Whitewood was incorporated as a city in 1888, about six months after the first homes and businesses were built – or were relocated by mule from Crook City.  Today Whitewood is divided into three wards. A mayor is elected by city-wide vote every two years, and each ward elects two members for a six-member city council. City council members are elected for two-year terms, as well.

Council meetings are scheduled the first and third Mondays of each month, 7 pm at City Hall, 1025 Meade Street. Agendas and minutes are available on the city's website, and published in the Black Hills Pioneer. 

City departments are Finance, Library, Planning and Zoning, Police, and Public Works. The city budget is available here. 

Whitewood Volunteer Fire Department