Public Works Division
The Public Works Division is committed to providing an attractive and well-maintained City that reflects a community that cares about its surroundings, while also assisting applicants by delivering reliable infrastructure. The Division works to ensure safe, functional, and well-maintained public systems while protecting public health and supporting the needs of the community.
Public Works Division Services
Public Works is responsible for oversight of City functions relating to all infrastructure systems including sanitary sewer, storm drainage, coordination of utility company systems, street maintenance and improvement, sidewalks, street lighting, signage and provisions to promote pedestrian and bicycle safety, all public landscaping, parks maintenance, street trees, City facilities maintenance and improvements, encroachment permit inspections, and project management.
Reporting a suspected sewer backup
Suspected or visible sewage backups in the public sanitary sewer system should be reported to the City immediately. Even if you are not sure, please call!
Public Works staff are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. During regular business hours, call the Public Works Division at (530) 934-5657 or City Hall at (530) 934-7041. After hours, weekends, and holidays, call the Willows Fire Department at (530) 934-3323.
Street Maintenance
Maintaining the city’s streets includes more than replacing curbs and gutters during paving projects – it also involves removal of tripping hazards and ensure access is provided per current standards. In addition to streets, Public Works is also responsible for all street signs, road markings, and traffic signals are all part of providing safe accessible streets.
Parks, Landscaping, and City Facilities
The Public Works Division maintains the City’s parks, public landscaping, street trees, and municipal facilities. This work includes routine grounds maintenance, irrigation management, tree care, and upkeep of City-owned buildings and over 29 acres of public recreational spaces. These efforts help ensure that public areas remain safe, functional, and attractive for residents and visitors.
Storm Drainage and Flood Control
The Public Works Division is responsible for maintenance of the City’s storm drainage system, including storm drains, culverts, and drainage facilities. Routine maintenance helps reduce localized flooding and protects public infrastructure during storm events.
The Federal Clean Water Act and related regulations require the City of Willows to protect local waterways and minimize pollutants entering the storm drainage system. Because storm drains discharge directly to creeks and other waterways, dumping chemicals, paint, dirt, debris, or other pollutants into storm drains is prohibited by law.
For more information, please contact City Hall at (530) 934-7041.
Sanitary Sewer System
The Public Works Division provides routine maintenance and emergency response services for the City’s sewer infrastructure, helping ensure the safe collection and conveyance of wastewater to the treatment plant.
To help protect the sewer system and wastewater treatment process, residents and businesses should never dispose of grease, oils, wipes, chemicals, paint, or other non-flushable materials into the sanitary sewer system.
Wastewater Treatment Plant
The City of Willows wastewater treatment plant processes wastewater collected through the city’s sanitary sewer system and ensures it is properly treated before discharge, protecting public health and the region’s waterways.
Plant operations are managed by Inframark under contract with the City, while Public Works staff coordinate with the operator to ensure reliable system performance.
