Adverse Possession in Wyoming
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Wyoming requires 10 years of open, continuous possession plus payment of property taxes for adverse possession.
How Wyoming treats Adverse Possession
Wyoming requires a 10-year period of actual, open, notorious, exclusive, and hostile possession combined with payment of property taxes during that time. The tax payment requirement is a statutory element that must be satisfied alongside the possession requirements. Wyoming courts recognize that adverse possession serves to quiet title and prevent stale claims, but require strict compliance with all statutory elements. The claimant must demonstrate a good-faith belief of ownership or act with knowledge of trespassing.
The general definition of Adverse Possession
Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
If someone uses another person's land openly, without permission, and continuously for many years (typically 7–21 years depending on the state), they may eventually become the legal owner. The original owner must not have stopped them during that time. This doctrine rewards people who improve and maintain land while punishing owners who abandon or ignore their property.
Read the full Adverse Possession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Wyoming.