About Us
Established in 1984, Permits West, Inc. has spent more than 40 years guiding projects through the complex regulatory landscape of tribal, federal, and state lands. From our headquarters in Santa Fe, we’ve built a reputation for practical, reliable permitting and compliance services that help projects move from concept to completion.
While oil and gas has long been our foundation, our expertise extends far beyond. Over the years, we’ve supported development of power lines, mining operations, roads, cemeteries, shopping centers, cell towers, solar farms, and more. If it requires a permit, right-of-way, or environmental clearance, chances are we’ve done it—and done it well.
As a small, independent firm, we are responsive, experienced, and deeply invested in the communities and landscapes we serve. That’s why clients across industries turn to Permits West for clear guidance, strong relationships with regulators, and results that stand the test of time.
Brian Wood
Founder & Senior Permitting Specialist
Brian Wood founded Permits West in 1984 and has spent four decades guiding projects across the American West through complex permitting processes. With deep technical knowledge and hands-on experience at every stage of rights-of-way and environmental compliance, Brian has worked closely with federal, state, tribal, and local agencies to bring projects from concept to approval. His career began as a Natural Resource Specialist with the Bureau of Land Management in Utah, a role that gave him a unique perspective on land use and regulation.
Today, as Founder and Senior Permitting Specialist, Brian continues to apply his unmatched expertise to support clients and mentor the Permits West team.
Brian holds a B.A. from the University of Virginia and a Master’s from the University of Wyoming.
Mike Deutsch
President & Project Director
As President and Project Director of Permits West, Mike Deutsch provides both strategic leadership and technical oversight for the company’s work on federal, state, and tribal lands. With more than 20 years of experience in geospatial analysis, project management, and logistics, Mike has supported a wide range of projects—from public utilities and energy development to large-scale infrastructure.
He has built his career through decades of mapping and fieldwork across the Southwest and earlier in West Africa, experience that gives him both technical depth and cultural perspective. Mike is committed to building on Permits West’s 40-year legacy while expanding its reach into new industries and opportunities.
Mike earned a Bachelor’s in Environmental Policy from Brock University (Canada) and a Master’s in Natural Resource Management and International Studies from the University of Wyoming.
Martha Jackson
Vice President
As Vice President of Permits West, Martha Jackson co-leads the firm’s operations and project management alongside Mike Deutsch. With a career spanning accounting, office management, and client services in New York, New Jersey, and Wyoming, Martha brings a strong organizational foundation to the company.
Known as Permits West’s “jack of all trades,” she manages financial operations, oversees client accounts, supports fieldwork when needed, and provides editorial oversight to ensure accuracy in reporting. Martha’s versatility and steady leadership help keep projects on track and clients well-supported.
Martha served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in West Africa and holds a B.A. in Government and Classical Studies from Hamilton College.
