Public Utilities Branch
Building Permits, Infrastructure & Community Services
About Public Utilities
The Branch of Public Utilities primary responsibility is to administer and manage the construction, operation and maintenance of the Tribes infrastructure for water, wastewater and distribution collection systems, facilities and sanitation services for the community.
Our Mission
The mission of the Branch of Public Utilities is to provide our community with the highest standard of public service that continually enhances the quality of life within our reservation boundaries.
Services We Provide
Water Services
Water treatment facilities, distribution maintenance and repairs throughout the community.
Wastewater Treatment
Comprehensive wastewater treatment facilities and collection systems.
Solid Waste Management
Solid waste collection, disposal, and sanitation services for the community.
Underground Utilities
Installation and maintenance oversight of underground utility infrastructure.
Building Maintenance
Maintenance of over 90 tribal buildings including Health & Wellness Center.
Building Inspections
Safety inspections and permit processing for construction projects.
Departments
The Branch of Public Utilities consists of the following departments:
Administration
Manages overall operations, budgets, personnel, and coordinates services across all Public Utilities departments.
Janitorial/Custodial Services
Provides cleaning and custodial services for tribal buildings and facilities.
Building Maintenance
Handles repairs, maintenance, and upkeep of tribal buildings and structures.
Maintenance Engineering
Provides engineering oversight and technical expertise for infrastructure projects.
Building/Safety Inspections
Conducts inspections for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits to ensure safety compliance.
Water/Wastewater/Distribution
Operates water treatment plants, manages wastewater facilities, and maintains distribution systems.
Environmental Health
Monitors environmental health standards and ensures community safety.
Sanitation and Landfill
Manages solid waste collection, landfill operations, and sanitation services.
Groundskeeping
Maintains landscaping, grounds, and outdoor spaces for tribal facilities.
Building Permits
The Public Utilities Branch processes building permits for residential and commercial construction projects. All construction work requires proper permits to ensure safety and code compliance.
Residential Permits
- Residential Electric Permit - Required for all electrical work in residential properties
- Residential Mechanical Permit - Required for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
- Residential Plumbing Permit - Required for all plumbing installations and modifications
Commercial Permits
- Commercial Electric Permit - Required for commercial electrical installations
- Commercial Mechanical Permit - Required for commercial HVAC systems
- Commercial Plumbing Permit - Required for commercial plumbing work
Contractor Requirements
All contractors must complete a Contractor Information Form prior to starting work on tribal lands. This ensures compliance with tribal regulations and TERO requirements.
Work Order Process
How to Submit a Work Order
- A work order must be filled out by an authorized signer (e.g., person responsible for the bill)
- It is then authorized, prioritized and sent to the appropriate Public Utilities department
- Assessed on job needs, start date, timeline and estimated completion date
- Arrangements are made with Public Utilities and homeowner on start date, timeline and estimated completion date
- If work is delayed, Public Utilities will communicate with the customer about the delay
- Upon project completion, billing is prepared
Indian Health Service Sanitation Facilities Program
Under the authority of Public Law 86-121, the Indian Health Service (IHS), Office of Environmental Health and Engineering is presently engaged in a program to assist Indian families with the construction of sanitation facilities which include water supply and sewage disposal facilities.
IHS Sanitation Program
Services Include:
- Water wells
- Septic tanks
- Drain fields
- Lagoons
- Community water and sewer hookups
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe, band, or group
- Must own the property on which your home is located (provide proof of ownership or 10-year minimum lease agreement)
- Home must be your permanent residence capable of being occupied 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- Structure and foundation must be sound, home must be insulated
- Must have permanently installed heating system
- Must be served by commercial electric utility and have interior plumbing facilities
- Mobile homes must be permanently placed, blocked, leveled, tied down, skirted, with towing tongue and wheels removed
Note: Travel trailers, motor homes, and camp homes do not qualify for service.
Application Process:
Submit the completed Application for Sanitation Facilities to Chico Holliday, General Manager, Branch of Public Utilities. The application will be reviewed and presented to the Tribal Chairperson for signature, then forwarded to the IHS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
Q: If I see water leaking, what should I do?
A: If you see water leaking, please call Public Utilities with the location of the suspected water leak.
Q: I have submitted a work order but am unsure of the status, who do I contact?
A: Please call Public Utilities to get an update on the status of a submitted work order.
Q: How do I pay an outstanding bill with Public Utilities?
A: There are three options for making a payment:
- Cash or check payments can be made at the Public Utilities front office
- Debit card payments can be made at Cash Management in the Tribal Administration Building
- A payroll deduction or per capita deduction can be arranged for services in advance for those who qualify
Q: Where can I get a copy of Annual Water Quality Reports?
A: Annual Water Quality Reports are available for download in the sidebar, including reports for Sidwalter, Simnasho-Schoolie, and Warm Springs Water Treatment Plant Community Water Systems.
Need Assistance with Utilities or Permits?
Contact the Public Utilities Branch for work orders, permit applications, or service inquiries.
Contact Public Utilities