Wyoming Statewide Rule

Wyoming Livestock Brand and Health Laws

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Wyoming (2026)

Key Facts

Agency: Wyoming Livestock Board
Statute: Title 11
Fence rule: Fence-out state
Brand inspection: Required at sale
Disease control: State Veterinarian

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Wyoming Legislature

Summary

Wyoming livestock laws require brand inspections, disease control, and fencing standards statewide. The Wyoming Livestock Board administers brand recording and movement permits that municipalities cannot override.

11-20-205. Procedures generally; estrays. (a) Except as otherwise provided, before selling, changing ownership or removing any livestock from any county of Wyoming, the person selling, changing ownership or intending to cause removal shall notify the inspector of the date of the intended removal and the time and place when and where the required inspection for brands and ownership can be made. The inspection shall be made within a reasonable time prior to shipment. The person in charge of the livestock shall hold the livestock at the place designated until the livestock have been inspected and an official certificate of inspection is issued. The person in charge shall render the inspecting officer such assistance as is practicable while the required inspection is being made.

Source: Wyoming LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Wyoming Statutes Title 11 vests the Wyoming Livestock Board with authority over cattle, horse, and sheep brand recording, brand inspections at sale or movement, and statewide animal health rules. Wyoming is a fence-out state under W.S. 11-28-101, meaning livestock owners are not generally liable for trespass unless lawful fences are breached. The State Veterinarian sets disease control rules including quarantines and importation requirements. While poultry and small-flock chickens fall largely outside brand inspection, state animal health rules still apply. Municipalities can zone livestock through local ordinances, but state brand and health regulations apply uniformly regardless of jurisdiction.

Violations & Penalties

Moving livestock without required brand inspection, violating quarantine, or obstructing State Veterinarian orders are misdemeanors under Title 11 with fines and potential animal seizure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wyoming a fence-out state?

Yes. Under W.S. 11-28-101, landowners must build lawful fences to keep livestock off their property. Owners are not liable for trespass through unfenced land.

Do I need a brand for my cattle?

Brands must be recorded with the Wyoming Livestock Board, and brand inspection is required when cattle change ownership or move out of state. Sheep and horses also fall under brand law.

Can a city ban chickens?

Yes. State law focuses on brand and disease, not poultry zoning. Municipalities can prohibit or limit backyard chickens through local ordinances.

Sources

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