Here are answers to questions new neighbors often ask. We hope they’ll help your move to this neighborhood go more smoothly.

What should I know about the Westminster Playground?

Between 1996 and 2001, WNA planned, found funding for, and oversaw the renovation of the Westminster Playground. WNA volunteers maintain the playground without assistance from any government agency. The playground is open from 8 AM to 8 PM. If you want to help, contact Lynn Johnson at president@wnadc.org.

My Memories of the Westminster Playground Renovation by Chuck Baxter details the creation of the Westminster Playground.

Do I need to pick up after my dog?

When you walk your dog in the neighborhood, please pick up after it. There’s a receptacle outside the front gate to the playground where you can deposit you dog’s waste.  Animals are not permitted in the Westminster Playground unless they are service animals.

How do I contact the police?

Call 911 for emergencies. Call 311 for non-emergencies.

Who do I call in case of a fire?

Call 911 in case of a fire or medical emergency.

When should I put my garbage and recycle bin out for collection?

• TRASH — Collected Tuesday and Friday mornings. Bag and tie your trash, keep the lid of your green can closed, and never leave bags on the ground: that attracts rats.
• RECYCLING — Collected Tuesday mornings. Put recyclables in your blue can loose, not bagged, and flatten cardboard.
• Put your cans out no earlier than 6:30 pm the night before collection (and no later than 6:00 am on collection day), and take them back onto your property by 8:00 pm on collection day. See our Trash Procedures page for details, including what goes where.
• If you need a garbage can or recycle bin, call 311 and request one.
• Schedule pick up of bulk items that won’t fit in your garbage can (such as furniture and appliances) by calling 311.

Who should I call if I need help with or have a complaint about city services?

If you need help with or want to complain about city services, call the Citywide Call Center at 311. They will take a complaint and/or refer you to the correct city agency. Be sure to ask for a complaint number so you can follow up later.

What permits do I need if I replace windows or remodel the outside of my house?

Since we’re located in an historic district, any replacement of windows, or other exterior renovations to your house must be approved by the DC Historic Preservation Office (part of the DC Office of Planning). Most exterior work also needs a permit from the DC Department of Buildings.

We welcome you to the neighborhood and are confident you’ll find it to be an enjoyable and warm community. We hope you’ll take time to join the Westminster Neighborhood Association and help maintain our community so that it can remain the pleasant and safe place that only neighbors working together can provide.