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1. Should I contact anyone before beginning a project?

Please refer to the Albany County Zoning Resolution or call the Planning Office at 307-721-2568 before beginning a project. These frequently asked questions are meant to be a guide, but are not the regulations. Some projects may require more than a zoning certificate.

2. What is a zoning certificate?

A statement issued by the Albany County Board of County Commissioners that the proposed development is in compliance with the zoning regulation.

3. When do I need a zoning certificate?

A zoning certificate is required for new uses, expansions of existing uses, conditional uses, or changes of use pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 18-5-203. Uses which require a zoning certificate are:

• Principal Structures: the main or principal use of the property. These buildings may be agricultural, residential, commercial, or industrial buildings.
  • Examples include homes, cabins, commercial structures, etc., including structures moved onto the property, such as modular homes, mobile homes and relocated stick-built homes.
• Accessory Buildings: a building that is incidental, detached, and subordinate to the principal structure. This includes any structure with a roof, attached or detached, as well as any temporary or portable structure, and:
  • Barns
  • Garages
  • Sheds
  • Shops
• Additions to Principal Structures or Accessory Buildings:
  • Enclosed porches
  • Additional living space
  • Covered decks
  • Garage additions

4. Where can I find a Zoning Certificate Application?

Access the Zoning Certificate Application. Applications can also be picked up in our office, located at 1002 S 3rd Street in the County Annex Building.

5. When does the zoning certificate expire?

Zoning certificates are valid for two years from the date of approval. A one year extension may be granted, at the discretion of the County Planner, if substantial progress toward completion has occurred.

6. What is required for a zoning certificate?

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

Incomplete applications will be returned.

7. What can be used for proof of ownership?

A deed, warranty deed, or a contract for deed can be used for proof of ownership.

8. Where can I get a copy of my deed?

The County Real Estate Office, located at 525 Grand Avenue, will have a copy of your deed. If out-of-town, you can call the Real Estate Office at 307-721-2547 and they can fax us a copy of your deed.

9. What is required for the site plan?

A site plan requires:

• The entire lot or parcel with dimensions and orient the drawing to the North Arrow
• 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:
  • Corrals
  • Fences
  • Irrigation ditches
  • Overhead power lines
  • Ponds
  • Septic systems
  • Streams
  • Towers
  • Wells
• Driveway location

10. When will my zoning certificate be approved?

The Albany County Zoning Certificate Application will be reviewed by the Planning Department. If it satisfies the requirements of the Zoning Regulations, the application will be approved. The approval packet will be emailed to the applicant within approximately 14 business days of submittal.

11. When will I receive the approved zoning certificate?

You will receive your approved zoning certificate in the mail approximately one to two weeks from the date of approval.

12. Can I build my shop (accessory building) first?

County Zoning Regulations (PDF) require that a principal structure must be permitted or applied for in order for an accessory building permit to be approved. An accessory building is defined as any structure not used as a principal structure.

13. What if I build without a permit?

A late fee charge of $100 will be assessed for any construction begun prior to approval from the Board of County Commissioners.

14. Why do you need the estimated cost of my new structure?

New construction and estimated building costs are reported to the Wyoming Center for Business and Economic Analysis, Inc. and the U.S. Census Bureau.

15. Do I have to get a wastewater (septic) permit before a zoning certificate?

It is strongly recommended that you obtain your zoning certificate and wastewater permit at the same time. If you are building on a small lot, this is highly recommended to insure that the proper location for the septic field can be determined.

Access the Wastewater Permit.

16. When can I begin construction?

Construction can be begun as soon as your zoning certificate has been approved. Dirt work can be started prior to approval.