FAQs

I want to add a light fixture in my house.  Do I need a permit?  

Yes, and all electrical permits and inspections are done by the State of Oregon. Call (541) 396-2148 for the Coquille field office of the State Building Codes Division. 

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PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FAQs

Where do I get water?

Water service can be arranged at the Administrative Services Department, City of Brookings City Hall between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday.  Water distribution and wastewater collection are both provided by the City of Brookings.

How about electricity, phone and garbage?

For electricity contact Coos Curry Electricity at 469-2103.  Garbage is picked up by Curry Transfer and Recycle (CTR), 469-2425 and you can arrange for your phone by calling Verizon Communications, 1-800-483-4100.

Where is my sewer line?

Sewer laterals are the property owners responsibility and inspected by the Building Division sewer lateral inspector at the time of construction, however, a look at the Public Works map can usually give a good idea of the approximate location.

My sewer's backed up--Help!

First make certain your line is clear to the City's line.  You may need a plumber to do this.  Once you know your line is clear, during the work day it is best to call City Hall (469-1125) so they can call the Public Works crew on the radio; after hours call the Brookings Police Department (469-3118) and they will call a Public Works employee to investigate the blockage.

Why isn't my street paved?

Streets are picked by priority: by the amount of traffic and by the conditions of the driving surface. Each year that funds are available we are allocating 70% of the Street System Replacement funds to main traffic ways, 20% to secondary streets, and the remaining 10% to road shoulder work, striping and curb replace to meet ADA requirements. The Capital Improvement Plan lays out street paving plans until the year 2004 and can be viewed in the Planning Department office in City Hall.

Who cuts weeds on vacant lots?

Property owners are responsible to keep weeds controlled on their lots. If weeds become a fire hazard the city will issue an abatement order and, if necessary, cut the weeds and bill the property owner.

Who trims the trees overhanging the road?

On residential streets, it is the property owner's responsibility.

My street light is out - Who replaces it?

Coos-Curry Electric will replace burnt out street lights. Contact them at 469-2103.

Who replaces missing street signs?

The City of Brookings replaces signs due to fading, vandalism and auto accidents.  Reimbursement will be sought if those responsible for damage can be determined. Call City Hall, 469-1171 to relay information on needed signs.

I'd like to use a City Park.  How do I reserve it?

Areas in any of the City Parks can be reserved.  The City Manager's Administrative Assistant (469-1100) can help you with these reservations.  She has information on what type of activities can and cannot be held in the parks.

WATER DEPARTMENT FAQs

I'm new in town and need water service.  Where do I request it?  

Water service can be arranged at the Administrative Services Department, City of Brookings City Hall between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.  Monday thru Friday.  Water distribution and wastewater collection are both provided by the City of Brookings.  

Who can I talk to about questions on my water or sewer billing?  

Call the City Administrative Services Department at 469-1125.

How much drinking water does Brookings produce in one year?

The average Brookings citizen uses about 125 gallons of water per day, and public schools and parks use about 60,000 gallons per day.  To meet the City's demand for safe, potable water, the city treats over 450 million gallons of water each year, transmitting it through over 26.5 miles of pipe.  

Who can I call if I have a concern with my drinking water or if I want more information on water quality?  

Brookings water meets and, in most cases, far exceeds all federal and state requirements.  The City of Brookings conducts about 2,000 tests on drinking water every year. A copy of our latest drinking water quality report can be obtained at Water Quality Report or by calling the Brookings Chief Treatment Plants Operator at (541) 412-0424. 

What is the sodium content of the drinking water?   

Our latest test shows that the sodium content of the city of Brookings water is at 8.34 MG/L (milligrams per liter or parts per million).

Is fluoride naturally found in the water in Brookings or is it added?

Fluoride is found naturally in the water at well below State and Environmental Protection Agency standards.  The maximum contaminant level is 4 MG/L.  Our latest test shows: Non-detected at 0.1 MG/L.  We have the capability to add fluoride to the drinking water but we do not do so. 

Is Brookings water hard or soft?

Our water is soft.

Is it safe to use tap water in my fish tanks? 

It is safe if you first check the chlorine level with a chlorine test kit that you can buy at most pet or pool supply stores.  Most people let the water stand overnight uncovered before putting it into the tank or fish into the water.  This allows the chlorine in the water to dissipate. Please check with your pet store for further details about what chlorine level is acceptable for your fish.

Can water cause hair to turn green?  

Yes, some hair dyes will react with the chlorine in the water.  You need to consult your hairdresser for more information.

WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT FAQs

Who can I talk to about questions on my water or sewer billing?

Call the Administrative Services Department at 469-1125.

What should I do if my sewer backs up? 

First ascertain if it is your drain line to the city's main that is plugged.  If it is clear, during the work day, it is best to call City Hall (469-1125) so they can call the Public Works crew on the radio.  After hours call the Brookings Police Department (469-3118) and they will call a Public Works employee to investigate the blockage.