Sleeping in your car in Wyoming is generally legal, but there are important rules and considerations to keep in mind to stay within the law and ensure your safety.
Statewide Legal Status
- No Statewide Ban: Wyoming does not prohibit sleeping in your car at the state level. You are free to sleep in your vehicle as long as you are in a location where parking is allowed and you are not on private property without permission.
- Rest Areas: Wyoming’s rest areas are open 24/7 and allow overnight parking for travelers who need rest. However, camping (such as setting up tents or extending RV slideouts) is not permitted. You can sleep in your car for a full night, but you should not stay longer than necessary.
Local Ordinances and Restrictions
- City and Town Rules: While there is no statewide ban, some cities and towns may have local ordinances that restrict overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles, especially in downtown areas or specific zones. Always check local signage and regulations before settling in for the night.
- Example – Jackson, WY: Overnight parking is not allowed on public streets or in certain lots between November 1 and April 15 to accommodate snow plowing and winter maintenance. Paid overnight parking is available in the public garage during this period, but no overnight parking is allowed on the top level in winter. Outside of winter, parking on public streets is allowed for up to 72 hours.
Private Property and Safety
- Private Property: Sleeping in your car on private property without permission can result in a trespassing charge. Always obtain permission from the property owner before parking overnight.
- Safety Tips: For your safety, park in well-lit areas like rest stops or truck stops, let someone know your location, lock your doors, and keep windows mostly closed.
Special Considerations: Alcohol and DUI
- DUI Risk: If you are intoxicated and sleep in your car, you could still be charged with a DUI, even if the keys are not in the ignition or you are not driving. To reduce this risk, avoid sleeping in the driver’s seat and keep the keys out of reach.
Summary Table
| Location/Scenario | Allowed? | Notes/Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide (general) | Yes | As long as parking is allowed and not private |
| Wyoming rest areas | Yes | Overnight parking allowed, no camping |
| City streets (varies) | Check local rules | Some cities restrict overnight parking |
| Private property | No (without permission) | Trespassing possible without permission |
| Intoxicated in car | No (DUI risk) | Could be charged with DUI |
Key Takeaways
- Sleeping in your car is legal in Wyoming as long as you are parked where overnight parking is permitted and not on private property without permission.
- Rest areas allow overnight vehicle sleeping, but not camping.
- Some cities, like Jackson, restrict overnight parking during winter or in certain zones.
- Never sleep in your car on private property without permission.
- If you have been drinking, you could still face DUI charges even if you are not driving.
Always check local regulations and prioritize your safety when sleeping in your car in Wyoming.
Sources:
- https://mycountry955.com/does-wyoming-allow-people-to-sleep-in-their-car/
- https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/2024-12-26/100-plus-cities-in-the-u-s-banned-homeless-camping-this-year-but-will-it-work
- https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2025/HB0073
- https://www.wyomingrestareas.com/rest-area-rules/