It does not apply to records maintained by state or local governments. In Wyoming, public records access is governed by the Wyoming Public Records Act, codified at Wyo. Stat. §§ 16-4-201 through 16-4-205. This law applies to all state agencies, county and municipal governments, school districts, and other political subdivisions within Wyoming.
Exemptions FOIA has nine exemptions that permit federal agencies to withhold records in certain circumstances, including:
- Classified national security or foreign policy materials
- Internal agency personnel rules and practices
- Trade secrets and confidential business information
- Law enforcement records where disclosure would interfere with investigations or invade personal privacy
- Pre-decisional and privileged inter-agency communications
Wyoming’s Public Records Act contains its own statutory exemptions, which include:
- Records considered confidential by federal law or other state statutes
- Trade secrets, privileged commercial and financial information
- Personal identifying information in personnel files where disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy
- Law enforcement investigatory files when release could jeopardize an investigation or safety
- Drafts, notes, and preliminary working documents not intended for public release
Right to Request Under FOIA, any person—regardless of residency or citizenship—may request federal agency records. Wyoming law also allows any person to request state or local public records. There is no residency requirement, making it open to both Wyoming residents and non-residents.
Response Timelines FOIA requires a written response within 20 business days, excluding weekends and federal holidays, with possible extensions for unusual circumstances. Under Wyoming law, custodians must respond to public records requests within 30 calendar days of receiving the request, unless otherwise provided by statute (Wyo. Stat. § 16-4-202).
Appeals and Enforcement FOIA provides for an administrative appeal within the agency, followed by the right to file a lawsuit in U.S. District Court if the denial is upheld. Wyoming law allows a requester to seek judicial review in district court if they believe records were unlawfully withheld. Courts can compel disclosure and award costs and fees to the requester in certain cases.
Fees Under FOIA, agencies may charge reasonable fees for search, duplication, and review, but waivers are available for requests that serve the public interest. Wyoming agencies may charge only the reasonable costs of producing copies of public records, including staff time spent retrieving and preparing the records, as outlined in Wyo. Stat. § 16-4-204.
Penalties for Non-Compliance FOIA does not impose direct criminal penalties on federal employees, but courts can order disclosure and award attorney’s fees. Wyoming’s Public Records Act also does not impose criminal penalties for non-compliance; however, a court may order the release of wrongfully withheld records and require the public body to pay reasonable litigation costs and attorney’s fees if the requester prevails.
Legal References
- Federal Law: Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) – 5 U.S.C. § 552
- State Law: Wyoming Public Records Act – Wyo. Stat. §§ 16-4-201 to 16-4-205
- Guidance & Resources: Wyoming Department of Administration & Information – Public Records
- Enforcement Authority: Wyoming District Courts