Find Wyoming Public Records

Is Wyoming a Public Records State?

Yes. Most government records generated in Wyoming are accessible to the public under the Wyoming Public Records Act. This act allows any individual to request a public data search from a local or state government agency. In certain cases, individuals may perform a free public data search through these official channels.

The act defines public records as any information created, obtained, or accepted by a governmental entity during public business transactions. The method of transmission or the exchange location does not affect the record's public status. Public records in Wyoming include inmate records, property records, bankruptcy records, death records, and sex offender information.

What is Public Information in Wyoming?

The Wyoming Public Records Act categorizes public records into two main types:

Official Public Records

Per WY Stat § 16-4-201(a)(vi)(A), official public records include all documents necessary to validate transactions involving public funds or property. These records encompass receipts, original vouchers, claims against a government entity, agreements, contracts, and any records maintained by a Wyoming public agency as required by law. This category also includes documents deemed official public records by the State Records Committee.

Office Files and Memoranda

According to WY Stat § 16-4-201(a)(vi)(B), office files and memoranda are documents not classified as official public records. These include exhibits, correspondences, drawings, blank forms, booklets, and other internal administrative records. This category also covers documents considered office files and memoranda by the State Records Committee.

Note: The Wyoming Public Records Act does not require custodian agencies to create records upon request. However, WY Stat, § 16-4-202(d)(ii) mandates agencies to provide alternative electronic formats for records primarily or solely in an electronic format unless it is impossible or impracticable.

How Do I Look Up Public Records in Wyoming?

The process to obtain public records in Wyoming may differ based on the record type and custodian. However, general steps must be followed:

Identify the Record Type
Determine the specific type of information needed. For example, to find out if someone is divorced, request Wyoming divorce records.
Locate the Custodian Agency
Identify the Wyoming public agency that maintains the desired records. For instance, to obtain state bankruptcy records, contact the Wyoming Bankruptcy Court. Divorce information can be obtained from the District Court Clerk in the county of divorce or a Wyoming divorce certificate from the Department of Health.
Create a Request
Submit an official request to the custodian agency. Wyoming law requires a written application, although some custodians may accept verbal requests (WY Stat § 16-4-201(a)(ix)). Ensure the application includes the record type, information contained in the record, requester’s details, payment, identification if needed, and preferred delivery method.
Submit the Request
Submit the request according to the agency's preferred method, which may include in-person, mail, fax, phone, or online submissions. Note that processing times may vary, with mail requests often taking longer.

Utilizing Third-Party Resources for Wyoming Public Records Obtaining

City Records

Public city records can be accessed through third-party websites. These platforms offer intuitive tools for expansive searches. Users must provide sufficient information, such as:

The name of the subject (must be over 18 or not a juvenile)
The requestor's address
Case or file number, if known
Document or person's location
Last known or current address of the registrant

Third-party sites are not government-sponsored, and record availability may vary.

Public Records

Third-party websites also provide access to public records. These platforms offer non-geographically limited search services, making the process straightforward. Users need to provide:

The subject's name (not a juvenile)
Last known location of the record subject

Since third-party sites are not government-sponsored, the availability and accuracy of results can vary.

How To Look Up Public Records in Wyoming for Free?

Free public records searches in Wyoming may be limited. The Wyoming Public Records Act prohibits request fees as a condition for access but allows custodian agencies to set reasonable fees. Physical copies usually incur costs, which vary by record type and volume.

Some Wyoming agencies offer free access to online databases with uncertified records. For example, the Wyoming Offender Locator provides free information on inmates in the Wyoming Department of Corrections custody. County records may also be accessed for free through databases maintained by county clerk/recorder offices.

Requesters may also inspect records in person at no charge, depending on the agency's policies.

Search Public Records in Wyoming

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