Ever wonder who fixes those annoying potholes on Rimrock Road or makes sure your tap water is clean enough to drink? That’s all thanks to the hardworking folks at Billings Public Works! As someone who’s lived in Billings for years, I’ve seen firsthand how essential these services are for our community.
The Public Works Department might not be the flashiest part of city government, but boy, they sure keep this place functioning! From garbage collection to road maintenance, these are the people who handle the infrastructure that makes modern life possible in our city
In this article, I’ll dive into everything you need to know about Billings Public Works – their services, upcoming projects, and how to contact them when you need assistance. Let’s get started!
What Services Does Billings Public Works Provide?
Billings Public Works handles a wide variety of essential services that impact our daily lives. Here’s a breakdown of their main responsibilities:
Water Services
- Water treatment and delivery
- Water quality testing
- Water reclamation facility operations
- Water line repairs and maintenance
- Consumer confidence reports (water quality reports)
Streets & Transportation
- Road maintenance and repair
- Street sweeping (spring and fall)
- Snow removal and winter road treatment
- Traffic signal maintenance
- Downtown traffic management
- Chip sealing and crack sealing
Solid Waste & Recycling
- Residential garbage collection
- Landfill operations
- Cardboard recycling program
- Yard waste collection
- Leaf collection sites
- Christmas tree recycling
- Special waste disposal
Stormwater Management
- Stormwater system maintenance
- Flood prevention
- Runoff management
- Water quality protection
Recent News & Updates from Billings Public Works
If you’re wondering what’s happening with Public Works right now, here are some of the latest updates from their official website (billingsmtpublicworks.gov) and Facebook page:
Fall 2025 Initiatives
- Annual Fall Sweeping: Starting Monday, October 13, 2025
- Leaf Container Sites: 8 sites open for 8 weeks starting Monday, October 13, 2025
- Lake Naming Contest: Help name Billings’ new lakes! Contest running all October
- October Cardboard & Leaf Container Calendar: New schedule posted
Transportation Projects
- Downtown Striping: Final striping underway – expect traffic changes
- New 2-Way Bike Route: Implementation with on-street parking
- Zimmerman Trail Maintenance: Regular closures for safety maintenance
- Help Shape Transportation Future: Public input requested on future planning
I actually drove through downtown last week and noticed the new two-way traffic flow It’s taking some getting used to, but I think it’ll make getting around downtown easier in the long run!
Utility Billing Information
One thing that affects every Billings resident is utility billing. The Public Works Department has been making some changes to their billing system recently:
- Utility Billing Update for accounts with unpaid balances
- Schedule set for late fees and service shutoffs
- New billing cycles being implemented
- Getting back to normal billing cycles after system conversion
If you’re having issues with your utility bill, you can contact the Office of Administration at 406-657-8230. They’re located at 316 N. 26th Street, 5th Floor, Billings, MT 59101.
Seasonal Services You Should Know About
Depending on the time of year, Billings Public Works offers different services to meet seasonal needs:
Spring/Summer Services
- Yard waste collection (usually starts in early April)
- Street sweeping (begins in April)
- Chip sealing and road repairs
- Water conservation initiatives
Fall Services
- Leaf collection at designated sites
- Fall street sweeping (starts mid-October)
- Final road repairs before winter
Winter Services
- Snow removal and road treatment
- Water main break repairs
- Holiday garbage collection schedules
I remember last winter when we had that big snowstorm in February – Public Works crews were out all night keeping the main roads clear. Those folks deserve some serious credit!
Cool Projects Happening in Billings
Billings Public Works has several major projects in the works that will improve our city:
West End Water Treatment Plant
- Groundbreaking took place in March 2024
- Will expand municipal water capacity
- Partnership between BBWA and City of Billings
Skyway Drive (Inner Belt Loop)
- Opened on June 6, 2024
- 20 years in the making!
- Improves traffic flow on the west end
Skyline Trail
- New informative signs about mountain ranges visible from the Rimrocks
- Part of ongoing recreational infrastructure improvements
- Connected to the Inner Belt Loop project
Downtown 2-Way Restoration
- Converting one-way streets to two-way traffic
- Final striping currently underway
- Aims to improve downtown access and business visibility
How to Contact Billings Public Works
Need to get in touch with Public Works? Here’s how:
Office of Administration
316 N. 26th Street – 5th Floor
Billings, MT 59101
Phone: 406-657-8230
Social Media
- Facebook: facebook.com/billingsmtpublicworks
- Instagram: Follow Billings Public Works on Instagram
- Twitter: @billingsmtpw
Website
billingsmtpublicworks.gov
I’ve found their Facebook page to be pretty responsive when I’ve had questions!
Recycling & Waste Management Tips
Billings has been expanding its recycling efforts, and here are some key things to know:
Cardboard Recycling
- Billings’ first citywide recycling program
- Monthly collection calendars available online
- Program started September 2023
Yard Waste Collection
- Annual program starts in early April
- Special guidelines for proper disposal
- Separate from regular garbage collection
Leaf Collection Sites
- 8 sites open throughout fall (starting October 13, 2025)
- Designated areas in neighborhood parks
- Convenient alternative to bagging leaves
Landfill Information
- New driver’s license scan system implemented July 1, 2025
- Special waste disposal guidelines
- Indoor drop-off areas available
Environmental Initiatives
Billings Public Works isn’t just about infrastructure – they’re also working on environmental sustainability:
LEED Gold Certification
- First in Montana to achieve this recognition!
- Among only 21 Gold certified cities and communities worldwide
- Shows commitment to sustainable practices
Clean Energy Fair Participation
- City participated in August 24th event
- Showcased sustainable initiatives
- Public education on environmental programs
Stormwater Program
- Changes implemented July 1, 2024
- Focuses on water quality protection
- Public meetings held to gather community input
Emergency Response & Weather Events
When severe weather hits, Public Works plays a crucial role:
Storm Response
- Debris cleanup plans following severe storms
- Water main break repairs
- Flood prevention during snowmelt and heavy rains
Winter Weather
- Crews ready to respond to winter storms
- Road treatment and snow removal
- Special service schedules during extreme cold
I gotta say, I was impressed with how quickly they cleared debris after that big thunderstorm we had last summer. My street was a mess of branches and leaves, but they had it cleaned up within a day!
Special Events & Community Outreach
Billings Public Works regularly engages with the community:
Public Works Week Celebration
- Family-friendly adventure-filled open house events
- Opportunity to learn about Public Works operations
- Interactive activities for kids
Public Outreach Presentations
- Series at Billings Library Community Room
- Educational events about Public Works functions
- Q&A sessions with department staff
Community Clean Up
- Partnership with Bright n’ Beautiful
- Volunteer opportunities for residents
- Focus on keeping Billings clean and beautiful
Educational Resources
Want to learn more about how Billings’ infrastructure works?
Video Tutorials
- Available on the Public Works website
- How-to guides for various services
- FAQs and additional information
Water Quality Reports
- Annual Consumer Confidence Reports
- Detailed information on water testing
- Available online for public review
Public Works Newsletter
- “Packed with Feel Good News”
- August 2024 edition recently released
- Updates on projects and initiatives
The People Behind Public Works
It’s easy to forget that Public Works is made up of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to keep our city functioning. From the water reclamation team (who recently received special recognition for their creative thinking) to the street crews who work through the night during snowstorms, these folks deserve our thanks.
As a resident, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences when dealing with Public Works staff. They’re responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely seem to care about making Billings a better place to live.
How to Stay Informed
To keep up with the latest from Billings Public Works:
- Check their website regularly: billingsmtpublicworks.gov
- Follow their social media accounts
- Sign up for alerts through their new phone system
- Watch for public meetings and input opportunities
- Review monthly service calendars posted online
Billings Public Works might not be the most glamorous department in city government, but they’re certainly one of the most important! From the water we drink to the roads we drive on, their work touches every aspect of life in our city.
Whether you’re new to Billings or have lived here for years, understanding the services provided by Public Works can help you better navigate city life and take advantage of the resources available to residents.
Next time you see a Public Works crew out fixing a pothole or clearing snow, maybe give ’em a friendly wave – they deserve it!
For the most up-to-date information on services, schedules, and projects, visit billingsmtpublicworks.gov or check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/billingsmtpublicworks.
Train for a Career
Get hands-on, real-world job experience through the Registered Apprenticeship training program. Apprentices receive training from seasoned, skilled workers and technical instruction in the classroom.
File for Unemployment in Montana
Qualified individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own who are currently looking for full-time work or pursuing approved training programs may be eligible for temporary income.
To file, you must first create an account for the Claimant Center.Create an Account
How To Videos Unemployment Insurance Claimant Center
Submit and manage your WOTC applications.
Submit and manage your business events or training provider applications.
Job Service Centers can provide resources to assist you in Career Exploration, Job Searches, a New Career, and Training. See what resources and events are going on at your local Job Service Location by choosing a location on the map.
Select a location on the map
On the Job with Rob featuring City of Billings
FAQ
What is the new online portal for Billings Public Works?
The new online portal is accountadmin.billingsmtpublicworks.gov If you’ve received an email notification from Billings Public Works that your bill is ready, please follow the links on the email to view your invoice, pay your bill, or log into the online portal to manage your utilities.
What does the Billings Public Works Department do?
The Public Works Department in Billings, Montana, is responsible for maintaining and improving the city’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water and sewer systems, and parks. The department also provides a variety of services to residents, such as snow removal, street sweeping, and garbage collection.
How do I contact city of Billings Public Works?
Customers are also encouraged to follow the City of Billings Public Works Facebook page for real-time updates. For more information, customers can reach Public Works via Facebook message, by email at [email protected], or by calling (406) 657-8315, option 3. The following is a press release from City of Billings Public Works:BILLINGS, Mont.
What happened to Billings Public Works in June 2024?
BILLINGS, Mont. – The City of Billings Public Works Department transitioned to a new billing software system in June 2024. Unfortunately, this conversion has caused delays, resulting in bills for May service going out in July and requiring that a 60-day bill be issued for June and July.
Does Billings have a garbage collection service?
Solid Waste Division of Billings Public Works is offering a One Week Only daily “Extras” garbage collection service this holiday season Read on The City of Billings Public Works Department is happy to announce the partial re-opening of the east end of the drop-off building at the Billings Regional Landfill. Read on
What happened to the city of Billings utility billing system?
The City of Billings utility billing system recently went through a conversion. The new customer portal is accountadmin.billingsmtpublicworks.gov The upgrade was initially planned for February but had to be pushed twice due to issues with the legacy system, which is why we are making the upgrade.
Is the tap water in Billings, Montana safe to drink?
Is the Water in Billings, MT Safe to Drink? The short answer is that while the municipal water supply in Billings, MT generally meets federal and state safety standards, various factors can still influence the overall quality of the water that comes out of your tap.
Why are billings growing so fast?
It provides services to the Bakken oil development, 250 to 350 miles to the east, as well as the Heath Shale oil discovery north of Billings, the city’s growth rate stayed high during the shale oil boom.
Where are the leaf collection sites in Billings?
This year we’ll be placing two open-top 20-yard leaf collection dumpsters at the following locations: Castle Rock Park, Clevenger Park, Veterans Park, Dehler Park, Poly Vista Park, and Amend Park, as marked on the map.
