terra incognita (n)
an unknown, unexplored region; territory that has not been mapped or documented

is a common question that plagues every resident in the Baltimore metro area at some point in time. Not the "How do I make a lemon meringue pie," or "How do I change a flat tire," but "How do I get this trash in the alley picked up, " or "How do I know when I need a permit to work on my house, and where do I get it?"

Believe it or not many answers are online. Below are just a few links to help in your search. We will be adding more in time - any suggestions and recommendations are welcome.

You can call 311, or 443.263.2220, or go the the City of Baltimore City Services website. Not only trash problems, but you'll find answers to dozens of common problems you may face in your neighborhood including animal matters, abandon motor vehicles, permits, education and many, many more.

There's no way to just look at a building and tell who owns it ...unless there's a pretty sign that reads "The Smith Family" or something as such. But if you see a bricked, boarded or blocked up building you clearly won't see a sign placed on it as if they are a proud owner of blight on the community. One quick way to see who owns a property is by going to the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation Real Property Data Search.