Cheyenne, WY Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Encampment Sanitation (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- City Code Ch. 8.68
- Camping fine
- Up to $50, misdemeanor
- Abatement notice
- 48 hours, written/posted
- Enforcing agency
- City compliance department
- Permit option
- City clerk issues camping permits
Summary
Cheyenne outlaws campsites on any public property citywide and directs its compliance department to abate them, following a 48-hour posted notice unless the site poses an imminent health, safety, or flood risk.
It is unlawful for any campsite to be situated on public property of the city. Every unlawful campsite shall be subject to abatement by the department in accordance with Section 8.68.040 of this chapter. No person shall use or otherwise occupy any public property of the city of Cheyenne for camping purposes unless the person holds a valid permit issued in accordance with Section 8.68.035 of this chapter. Any person who violates subsection (B) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than fifty dollars ($50.00).
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 73).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 8.68 makes it unlawful for any campsite, a tent, tarp, lean-to, sleeping bag, or similar cover used to reside on public property, to be situated on city streets, alleys, sidewalks, greenways, parks, or rights-of-way. Camping without a city-issued permit is a misdemeanor. Once flagged by police or a city employee, the compliance department abates unlawful campsites, coordinating with public works, after 48 hours' written or verbal notice and posted signage, except emergencies (crime, imminent fire/flood danger) allow immediate abatement. Property left behind after notice expires is treated as abandoned and disposed of; anything seized during an emergency abatement is held at least 48 hours for owners to reclaim.
Violations & Fines
Camping on public property without a permit: misdemeanor, fine up to $50 per section 8.68.030(C); unpermitted camping under 8.68.035 is a separate $50 misdemeanor for each day it continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone legally camp on Cheyenne public property?
How much notice does the city give before clearing a campsite?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cheyenne
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