Bolthole Index

Albany County, Wyoming

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Albany County, Wyoming

67Index Score / 100
#4 of 23 in Wyoming

Unincorporated Albany County, Wyoming has no county building code, but generally requires a zoning certificate before constructing or placing a building12. Albany County Planning handles zoning approval outside city limits and small-wastewater permits countywide; Laramie sets its own city zoning345.

At a glance

Building permit
No county building-code permit; zoning certificate generally required on unincorporated land12
Zoning
County zoning on unincorporated land; Laramie has its own city zoning35
Septic permit
County wastewater permit required before covered work begins6
Septic installation
Use a licensed installer, or install your own system under county guidance7
RV living
A specific private-land occupancy rule could not be confirmed; ask county Planning8
Floodplain work
Planning application required for excavation or construction in a mapped floodplain9
Well permit
Get Wyoming approval before drilling a groundwater well10
Owner-builder
County application allows self-built homes, but zoning and other approvals still apply11

Who to call

Zoning

Albany County Planning Department

Zoning certificates for new uses, expansions, conditional uses and changes of use in unincorporated Albany County

307-721-2568

1002 S 3rd Street, Laramie, WY 82070

Septic permits

Albany County Planning Department (Water & Wastewater)

Wastewater permits for small wastewater facilities, including septic tanks and leach fields

1002 S 3rd Street, Laramie, WY 82070

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 12, 2026.

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Do you need a building permit in Albany County, Wyoming?

Albany County, Wyoming has no county building code; the applicable county construction approval on unincorporated land is a zoning certificate, rather than a separate building-code permit12. A certificate generally must be obtained before construction, placement, enlargement or a change of use2. Exceptions include accessory buildings of 144 square feet or less, structures onsite no longer than six months, and internal reconstruction that does not change the use2. We could not confirm general structural-inspection or certificate-of-occupancy requirements; ask Albany County Planning what review applies8. The county application allows self-built homes, but owners still submit the zoning application, fee, ownership proof and site plan11.

Who issues building permits in Albany County, and how do you reach them?

Albany County Planning handles zoning certificates for unincorporated projects at 1002 S 3rd Street in Laramie; call 307-721-2568 before beginning work8. Albany County does not issue a separate building-code permit12. The zoning-certificate application requires the form, fee, ownership evidence, site plan, and applicable easements or approach licenses12. Planning reviews zoning applications and wastewater applications, with wastewater construction permission followed by approval before backfill13. Published fees include $750 for a conditional use, $500 for a variance and $400 for floodplain development14. Fees may be revised, and zoning applications can incur a $200 late fee for construction before approval; confirm the current charge for the specific application with Planning15.

Does Albany County have zoning?

Albany County zoning covers unincorporated land, with state and federal lands exempt; Laramie sets its own zoning inside city limits35. Small-wastewater permitting inside Laramie remains with Albany County under Wyoming DEQ delegation, with city-sanitarian inspection; larger systems or systems connected to more than one structure go through DEQ16. Use the county zoning map to identify the parcel’s district before choosing a house site17. Minimum lots are 35 acres in Agricultural, 10 acres in Agricultural Residential, 5 acres in Rural Residential, and 2 acres in Ranchette and Small Lot Residential1819202122. Minimum lot size is not dwelling density: Agricultural Residential allows one principal dwelling per 20 acres, Rural Residential per 10 acres, and Ranchette per 5 acres192021. Setbacks vary by district and use, with wastewater setbacks governed separately23. Neighborhood Business lots must fit water and wastewater systems within setbacks; Industrial lots have a 1-acre minimum2425.

How do septic permits work in Albany County?

Albany County Planning’s Assistant Planner - Environmental administers small-wastewater permits; installing, repairing or modifying a system requires an application, fees payable by cash/check, and plans, specifications or design data426. Obtain the Authorization to Construct letter before construction, and arrange inspection before backfilling6. The completed system cannot be covered or used until inspection and approval27. A licensed installer normally performs the work, although owners may install their own system under county guidance4. Confirm the current septic fee with Planning because published fee entries differ1428. Only 28.9% of Albany County soils are rated without severe limitations for conventional drain fields, so establish site feasibility before buying29. Inside the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone, installation or replacement requires Wyoming-licensed professional engineering, and new systems on lots under 35 acres require qualifying advanced treatment units30.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on land in Albany County?

We could not confirm a private-parcel RV or tiny-home occupancy rule for unincorporated Albany County; ask Planning about the proposed use and district before moving onsite8. County campground standards require a campground conditional-use permit and at least 2 acres, but do not resolve occupancy of an RV on an ordinary private parcel3132. An accessory dwelling is allowed only in districts specified by the land-use table, limited to one per property, and prohibited in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone33. Detached accessory dwellings are limited to 1,200 square feet or 75% of the principal dwelling, whichever is less; attached units are limited to 40% of the principal dwelling’s area33. Applicable wastewater approval must precede the accessory-dwelling zoning certificate33. Mobile-home parks require at least 2 acres and a special conditional-use permit; manufactured homes in a park need approved spaces with water and sewer connections343536.

Building a home in Albany County: the steps, in order

  1. Call the Albany County Planning Department at 307-721-2568 with the parcel, zoning district, proposed dwelling and intended use8.
  1. Submit the zoning-certificate form, correct fee, ownership evidence, site plan, and applicable easements or approach licenses; wait for approval before construction1237.
  1. If the site is in a mapped floodplain, submit a Floodplain Development Application through Planning before excavation or construction9.
  1. Submit the wastewater application, fee and design materials, obtain permission to construct, and leave the completed system uncovered and unused until inspection and approval2638.
  1. Apply through the Wyoming State Engineer's Office before drilling a water well10.
  1. If dividing the property, take even an exempt division to Planning for approval before filing it with the County Clerk39. Major subdivisions also have advance public-notice requirements and an additional $100 notice fee40.

What should you check before buying land in Albany County?

In unincorporated Albany County’s Urban Residential district, minimum lots depend on utilities: 1 acre with centralized water and onsite sewage, 15,000 square feet with onsite wells and centralized sewer, or 10,000 square feet with both centralized water and sewer414243. Urban Residential subdivisions require centralized water or sewer44. Elsewhere, district-specific lot minimums still apply; there is no single residential acreage threshold to use countywide45. Albany County precipitation averages about 15 inches annually, and severe drought occurs in about 13.9% of years; apply to the Wyoming State Engineer’s Office before drilling a well464710. The zoning application requires access information, but we could not confirm a standalone driveway-permit rule; ask Planning about the proposed approach378. We also could not confirm minimum dwelling floor area or lot-coverage limits; ask Planning before committing to a design8.

Watch-outs

  • No county building-code permit does not mean no zoning approval: construction on unincorporated land generally needs a county zoning certificate148.
  • Septic work requires county authorization, and the completed installation cannot be covered or used until inspection and approval4927.
  • Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone parcels can require professional engineering, advanced treatment and continuing inspection obligations30.
  • Campground rules do not settle private-parcel RV living or temporary camping; ask Planning about the parcel and intended use before relying on either option32508.

Sources

  1. Albany County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  2. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  3. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  4. Planning - Wastewater FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  5. Laramie: Unified Development Code (Albany County), quoted and re-checked
  6. Water & Wastewater | Albany County, WY, quoted and re-checked
  7. Water & Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  8. Albany County Planning Department (albanycountywy.gov)
  9. Albany County Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  10. Water & Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  11. Albany County Zoning Certificate Application, quoted and re-checked
  12. Planning Zoning Certificates Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  13. albanycountywy.gov, quoted and re-checked
  14. Albany County Land Use Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  15. Albany County Land Use Permit Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  16. Laramie: Albany County Comprehensive Plan, Community Services (Albany County), quoted and re-checked
  17. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  18. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  19. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  20. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  21. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  22. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  23. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  24. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  25. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  26. Planning - Wastewater FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  27. Regulations for Permit to Construct, Install or Modify Small Wastewater Facilities, quoted and re-checked
  28. Planning | Albany County, WY, quoted and re-checked
  29. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  30. Albany County Wastewater Regulations, quoted and re-checked
  31. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  32. Zoning Resolution Amendments—MHP and Campground Standards, quoted and re-checked
  33. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  34. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  35. albanycountywy.gov, quoted and re-checked
  36. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  37. Planning Zoning Certificates Frequently Asked Questions, quoted and re-checked
  38. Planning - Wastewater FAQ, quoted and re-checked
  39. Albany County Platting & Subdivision Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  40. Albany County Platting & Subdivision Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  41. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  42. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  43. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  44. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  45. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  46. Annual precipitation: Bolthole Index county data
  47. Share of years in severe drought: Bolthole Index county data
  48. Albany County Zoning Resolution, quoted and re-checked
  49. Water & Wastewater, quoted and re-checked
  50. Zoning Resolution Amendments—MHP and Campground Standards, quoted and re-checked

Written October 12, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Unlike 5 of its 6 neighbors, Albany County requires a building permit only in limited cases.

RuleAlbany CountyPlatte CountyLaramie CountyCarbon CountyGoshen CountyConverse CountyNatrona County
Building permitLimitedLimitedRequiredRequiredNot requiredNot requiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesNoNoYes
Septic permitsCounty Planning Dept.WY DEQCounty Div. of Env. HealthWY DEQCounty Planning & GISConverse CountyCasper-Natrona County Health Dept.

County locator

Albany County in Wyoming

67
County map
Albany County highlighted among the Wyoming counties · colored by Index score

How Albany County scores

Seclusion81100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency31100% ev.
Admin Boringness6790% ev.
Durability60100% ev.
Property Autonomy74100% ev.
Carry Cost84100% ev.

Evidence strength: 98%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$380kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$1,040Land / acre
15"Annual rain
13.9% of yrsSevere drought
0.1 / yr (+0.1)Mid-century 100°F days
18.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.02" (+6.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.34×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,719Home insurance / yr
2.5% / yrInsurance growth
0.46%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
384Radius comparison (15 mi)
9People / sq mi
24.3%Federal land
80%Land at 15% slope or less
28.9%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
578,191 acWorkable land screen
11.1%Wooded land
15.8 tonsBiomass / forest ac
41.3°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Albany County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Not yet researched: Town of Rock River

Answers from the rulebook for Albany County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Albany County rules

  • Building permitLimited

    County land-use approval for construction and use of buildings and structures in unincorporated Albany County.

    • The county source describes the zoning certificate as the applicable approval; this claim does not establish a separate building-code permit requirement.
    • Accessory buildings 144 square feet or smaller are excepted.
    • Structures not located on a property for longer than six months are excepted.
    “a zoning certificate must be obtained [...] prior to [...] constructing [...] a building or structure”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction and placement of buildings and structures in unincorporated Albany County.
      “In accordance with W.S. 18-5-203, a zoning certificate must be obtained from the Board of County Commissioners or the Planning Director prior to locating, erecting, constructing, reconstructing, enlarging, changing, or maintaining a building or structure; using a building, structure, or land; or changing the use of a building, structure, or land; excepting the following:”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner constructing a residential dwelling in unincorporated Albany County.

    • The county zoning-certificate application includes a self-built option and an applicant/building-contractor field.
    • The owner must submit the application, required fees, ownership proof, site plan, and other required materials.
    • The owner must sign the application and grant county personnel access for inspections.
    • A zoning certificate is required for a new principal residential structure before construction may begin, subject to the county’s stated exceptions for dirt work.
    • No separate owner-builder exemption from the county zoning certificate or other applicable permits was located.
    • The application states that a floodplain application must be approved before the zoning certificate application can be approved when the structure is in a floodplain.
    • A structure on property of two acres or less requires a professional-surveyor site plan before approval.
    “Self-Built? Yes No Applicant/Building Contractor (if applicable)”
  • Building code adoptedNot adopted

    County building codes in Albany County.

    • The county recommends using a national building code standard for future property sales.
    “Albany County does not have any building codes. However, if you wish to sell your property in the future, we recommend that you use a national building code standard.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Buildings, structures, land uses, and changes of use within Albany County zoning districts in unincorporated Albany County.

    • A zoning certificate must be obtained before the listed activities.
    • Accessory buildings 144 square feet or smaller are excepted.
    • Structures not located on a property for longer than six months are excepted.
    • The cited passage continues with additional exceptions; this result does not resolve them.
    “all unincorporated areas within Albany County, Wyoming.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Zoning regulation in unincorporated Albany County.
      “This resolution shall apply to all unincorporated areas within Albany County, Wyoming. State and Federal lands are exempt from this resolution.”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning and land-use permit review in the unincorporated areas of Albany County, Wyoming.

    • The Albany County Planning Department reviews land-use permit applications in unincorporated areas.
    • State and Federal lands are exempt from the county zoning resolution.
    • If municipal, county, state, or federal law or regulations impose additional standards within unincorporated areas, the more restrictive standard of the entity with legal jurisdiction applies.
    • This claim does not establish zoning rules administered by incorporated municipalities.
    “Section 3. Jurisdiction. This resolution shall apply to all unincorporated areas within Albany County, Wyoming. State and Federal lands are exempt from this resolution.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered zoning in unincorporated Albany County.
      “This resolution shall apply to all unincorporated areas within Albany County, Wyoming. State and Federal lands are exempt from this resolution.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished

    Albany County zoning districts, associated standards, and official zoning maps for unincorporated Albany County.

    • The zoning resolution applies to unincorporated areas; state and federal lands are exempt.
    • Official zoning maps must display the date prepared, be maintained and made publicly available through the Planning Department, and be updated within 30 days after zoning-boundary amendments take effect.
    • The county Planning Department's online map is described as reference-only; the official-map rule is the cited resolution provision.

    published zoning district classifications: A, AR, RR, RA, SLR, UR, C, NB, I

    “The zoning districts within Albany County are: A. Agricultural (A) [...] B. Agricultural Residential (AR) [...] C. Rural Residential (RR) [...] D. Ranchette (RA) [...] E. Small Lot Residential (SLR) [...] F. Urban Residential (UR) [...] G. Neighborhood Business (NB) [...] H. Commercial (C) [...] I. Industrial (I)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Zoning districts and district-specific standards in unincorporated Albany County.
      “The UR zone is primarily for single-family uses on individual lots with centralized water and/or sewer systems, typically within water and sewer districts or in areas that are connected to the City of Laramie water and/or sewer systems.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential development in the Urban Residential (UR) zoning district of unincorporated Albany County.

    • The minimum lot size depends on the water and sewage systems used.
    • If a centralized water system and on-site sewage systems are provided, the minimum is one acre.
    • If on-site wells and a centralized sewage system are provided, the minimum is 15,000 square feet.
    • If centralized sewage and water are both used, the minimum is 10,000 square feet.
    • Frontage requirements differ by the applicable minimum lot size: 100 feet for one-acre lots and 75 feet for the two smaller minimums.
    • Principal and accessory structures must be set back at least 10 feet from property lines; additional well and sewage-system setbacks apply.

    minimum lot size with centralized water and on-site sewage: 1 acre · minimum lot size with on-site wells and centralized sewage: 15000 square feet · minimum lot size with centralized water and centralized sewage: 10000 square feet

    “3. Minimum Lot Size: (a) If a centralized water system and on-site sewage systems will be provided, the minimum lot size shall be one (1) acre. (b) If on-site wells and a centralized sewage system will be provided, the minimum lot size shall be fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet. (c) If both a centralized sewage and water system are employed, density shall have a minimum lot size of ten thousand (10,000) square feet.”
    18 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — County residential zoning districts, with district-specific minimums.
      “Minimum Lot Size: Two (2.0) acres [...] Minimum Setbacks: Principal and accessory structures must be set back ten (10) feet from all property lines.”
    • Specified — Residential development in the Agricultural (A) zoning district of unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per thirty-five (35.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Thirty-five (35.0) acres.”
    • Specified — Residential development in the Agricultural Residential (AR) zoning district of unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per twenty (20.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Ten (10.0) acres.”
    • Specified — Residential development in the Rural Residential (RR) zoning district of unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per ten (10.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Five (5.0) acres.”
    • Specified — Residential development in the Ranchette zoning district of unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per five (5.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Two (2.0) acres.”
    • Specified — Residential development in the Small Lot Residential (SLR) zoning district of unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per two (2.0) acres 3. Minimum Lot Size: Two (2.0) acres”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential development in the Agricultural (A) zoning district in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per thirty-five (35.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Thirty-five (35.0) acres.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential development in the Agricultural Residential (AR) zoning district in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per twenty (20.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Ten (10.0) acres.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential development in the Rural Residential (RR) zoning district in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per ten (10.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Five (5.0) acres.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential development in the Ranchette (RA) zoning district in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per five (5.0) acres. 3. Minimum Lot Size: Two (2.0) acres.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Residential development in the Small Lot Residential (SLR) zoning district in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Density: One (1) principal dwelling unit per two (2.0) acres 3. Minimum Lot Size: Two (2.0) acres”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Subdivision or residential development in the Urban Residential (UR) zoning district where a centralized water system and on-site sewage systems will be provided.
      “(a) If a centralized water system and on-site sewage systems will be provided, the minimum lot size shall be one (1) acre.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Subdivision or residential development in the Urban Residential (UR) zoning district where on-site wells and a centralized sewage system will be provided.
      “(b) If on-site wells and a centralized sewage system will be provided, the minimum lot size shall be fifteen thousand (15,000) square feet.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Subdivision or residential development in the Urban Residential (UR) zoning district where both centralized sewage and water systems will be employed.
      “(c) If both a centralized sewage and water system are employed, density shall have a minimum lot size of ten thousand (10,000) square feet.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Neighborhood Business (NB) zoning district lots in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Minimum Lot Size: Lots must be large enough to site a water and wastewater system (whether on-site or centralized) within required setback limitations.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Industrial (I) zoning district lots in unincorporated Albany County.
      “I. Industrial (I) 1. Purpose: The I zone will be for areas or lands determined appropriate for industrial uses. These uses include the use of land or buildings requiring substantial applications of skill, capital, machinery, or labor in transforming materials into other suitable forms, qualities, or properties. 2. Minimum Lot Size: One (1) acre 3. Minimum Lot Frontage Width: Two hundred (200) feet. 4. Minimum Setbacks: Principal and accessory structures must be set back ten (10) feet from all property lines. Setbacks for water wells shall be fifty (50) feet from all property lines. Setbacks for sewage disposal systems shall be in accordance with the County Resolution entitled “Design and Construction Standards for Small Wastewater Facilities and Regulations for Permit to Construct, Install or Modify Small Wastewater Facilities”.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Mobile home parks in unincorporated Albany County.
      “2. Minimum Lot Size: A mobile home park shall be located on a lot which is two (2) acres or larger. 3. Density: A mobile home park shall be allowed a maximum of five (5) mobile home spaces per acre.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Campground sites in unincorporated Albany County.
      “1. Minimum Lot Size: A campsite shall be located on a lot which is two (2) acres or larger. 2. Campsite Density: A campground shall have a gross density of up to twenty-five (25) campsites per acre.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Structures, wells, and wastewater systems in county zoning districts.

    • Setbacks vary by district and use.
    • Residential examples require structures to be 10 or 20 feet from property lines and wells 50 feet from property lines.
    • Wastewater setbacks follow county wastewater standards.

    typical residential structure setback: 10 feet (some districts require 20 feet)

    “Principal and accessory structures must be set back ten (10) feet from all property lines. Setbacks for water wells shall be fifty (50) feet from all property lines.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Structures and uses in unincorporated Albany County zoning districts.
      “Principal and accessory structures must be set back ten (10) feet from all property lines. Setbacks for water wells shall be fifty (50) feet from all property lines.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Neighborhood Business zoning district.

    • The cited height limit applies to Neighborhood Business zoning.

    maximum building height: <= 25 feet from finished grade

    “Building Height: The building height shall not exceed twenty-five (25) feet from finished grade.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Occupied recreational vehicles in county-regulated campgrounds.

    • A campground permit and specific conditional-use permit are required.
    • Occupied camping units must be placed only on compliant campsites.
    • A campsite must be on a lot of at least two acres and campground density is limited to 25 campsites per acre.

    minimum campground lot: >= 2 acres · maximum campground density: <= 25 campsites per acre

    “Campgrounds shall obtain a campground permit, a specific conditional use permit, in compliance with the standards and requirements of this section.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping in county-regulated campgrounds.

    • A campground permit and specific conditional-use permit are required.
    • Campsites must meet the two-acre minimum lot and density standards.
    • Service buildings with specified sanitation facilities are required.

    minimum campsite lot: >= 2 acres · maximum density: <= 25 campsites per acre

    “Campgrounds shall obtain a campground permit, a specific conditional use permit, in compliance with the standards and requirements of this section.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured/mobile-home occupancy in a mobile-home park.

    • A mobile-home park requires a special conditional-use permit.
    • Mobile homes outside approved spaces are prohibited.
    • Each mobile-home space requires water and sewer connections.

    minimum mobile-home park lot size: >= 2 acres · maximum mobile-home density: <= 5 spaces per acre

    “Mobile home parks shall obtain a mobile home park permit, a special conditional use permit, in compliance with the standards and requirements of this section.”
  • Accessory dwellingsLimited

    Accessory dwellings in zoning districts specified by the Albany County land-use table.

    • One accessory dwelling is allowed per property.
    • Accessory dwellings are prohibited in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone.
    • County wastewater approval is required before approval of the accessory-dwelling zoning certificate when applicable.

    detached accessory dwelling maximum: 1,200 or 75% of principal dwelling, whichever is less square feet · attached accessory dwelling maximum: <= 40 percent of principal dwelling area

    “Accessory dwellings are allowed in zoning districts specified in the Land Use Table. One Accessory Dwelling will be allowed per property.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Small wastewater facilities in Albany County.

    • The county FAQ states that the Assistant Planner - Environmental reviews the application and later schedules approval before backfill.
    • CAPZ septic fields must be designed by a qualified Wyoming-licensed Professional Engineer.
    • Wastewater systems must be installed by a licensed installer, although property owners may install their own system under the Assistant Planner - Environmental's guidance.
    “issued by the Assistant Planner - Environmental”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Small wastewater facilities in Albany County.
      ““Permitting authority” means Albany County.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Construction, installation, discharge, or modification of a small wastewater facility in Albany County.

    • A wastewater permit is required before the facility is constructed, installed, discharged, or modified.
    • An Authorization to Construct letter must be issued by the Albany County Planning Department before construction commences.
    • Construction may begin after the Authorization to Construct letter is issued.
    • Construction deviations from the submitted design require Planning Department approval before field changes are made.
    • The installed facility must be inspected after installation but before backfilling.
    • Failure to comply with the inspection protocol could result in exhumation of the septic system for inspection and/or a $200 late fee.
    • The application expires two years from the date of the Authorization to Construct letter; if installation and inspection do not occur before expiration, a new application must be submitted.
    • A permit may be renewed if a written request is received at least 30 days before expiration and there are no changes to the construction plans.

    small wastewater treatment facility application fee: 400 USD · late fee for construction before authorization: 200 USD · application validity period: 2 years (Measured from the date of the Authorization to Construct letter.) · renewal request deadline: >= 30 days (Written request must be received before application expiration, with no changes to construction plans.)

    “A wastewater permit is a written authorization issued by the County, which authorizes the applicant to construct, install, discharge, or modify the small wastewater facility.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Installing, repairing, or modifying a small wastewater facility in Albany County.
      “installing, repairing or modifying a small wastewater facility.”
    • Required — Construction, installation, discharge, or modification of small wastewater facilities, including septic systems, in Albany County.
      “A wastewater permit is a written authorization issued by the County, which authorizes the applicant to construct, install, discharge, or modify the small wastewater facility.”
    • Required — Installation or replacement of septic systems within Albany County's Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone (APOZ).
      “The installation or replacement of septic systems within the APOZ must be designed and certified by a professional engineer, licensed in Wyoming.”
    • Required — Installing, repairing, or modifying a small wastewater facility.
      “No construction, installation or modification of a small wastewater system shall be allowed unless a permit to construct, install or modify has been obtained from the permitting authority.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Septic tanks, leach fields, and other small wastewater facilities in Albany County.

    • Inspection must occur after installation but before covering.
    • The installation may not be covered or used until inspection and approval.
    • The inspecting official identified in the regulation is the Laramie City Sanitarian.
    “After installation of the septic tank and leach field or other small wastewater facility, but before covering, the applicant or installer shall call for a site inspection by the Laramie City Sanitarian. The installation may not be covered or used until after site inspection and approval.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Small wastewater systems in Albany County before backfill.
      “The installer cannot backfill until [...] final approval of the system.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Off-grid sanitation using a small wastewater facility.

    • A small wastewater facility requires county authorization and inspection.
    • Wells are not permitted by Albany County and are handled by the State Engineer's Office.
    “A wastewater permit is a written authorization issued by the County, which authorizes the applicant to construct, install, discharge, or modify the small wastewater facility.”
  • Well permitNot required

    Albany County well permitting.

    • Well permits are handled through the Wyoming State Engineer's Office.
    “Albany County does not permit wells. Wells are permitted through the State Engineer's Office, who you can contact at 307-777-6163.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Utility connections for regulated mobile-home parks and residential zoning districts.

    • Mobile-home spaces require water and sewer connections.
    • Residential zoning districts may instead use centralized or on-site systems depending on district and parcel conditions.
    “Water and sewer connections shall be provided for each mobile home space.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — Residential development in county zoning districts.
      “The use of a centralized water or sewer system is a requirement for subdivision in this zone.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land divisions subject to Albany County subdivision regulation.

    • Subdivision permit applications require a reasonable processing fee determined by the Board.
    • Major subdivisions require newspaper notice once weekly for two weeks within 30 days before filing.
    • A $100 notice fee is additional to the application filing fee.
    • Certified-mail notice must be given at least 14 days before Planning and Zoning Commission consideration.

    subdivision notice fee: 100 USD (in addition to application filing fee)

    “Section 9. Permit Fees. Pursuant to W.S. § 18-5-309, each application for a subdivision permit shall be accompanied by a reasonable fee not to exceed the cost of processing the application as determined by the Board.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Driveway access information required for zoning-certificate applications.

    • The application process requires easements and/or approach licenses and a site plan showing driveway location.
    • A standalone county driveway-permit requirement was not established.
    “Adjacent roads and their names Locations and outside dimensions of all buildings Building setback distances Setbacks for the well and septic systems Significant features or improvement of the subject property, such as:”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Excavation or construction on property located within an Albany County floodplain.

    • A Floodplain Development Application must be submitted through the Planning Office for changes such as excavation or construction.
    • Floodplain designation is based on the county's official map and FIRM information.
    “If your property is located within a floodplain and you are planning to make changes (such as excavation or construction), you will need to fill out an Floodplain Development Application through the Planning Office.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Albany County land-use, wastewater, floodplain, and subdivision permit fees.

    • The fee schedule includes different amounts by application type and states that late fees may apply.
    • Subdivision engineering review fees are reimbursed to the County by the applicant.

    small wastewater treatment facility fee: 350-400 USD (schedule formatting presents multiple amounts) · floodplain development fee: 350-400 USD (schedule formatting presents multiple amounts)

    “Albany County Land Use Permit Fee Schedule”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — County-administered land-use, zoning, and water/wastewater permit applications reviewed by the Albany County Planning Department in unincorporated Albany County.
      “Albany County Land Use Permit Fee Schedule”
    • Variable (with conditions) — Albany County Planning Department land-use permit applications in unincorporated areas, including zoning and water/wastewater applications.
      “Wastewater Installer & Hauler Licensure $100.00 Small Wastewater Treatment Facility $350.00$400.00”
    • Published (with conditions) — Albany County land-use, zoning, wastewater, floodplain, energy, tower, and subdivision applications administered for unincorporated areas.
      “Zoning District Amendment $750.00 Conditional Use $750.00 Variance $500.00 [...] Floodplain Development $400.00 [...] Small Wastewater Treatment Facility $400.00”
    • Published (with conditions) — Albany County zoning certificates and related land-use applications in unincorporated Albany County.
      “Albany County Land Use Permit Fee Schedule Zoning Applications ($200.00 late fee for construction prior to permit approval)”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Albany County zoning-certificate and related land-use permit process.

    • Applications require a completed form, correct fees, easements or approach licenses, proof of ownership, and a site plan.
    • The Planning Department reviews applications; approval is generally issued within approximately 14 business days when requirements are satisfied.
    • Construction may begin after zoning-certificate approval; dirt work may begin earlier.
    “In order to have your zoning certificate processed, you must mail or bring in the: Completed application Correct fees (cash/check only) Easements and/or approach licenses Proof of ownership (deed) Site plan”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County zoning-certificate and wastewater permit processes.
      “In order to receive authorization to begin a wastewater system, you (or your installer) must bring in the: Completed application Correct fees (cash/check only) Plans, specifications or design data”

Wyoming rules that apply here

  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Newly constructed buildings subject to state fire-marshal plan review statewide.

    • The requirement is subject to W.S. 35-9-108(h), subsection (q), and W.S. 35-9-118.
    • It applies after new construction is completed and after the state fire marshal inspects the building and determines conformance with the plan review or amended plan review.
    • A remodeled building receives a letter of compliance rather than a certificate of occupancy.
    • No newly constructed or remodeled building may be used or occupied until the required certificate of occupancy or letter of compliance is issued.
    • The state fire marshal may order use and occupancy to cease if the building is used before issuance.
    • The state fire marshal requirement does not apply where a municipality or county has received enforcement authority under W.S. 35-9-121.
    “Except as provided under subsections (h) and (q) of this section and W.S. 35-9-118, after new construction or remodeling of buildings is completed, the state fire marshal shall inspect the building and determine conformance with the plan review or amended plan review. If he finds conformance, the state fire marshal shall issue a certificate of occupancy for a newly constructed building and a letter of compliance for a remodeled building. No newly constructed or remodeled building shall be used or occupied until the state fire marshal has issued a certificate of occupancy or letter of compliance.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Certain divisions of land in unincorporated Wyoming made for agricultural purposes or affecting agricultural property-line alignment.

    • The exemption is subject to the article's anti-evasion rule.
    • The county board may adopt documentation requirements concerning proper use and implementation of the exemption.
    • The statutory provision covers a sale or other disposition of land for agricultural purposes or a division affecting the alignment of property lines for agricultural purposes.
    • Other applicable zoning, subdivision, wastewater, access, and utility requirements may still apply where not exempted.
    “A division which is a sale or other disposition of land for agricultural purposes or affects the alignment of property lines for agricultural purposes;”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Certain land divisions, sales, dispositions, or property-line adjustments for agricultural purposes under Wyoming subdivision law, including unincorporated areas.
      “A division which is a sale or other disposition of land for agricultural purposes or affects the alignment of property lines for agricultural purposes;”
  • Short-term rentalsAllowed

    Short-term rental of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes for purposes of Wyoming fire, building, and electrical standards.

    • The statute addresses classification under fire, building, and electrical standards and the International Building Code.
    • This claim does not resolve local zoning, licensing, lodging-tax, health, or other local requirements.
    “short term rental of detached one (1) and two (2) family dwellings and townhomes shall not be regulated as a commercial use”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    County regulation of the location and use of buildings and structures and the use, condition of use or occupancy of land in unincorporated areas of Wyoming.

    • The authority is exercised by each board of county commissioners for the unincorporated area of the county.
    • County zoning may not contravene the zoning authority of an incorporated city or town.
    • A zoning resolution or plan may not prevent a use or occupancy reasonably necessary for extraction or production of mineral resources.
    • A board may not require land use or physical development to be consistent with a local land use plan unless the applicable plan provisions have been incorporated into local zoning regulations.
    • Minimum lot size requirements or other zoning measures may not prevent residential or agricultural uses authorized for land divisions exempt from subdivision requirements under W.S. 18-5-303(a)(i).
    • Private schools meeting the statutory requirements may not be regulated differently from public schools: certification by the professional engineer or architect of record, capacity for fifty (50) students or more, and ownership and operation by a not-for-profit entity.
    “To promote the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the county, each board of county commissioners may regulate and restrict the location and use of buildings and structures and the use, condition of use or occupancy of lands for residence, recreation, agriculture, industry, commerce, public use and other purposes in the unincorporated area of the county.”
  • county building authorityLimited

    County enforcement and interpretation of local or state fire, building, existing-building, and electrical safety standards, including residential construction in unincorporated areas, when the county obtains local enforcement authority under W.S. 35-9-121.

    • A county must apply for local enforcement authority and receive delegation from the state fire marshal by letter.
    • Before initial delegation, the state fire marshal must determine that the county has adopted minimum standards by ordinance or resolution equivalent to or more stringent than applicable department standards.
    • If the county fails to adopt new standards within six (6) months after department adoption, or fails to maintain standards at least meeting statewide standards, enforcement authority immediately reverts to the department.
    • For fire and building code enforcement, inspectors employed or contracted after July 1, 2010 must be certified by the International Code Council or the International Conference of Building Officials.
    • If electrical-code authority is requested, an electrical inspector must be certified by the International Code Council or International Association of Electrical Inspectors and licensed by Wyoming as a journeyman or master electrician.
    • If the county fails to maintain a required certified inspector, enforcement authority reverts to the department one hundred twenty (120) days after the inspector leaves.
    • A local governmental entity may assume sole plan-review authority and sole construction-inspection authority on approved plans, subject to the statutory certification requirements.
    • If local code provisions are more stringent than adopted state codes, the local code prevails.
    • The statute grants authority to enforce and interpret building standards; it does not establish that every Wyoming county universally requires a residential building permit without county-specific implementation.

    new standards adoption deadline: 6 months (following adoption of new standards by the department) · certification applicability date: July 1, 2010 (inspectors employed or contracted after this date) · authority reversion period after certified inspector leaves: 120 days

    “The state fire marshal shall delegate complete authority to municipalities and counties which apply to enforce and interpret local or state fire, building, existing building standards or electrical safety standards which meet the requirements of this section. The state fire marshal shall notify the governing body of the municipality or county of the minimum standards and requirements of this act and W.S. 16-6-501 and 16-6-502 and transfer jurisdiction and authority by letter.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Inspections — Building inspections for structures other than wastewater systems in unincorporated Albany County.
  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling size in unincorporated Albany County.
  • Lot coverage — Lot coverage in unincorporated Albany County.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Albany County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Albany County, Wyoming

Is Albany County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Albany County scores 67/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: manageable long-term carry cost and sparse surroundings — about 384 people within 15 miles. Watch-outs: thin water margin (15″/yr rainfall).

Do you need a building permit in Albany County, Wyoming?

Albany County requires a building permit only in limited cases (such as floodplains or specific zones), and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Albany County Planning Department (Small Wastewater / Water & Wastewater program, under WY DEQ Water Quality Division framework). Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Albany County, Wyoming?

Land in Albany County runs about $1,040 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Albany County?

Albany County gets about 15" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 13.9% of years.

How remote is Albany County?

A typical private-land location has about 384 people within 15 miles and 828,265 within 100 miles. These radius catchments are the published fallback where road routing is unavailable.

How Albany compares in Wyoming

Compare side-by-side →See all 23 Wyoming counties ranked →